I was banded with the Hospital Group on the 26th January 2010.
I started enquiring about my band on the 16th November 2009 via email and spoke to Emma Beech who was very responsive and answered all questions I had. She had a band herself and was able to give me a very personal perspective.
They had a special offer - if you are banded before the end of January 2010. The first consultation fee is £50.00 with them, and to book a procedure you need to pay a £1,000 deposit, the remainder of the balance will be due 2 weeks prior to the op.
My consultation date was 17th January 2010 with op date originally 24th January 2010.
My first consultation on the 17th January was an absolute nightmare and I was shocked. The consultant I saw was incredibly rude and I felt like I was herded in there and rushed back out again. On the same day I saw Emma Beech who I had been in contact with via email and she was very nice. But still, it left a sour taste in my mouth.
Anyways, due to complications over my BMI, it meant my op couldn't be done on the 24th at Dolan Park (Emma told me they only have facilities for patients with BMI under 50 - ppl over that need intensive care).
She managed to "outsource" my op to Spire Hospital in Manchester (a 4 hr drive for me) which I didn't mind - I wanted it done before I went back to work on the 1st Feb. New date 26th January.
My surgeons name was (Mr Alan Li) who was absolutely fantastic.
I was asked to check in to the hospital at 7am but when we got there they weren't expecting me til 11am. It turns out I was 8th on a list of 9 patients so my father and I waited til 5.30 in the room til I went down. Not very pleased with that but since I suspect I was tagged on to his list at the last minute I could hardly complain.
The package I paid for "included 28 days aftercare" - and despite asking the Hospital Group exactly what this is - I haven't heard anything yet.
I was told twice that a nutritionist would contact me but nothing yet.
I have also asked whether there are any support groups in my area, and again have heard nothing.
Overall, I'd NOT RECOMMEND the Hospital Group if you are the sensitive type. I'd have liked to have been treated WAY better at first consultation considering the thousands I'd paid but wasn't, and since the op I would have felt abandoned if I wasn't the kind of person I am.
As it is, I am constantly researching lap band information wherever I can get it (you tube has been extremely helpful) and am just glad I got the op done.
Do not go with THG if you want your money's worth.
I say again though, my surgeon was extremely pleasant, informative and helpful, and NOT part of the Hospital Group.
My whole story to date is here.
Good luck with those looking for a surgeon - the only advice I can give is this:
Do your own research, do not rely on people to offer it.
Best wishes
Sam :thumbup:
