I don't know about Dr Wendel but I have dealt with Dr Kevin Kelly and all I can say is he is a wonderful doctor.

I haven't had WLS yet but due to a medical reason I had to have a panniculectomy in Dec 09. He was my doctor. I did end up having a major complication (one of my drains came out too soon because the stitch came undone) and ended up having more surgeries. Overall he was a nice doctor and very honest.

I've put off WLS basically because I didn't think my body could handle another surgery after the 14 months of hospitalizations and surgeries.

Bruce and Holly you are both soo right! I have to decide just how important my health is to ME. I have to just do it!
Thank You Both!

Let me preface this by saying that I smoke for 20+ years and took chantix to help me stop also.  I have been smoke free since July 2007.

No matter how many drugs or alternatives you try to stop smoking, you will not stop until you are ready.  Make that decision and stick with it.  The bad has to out weigh the good or you will never convince yourself to stick with it.  The same will be true to achieve a healthier lifestyle, preop and post op.

I will be having my VGS with Dr. Boyce at Parkwest.  I know I will find this out soon enough, but was curious, did you have to pay anything to the hospital before surgery?  I have to come up with a good chunk to Dr. Boyce, so I was wondering if I'm going to need to budget for more money before hand?

Thanks!

Thanks Holly....I do know my surgeon does require me to have quit 30 days before surgery. That is why I am trying to quit now and not in October or November. I don't have a surgery date yet and have had 4 visits of 6 so far.

Thanks for the luck.