Question:
I am seeking approval for the BPD/DS with Dr. K in Delano, however, I am hoping that

he will do what he stated at orientation which is begin performing lap procedures. I don't want an open scar am I crazy? Also, if he can't realistically perform this procedure (for i.e. not enough training or not in good enough time frame) can I ask for a referral to an out of network Dr., such as Rabkin? Third, what are Rabkin's fees for? Do you think my insurance will go for it. Dr. K is the only one in Delano Med Group who does BYpass.    — A V. (posted on April 20, 2001)

April 20, 2001
Hello. you didnt list if this was Delano Ca. or not? I had open rny wls on 11/13/00 in Fresno, Ca. there are lots of great doctors in fresno. Are you preferring that type of wls? My incision is only 3 inches long. lap rny's are great too. email me ok? [email protected]
   — LISA K.

April 21, 2001
I have heard wonderful things about Dr. K., and would not hesitate to have the open procedure with him. I would not be hung up on the lap vs. open option. I am fortunate enough to live in the San Francisco area, and used Drs. Jossart/Rabkin. I went with lap because they are quite experienced (Dr. Jossart is the Chief of Laproscopic Surgery at the hospital). I would be a bit hesitant to do lap with someone who didn't have the experience, and would not have traveled just to get lap. The open is a bit more awkward initially, but that's it. The scar fades dramatically after 6 - 8 months. With respect to your other questions, you can ask for a referral, but I would doubt your insurance will approve it since you already have a surgeon in plan capable of doing the surgery. Dr. Rabkin's fees are described as being for his after care program (currently they are $3,000 above and beyond whatever insurance pays). Please be aware that I believe he is now charging most patients up front (except for those in his own medical group - Brown & Toland), and then you need to seek reimbursement from insurance. I believe he charges $11,000 up front, and then you're on your own with insurance. - Kate -
   — kateseidel

April 21, 2001
I just had an "open" BPD/DS on 4/11 and my incision is only 6" long. I had a LAP procedure done in Aug. 2000 and I can honestly say it was easier having the open in regards to pain and moving around. Instead of 5 or 6 little incisions all hurting while I twist or turned I only had one. Check with the Dr. on how big his "open" is. I had no drains when I can home or anything.
   — Linda M.

April 23, 2001
One thing that preops dont consider is the possibility of plastic surgery after you lose your weight. I've known many, many Lap postop patients who didn't want the scar, who, two years later, get abdominoplasty, and/or breast lifts and wind up with scars from breast bone to pelvic & hip to hip. If you can get approved with Dr. K... I would NOT hesitate to have surgery. You will not find better care ANYWHERE! Their team of surgeon, nurses, clinical coordinators, nutritionists, are the best I have ever seen. (I had surgery with Dr. Anthone in L.A.) I love his care, but again, nothing is as good as the team in Delano!! (http://www.mywls.com/discus) --->>
   — [Deactivated Member]

September 9, 2001
Although it's been 6 months since you asked this question, I just have to post because of the irony of the situation: I am in the exact opposite predicament of you--stuck with Rabkin because of The Network, but wanting Keshishian because he and his staff are SOOOOO WONDERFUL!!! Forget the scar; go where you will be best cared for--Delano.
   — Chris T.