Question:
I what to change surgeon

I have taken all my pre-test, but my surgeon is too busy, so I have decide to change surgeon. Can my new surgeon request my records from my previous surgeon since I already taken all the necessary test. my test are only 2 weeks old. Also do you think these surgeon will know each other and do you think my surgeon will get mad at me if I got rid of him. Thank you May God bless all of you    — blank first name B. (posted on June 15, 2001)

June 15, 2001
I also thought that all of these appointments were taking forever. I started with my first informational group meeting in February. I have met with dietitians, social workers, physical therapists, and I taken a "freedom from fat" class, required by my insurance HMO. I have got an appointment to see my surgeon on July 6th. But like the previous lady said~ if you read some of the profiles you will find that this whole process seems to move slow no matter where you live. As it was explained to me, the hospital has only so many operating rooms that has to be shared with ALL the sergeons in the hospital~ not just the surgeons doing weight loss surgery. Just remember~ good things come to he who waits.
   — Kathi C.

June 15, 2001
I too am hating how long "this journey" takes. I look at it this way, if I have to wait a long time to see a doctor I think that is at least a partial indication that the doctor is probably a better than average, good, very good or hopefully excellent physician. It sounds to me like your original surgeon is in your estimation "too busy" because he is in the high end of the 1-10 category. I want my surgeon to be a 10 no matter how long I have to wait to get in to see him. I have said before, this journey is truly a lesson in patience. I would not want to have a surgeon perform this surgery on me that I could have gotten in to see too quickly. We all get impatient whether our journey is four months, six months, or even a year or longer. I wish you well and I hope you make the deciion that is in your best interest in the long run.
   — Judith A.

June 15, 2001
I think that one of the answers to your question was alittle harsh to say you sound like you are buying a TV. What you are doing is being afraid, making up your mind to do this, and wanting it soon so as not to have time to change your mind. In this day and age, we are used to everything happening so fast, I know but, there is a reason for all of this waiting I assure you. Hasn't this wait at least given you time to look through this site and others and get the whole "scoop" on what to expect? Hasn't the waiting given you time also, to reflect on your relationships and how they might change or get better? I was approved and had surgery within one month. No more, just a month. This gave me little time 2 years ago to research and talk to others. I didn't even find this site till after surgery. wish I had because it might have given me alittle insight into what was in store for me. I wish now, that I "did" have extra time. Think of this as a part of the surgery, as a part of growing emotionally beforehand. Take time to look closely at relationships, work, and basic living and make a plan to change what you don't like after the surgery. You will have alot of self confidence after surgery and this is a great time to get to know what YOU want rather than doing for others like I bet you have in the past.(most obese people seem to be the most loving and helpful people generally putting themselves last and I believe it's from lack of self esteem). I sincerely think that the waiting time is good for everyone. I personally went through all of this alittle too fast looking back now.
   — Barbara H.

June 15, 2001
I know that it's frustrating to wait for surgery once you've made up your mind, but that time can be used productively. Use it to learn as much as you can about your surgery. Visit the directory for your state and see what your peers have to say about your doctor. Also, keep in mind that insurance companies can take awhile to approve, and this could be why your doctor is unable to set up a date for you at this time. Unless you feel your doctor is just blowing you off or incompetent, I'd give him a chance to set up your surgery date and testing etc. If you start over with a new doctor, the wait will very likely be just as long or even longer because most require any testing to be fairly new. Also, a word of advice. One of my co-workers had the surger done and managed to get everthing done "quickly" (must of been a slow time at the doctor's office), well she didn't research surgery AT ALL and came out of it thinking she could eat what she wanted and still lose weight (*please note* she was told the risks, but had her own ideas about what she could handle). She got a big reality check afterwards and has regrets about not looking into this more than she did. Please, use your time wisely. Learning about surgery is very time consuming. Once you have a date, you'll spend all your free time doing more tests, make arrangements at work to take off, and making arrangements with your family. All of this takes time. Good Luck!
   — [Anonymous]

June 16, 2001
You know, sometimes anonymous is a little harsh. Anyway, just wanted to chime in. I got real frustrated too. In my case it wasn't the surgeon, it was the insurance company. However, this allowed me time to do more research. At one point I actually talked myself out of it altogether. I'm glad I had that time because now I am much more secure in my decision. From your profile I see that you believe in God. Maybe this is His way of giving you time to find comfort in your decision. Also, to learn a little patience. It's fine to vent, and we're here to listen, but don't jump surgeons so quickly. It might take longer with someone new.
   — kcanges

June 16, 2001
If you're not comfortable with your surgeon, don't think twice about changing your surgeon, and yes, you have the right to request your records, however, you may have to start your insurance process all over again, and your insurance company legally has 30 days to review your case. It would be advisable to ask your insurance company. I have changed doctors in the past and they all have mutual respect for each other's practice so I would venture to say you don't have to worry about your current surgeon being upset. Good luck to you..
   — Elizabeth D.

June 16, 2001
When I started looking into surgery, I took the approach that this was not an "event" like a diet is, but a complete lifestyle change. I was not anxious about when my date would be. I read and researched while I was waiting. Like others have said, you will probably have a longer wait with another surgeon. I read your profile and it seems that you are pleased with the competency of your surgeon. If that is the case, why switch? It may be difficult to find another surgeon to accept Medicaid. I would recommend staying put. If you do your research on this site, you will find that some people have waited much much longer than you. I read in your profile that you had an appointment with your surgeon on May 30th and were hoping for a surgery date in the beginning of June.(?) Getting a quick turn-around date happens rarely. Most have at least a 2-3 month wait after receiving a date. I know that you are anxious, but a dose of reality will help.
   — [Anonymous]