it went well-INOVA Patients needed

ok guys and gals, the one-on-one went great. I am still undecided on which procedure, but im leaning more towards RNY. Are there any people in the NOVA area? I would love to meet peeps that had surgery at INOVA Fair Oaks, and if possible with Dr. Moazzez. I need to make some friends during this journey. i have lots of questions. thanks in advance. ~moni

Hi Moni I had surgery through Dr M's office with Dr Chebli....but my good dr went and moved to WA state, so my after care is with Dr M...and I really enjoy him!! My sister had surgery with him and is doing excellent!! I can answer any questions you may have to the best of my ability..... As for the RNY, my personal opinion is the more weight you need to loose, the more you should look at RNY....say a BMI of 45 or higher....for the band, anything under 45 would be fine....My BMI was something like 57? I dunno, I started at 344, and got down to 160, and now I am bouncing between 160 and 170 and have for a year....this was the best thing I have ever done for myself....and my kids..... Lemme know if there is anything I can do for ya...good luck in your journey!! Dianna

thanks, did you have RNY? was it laproscopic? how often do you meet with Dr. M?

Moni- I'm in NOVA, my surgeon was Dr. Anez though. Have you been told about the support groups in the area? If you go to Dr. Anez's site it has the times. They're held in Fair Oaks and will start in Reston (at the hospitals). http://www.obesitysurgerycenter.net/events.php If you have any questions, let me know. I had Open RNY, a mini version where my scar is only about 3-4 inches long. Take care! Christina S.

hi christina, were was your surgery?

I had my surgery at INOVA Fair Oaks. Christina S

I am guessing by 1-on-1 you m3qn your initial consult with your surgeon? Lois

Hey Moni, I had LAP-RNY done with Dr. M at Inova Fair Oaks on Tuesday...I came home this afternoon. My surgery was very uneventful..Thank God! Dr. M is an amazing man, everyone that I met through the hospital only had nice things to say. He is very professional and has great bedside manor. I would highly recommend him. I like to call him my McDreamy(hopefully you watch Greys Anatomy) Anyway, feel to ask any and every question. Take Care, Courtney

thanks for the advice, im pretty sure im going to go through with it.He is McDreamy, or rather McSteamy. Im so glad your surgery went well. Maybe we can meet in person in the near future. I need all the support I can get. ~moni

Moni, I am in NOVA, but had the DS with Dr. Elariny at INOVA Fairfax in March, 2003. I usually post on the PS board, but lurk on the VA and DS boards. Does your surgeon have a support group? My surgeon's support group was where I met many people who have helped me pre and post op. While I no longer attend regularly, I met people and forged friendships that have lasted. We still do activities together. Not only did these folks become my friends, but they have helped me throughout the process. Even now, those who had surgery prior to me have helped with expectations this far out. Best wishes on your journey, Sharon