JoAnn99

Hi Tina, I had my inverted gastric sleeve with Dr Kim 4 years ago this month. I lost 75lbs and have kept it off since then. I would highly recommend him and his practice. As mentioned by someone else on the post, he has several different programs depending on your insurance so I would give them a call to see what they can do for you. When I had my surgery it was in the hospital but I know he has his own surgery facility now. I've heard great things about it from other patients in our support group. The support group is one of the best benefits of having my surgery with him. We have a private FB page for just his patients and it is run by patients. We organize local events like going to 5Ks, going bowling, dancing, monthly breakfasts and dinners. I know you are in OK so it might be hard to do those things but we also have lots of online exercise challenges like last month we did a daily plank challenge and this month we have a Abs/Squats challenge. Some of the remote people on the page have even found other patients in their area and been able to arrange meet-up events. It is a very active group, friendly and non-judgmental. I see Dr Kim and his staff once a year for my checkups but I talk to my fellow patients every day and some of them have become like family. Whatever you decide, I wish you the best! This is a scary decision at first but it was one of the best decisions of my life. Best wishes, JoAnn

Hi Crystalsleeve - Dr Kim did my sleeve in Jan 2012. You have made a great choice with him. Th BU class covers what to expect during the pre-op and post-op. Since you have already been doing liquids, you pretty much have that down. That is one of the hardest parts. The class will help you understand what to expect right after surgery and the post-op diet you'll be on for the first 6 weeks. Take advantage of the class to ask any questions you have. They are more than happy to answer all your questions. I think we have all had our doubts as we approach the date. I'm what is considered a light weight, less than 100lbs to lose, and so I kept trying to convince myself that I didn't need the surgery and it was too drastic. I was up very late the night before trying to talk myself out of it but I am sooooo glad i didn't. Losing weight is hard but keeping it off is even harder. The sleeve is the best tool I could have given myself in this battle to get my health back and stay healthy. Don't let fear and doubt talk you out of something that you really want. Dr Kim also has an amazing support group that meets monthly and online. I've met so many great friends through that and they have helped to keep me inspired and motivated. I hope to see you at a support meeting soon!!