Question:
Just curious...

How many people out there have/had a surgeon or bariatric center that did not provide any means of support post-op, or any follow up visits? I'm just curious because it seems there are a lot of surgeons that perform the surgery and then their patients are off on there own. If I was to choose a bariatric center or surgeon I would make sure they followed up with me for a certain period of time post-op.    — Kara J. (posted on January 10, 2004)

January 10, 2004
Well my surgeon sees most people several times in the first year after surgery, depending on the situation. We have our own local support group and if we need nutritional advise the nutritionist at the hospital takes care of that aspect. I wouldn't want to go to a surgeon that didn't even have follow up visits, to me that is wrong!
   — Saxbyd

January 10, 2004
there are alot of doctors that do wls and don't have any form of support after. i think this just sets people up to fail. without proper information to go by and support to help you when you need it the most,how are you supposed to work your tool to the best? i think this is where you hear alot of the bad outcome stories. since wls has become so popular in the media now there are alot of local support groups. i don't think i would even choose a doctor who only cut me and sent me out the door on my merry way.
   — franbvan

January 10, 2004
Whereas for most surgeries, you may have 1 follow up visit with the surgeon, WLS is very different. Good WLS surgeons and bariatric centers will have a post-op program, see you several times the first year to monitor. I would shy away from those who do not.
   — Cindy R.

January 11, 2004
My surgeon not only provides excellent pre-op support, but also provides seperate post-operative support group meetings for pre-op band, post-op band, pre-op rny and post-op rny. All are welcome to pre-op meetings regardless of what type of surgery. She see's patients at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, 18 months, 24 months and EVERY YEAR FOR 20 YEARS with no additional charge. Support groups are a great source of information and, well support (lol), as well as here at AMOS. Hope this helps. Lap RNY 12-29-03 242/???
   — Keri P.

January 14, 2004
Kara, IMHO, I wouldn't even consider ANY surgeon that does not have impeccable credentials and MOST IMPORTANT, an Aftercare Program for his WLS patients. My surgeon(s) have an aftercare program and you MUST attend at least 4 meetings/sessions after the surgery. There is a commitment involved. At first, when I heard about it, I had the attitude, "I don't think so...nobody tells me when to come to the doctor or any type of meeting"...Wrong attitude! I'm told it's best to choose a board certified bariatric surgeon who specializes specifically in bariatric surgery and not a general surgeon. Also, makes sure they don't just abandon you or treat you like a stepchild. Your life and the money you pay does NOT deserve it! Best wishes to you! HTH!! Proximal LAP RNY 9/3/02 5'2" 265/138/115-126 Hadiyah McCutcheon, a.k.a.~~~
   — yourdivaness