Question:
Surgeons wants me to go off base and have the surgery in this state.

The surgeon on base wants me to have the operation here in New Mexico (where my husband retired) instead of sending me to another state. According to him, We require a lot of after care and he would rather I have somebody close by. Is this true? PS There's a good doctor stationed at Wilford Hall, San Antonio, TX that I was interested in for the surgical operation.    — licia T. (posted on May 26, 1999)

May 26, 1999
I am from Virginia, and had the surgery in California. I stayed in a hotel, with one family member, for about 2 weeks after the surgery. It is a good idea to have people around you immediately after the surgery. The decision on where to have the surgery should depend on you. What are you comfortable with? Are there reasons you would want the surgery in a specific place (i.e., to have a specific surgeon, process, etc.)? Discuss the pros and cons with your doctor, and make the decision yourself. After all, it's you who will be going under the knife, and you should be as mentally comfortable as possible. Good luck!
   — Elizabeth W.

May 26, 1999
For gastric bypass (RNY) you will probably see your surgeon at one week post-op, then 2 weeks post-op, then depending on how you are doing on a month to month basis. If you have complications, then obviously it will be more often. I made these visits mentioned to my surgeon 4 1/2 hrs. away. However, he turned me over to my pcp close by right away for any other problem, including pain meds, bladder infection following surgery, etc. I think you could go to the Dr. in Texas, and make,.. after a month or so all post-ops to your local pcp or surgeon. It is also a longer and harder process of insurance if you deal witha civilian Dr. And there will be some out of pocket expense.
   — Linda O.

May 26, 1999
I had the surgery while working as a contractor at Gunter Airforce Base. I left to have the surgery at the University of Minnesota. I was in the hospital for 9 days longer than necessary because I had a fever. After leaving the hospital I stayed with my family locally for a month. Then I flew back to Alabama and took care of myself for the remainder of the time, until I returned back to the hospital after one year for a complete check-up. I have not had to return for any further follow-up visits for hte past 15 years. I do however see my primary care physician annually.
   — Bob M.

May 26, 1999
You do need quite a few follow-up appoinmtments. Maybe, he/she doesn't feel he/she can handle it. You need someone who is interested enough to follow you up and that can handle such a case. GOOD HEALTH Sheila
   — Sheila W.

May 26, 1999
You do need quite a few follow-up appoinmtments. Maybe, he/she doesn't feel he/she can handle it. You need someone who is interested enough to follow you up and that can handle such a case. GOOD HEALTH Sheila
   — Sheila W.

October 21, 2000
You are retired military. I suggest you check out Portsmouth Naval Hospital in Portsmouth, VA. Dr. Spencer is the best physician around. You will be extremely pleased with your choice. He attends our monthly support group meetings as well.
   — [Anonymous]