Question:
how come I have to wait up to 9 months just to have a consult w/the surgeon?

I have called alot of surgeons in my home state and their nurses treated me like I was just another #, or even better, a fatso looking for an easy way out. I have been told by the nurses that I have to wait up to 9 Months just to have a consultation with the surgeon. I've talked to so many people, read up on the pros and cons and thought about this whole thing for over a year. Yes, I can wait, but it's frustrating when you find out that you have to wait so long just to talk to the surgeon. Many people whom I've talked to say that they have only waited a tops of 3months for this procedure, even my primary was surprised at the lengthy wait. I'm wondering who and how popular this is? For me, this IS NOT an easy way out, but a new life long change for me and I'm ready. My mom is so worried about me having this surgery, she's afraid I'll die..according to her, it has a high death rate, for me, I don't believe it because I know so many who have had it done and who are currently in the first stages like me for the surgery.    — Jena C. (posted on April 21, 2002)

April 21, 2002
9 Months is not uncommon for a wait. Like you I researched long and hard then when I was ready and called a surgeon I had about the same time frame, but A few weeks later I was called to come in a few months earlier and after the process of getting Ins. Approval, I thought I would have to wait another few months for surgery, but the same day I got approval I was given a surgery date of a week later! Try checking around for other surgeons , but don't just choose a surgeon based on an early surgery date, you need to feel comfortable with the surgeon that you are working with also! As for their being a higher death rate for this surgery, It is simply not true. Our weight makes us a higher risk for ANY surgery! Best of luck in your journey!
   — Patricia R.

April 21, 2002
I understand completely how frustrating this can be. The wait seems like it will take forever. I had to wait 6 months to see my surgeon, and then another 2 for the surgery. At that point, his waiting list had over 100 waiting and over a year to just see him for the consult. He did increase his OR time and was able to double up on patients that he saw. I think that with a reputable surgeon, it is very common for the wait to be lengthy. I know that once you decide that you want WLS, you really don't want to wait anymore. But the wait is worth it for a good surgeon. Use the time to research more. There is ALWAYS more to learn about this surgery. There are so many details to get right. Learn about the vitamins and supplements that you will need for the rest of your life. Learn at what increments that the body can absorb these at a time. Start stocking up on these items. Get things ready for your hospital stay. Enjoy your Last Suppers. Looking back, the wait went by fast, but I know that at the time it just doesn't seem that way. With the time you will have before surgery, you will be really prepared. Go to a thrift store and pick up some 'next size down' shorts or pants. Get a couple sizes down, considering the season you will have surgery. There is lots that you can do, have fun doing it and learning in the process. And as far as the death rate is concerned, I do believe that it is .01% or .05%. Very very minute. Maybe someone can confirm the exact number for me. Enjoy your journey!!
   — Cheri M.

April 21, 2002
My suggestion would be to take the appointment and then call weekly just to see if an earlier opening has become available. I know that my surgeon occasionally has openings. As a matter a fact, he had a possible cancellation tomorrow. Good Luck... my prayers are with you =)
   — Beffy W.

April 21, 2002
The number I've always heard is nationally about 1/200 die. That's about .5% (one half of one percent). Don't freak out too much though (I'm preop, I should practice what I preach, lol). It seems to vary _widely_ by surgeons, and you would be wise to ask your surgeon very bluntly "have you had any fatalities, and if so, what were the causes?" About the nine month wait... the most important thing is a competent surgeon, true, but I wouldn't work with an office where I was just a number. How well can he really keep track of people if he is booked into kingdom come? And what about aftercare with your surgeon? Will you be waiting nine months to see him for that? If you're looking at RNY there are plenty of excellent surgeons out there, so you might want to shop around. But like the previous poster said, don't pick on just because the wait is short. I don't think having a long wait neccessarily means he's good though. It may just mean he's the only WLS doctor in a 75 mile radius. And about your mom.... do we have the same mom?? lol. Our mothers obviously love us and they're very worried about us. Don't shut your mom out though just because you don't like what she has to say. She may make you think of new concerns that you haven't before. And if possible, it's best to resolve any concerns you have before you go through with this. Fatality is the biggest concern for me too, but do your research, talk to other patients, grill the doctor, and find yourself an excellent surgeon. Best of luck! :)
   — [Deactivated Member]

April 21, 2002
The only time I see those huge waits are for schools or general surgeons. Have you checked into docs who do nothing BUT WLS? They don't have a "quota" to stay under, as many general surgeons do.
   — vitalady