Newbie

[MsSlim 0]

Hello everyone,

I'm a newbie to all of this. I'm so glad I found this forum. I just heard of the Sleeve procedure yesterday and I've done nothing but research it for the last 24 hours. I have signed up for a Baylor Hospital Information Class next week but would like to know based on your experiences what questions I should ask? Based on your discussions you all seemed to have utilized Dr. Baker (aka Dr. McHottie) and I'll check into that practice as well but just want to know what things you consider important points to have covered. Thanks in advance.

[TexasT 99]

I was a revision from the lap-band, so the questions I had would probably be different from yours. Dr. Barker was very good with explaining exactly what the surgery was once I started telling him I didn't like the band (gave it a good 3.5 yrs). I know Dr. Kim and Dr. Davidson have great reviews from others on this site for other DFW area docs. One doc I can tell you to steer clear of though is Dr. Glenn Ihde. New to WLS and very dishonest.

You'll want to know how long the doc thinks your post-op recovery will take, how often you should get labs taken to check that you're getting all the nutrients you need, if they have a support group (if you think you'd need it - Dr. Barker has one I know), what their schedule is regarding your post-op diet (how long on Clear Liquids, mushies, etc.), what his complication rate is, how many sleeves has he done, stuff like that.

Good luck on finding the right doc for you!

[MsSlim 0]

Thanks so much for the information especially about the physicians. So happy to see you so close to your goal. I appreciate your reply.

[MsSlim 0]

Hi Texas T

I hope u r still doing well. I did a consultation with Dr. Barker and it looks like I will be utilizing his services. I still like Dr. Nicholson's practice too but the process seems to be taking so long and Dr. Barker's office is so efficient and the process has already started. I will have all the insurance requirements completed by November and hopefully have the procedure by December. I had so many questions for both physicians and I appreciate that they both took their time and answered them all. I never felt rushed and I appreciate that with both physicians as this is a big step. I've also heard good things about Dr. C. Kennedy but I don't think I will pursue just because of timing but for anyone reading the post u may want to check her out but I did hear that she was very strict. Well all the best to u.