Follow up care in the U.S.

[BrandNewMe17 3]

Has anyone NOT received any follow up care in the U.S after surgery? Is following the MX doctors' post op instructions enough? I'm trying to schedule in early June and my primary doc is just not on board whenever I discuss WLS with her. I've discussed this with her over my last 2 annual checkups, and the conversations always go back to her telling me that people sometimes gain the weight back, and wanting to refer me to a nutritionist, or suggesting Weight Watchers. Been there, done that. Now I'm afraid that if I have the surgery and return home, I'm on my own, and this is my reason for not scheduling yet. I have struggled for so long with the ups and down of my weight / weight issues, and was once so excited to get this done. Now I feel like I'm back at square one, because I'm feeling like I won't have any support once I get back home and that scares me.

[920amy 409]

I was afraid too of going to Mexico, what if I had complications, what if my PCP wouldn't see me anymore, what if what if, and I finally decided, what if I don't do this surgery, what if I just keep going down the same road...? What if I keep getting bigger and bigger, and I realized, if I had to change PCP's, so be it! If I had complications, then I would get treatment. I used Dr. Lopez through ALighterMe.com, I had a great experience, I am 6 months post op yesterday, and I am already down 81 pounds. I have not looked back a single time. I didn't tell my PCP until after I had the surgery, and he was actually excited for me! I have had my blood work done several times, it was covered by my insurance, I was lucky not to have any complications, and I have used these boards as a serious crutch/learning place to keep on track. Good luck whatever you decide!! I took the plunge, and am SO happy I did!

[ASKSARAH - Sleeve 256]

I have not had an issue with receiving aftercare. The wonderful thing about this surgery is the lack of need for after care. You may need a metabolic blood work panel just to see how your doing. But overall unless you have complications you shouldn't need follow up care.

I had my surgery in Mexico came home have been losing weight my B-12 and other Vitamin levels are all on target. I have yet to see a doctor for anything.

If your PCP isn't on board keep interviewing until you find one that is. You can find a new doctor its your right.

Make the appointment go have the surgery and enjoy your new body.

[Naija2atl 30]

Time for a new pcp

[serenity1959 67]

How about your gyno? My PCP is not a fan of bariatric surgery and if she won't do my follow-up care, I am pretty sure my gyno will.

[circa 333]

If your PCP won't see you anymore, you probably want a new one anyway.

Sent from my iPhone using VST

[Bowgirl 19]

I had the same worry also. I went to Mexico and other than one of my incisions developing a hematoma I haven't had any complications. I have been to my primary care dr's nurse practitioner. She took the time to research the sleeve and has been a great resource to me. There are medical practitioners out there that will be supportive of your decision. Good luck!

[Kristen125 18]

Like everyone else, I will be seeing my PCP for any blood work and just to make sure I stay on a healthy track. If I develop any problems, I plan on going to the ER. They won't turn me away.

[WEARMYHEARTONMYSLEEVE 13]

Find another Dr. with knowledge and understanding

[Shrinking_Lola 54]

I agree with everyone else, find a new PCP. That's just crazy she isn't supportive. How discouraging, but than you have to remember You PAY for these people to help you, so YOU have the final say if you want their support or not. You'll be okay :-) don't let this tiny thing get in your way from a better version of yourself!!

[superstartover 101]

I didnt tell my pcp before and scheduled an appointment with her for tests i came armed with my surgical report and my doctors book dr alvarez gastric.sleeve which i gave to her. The nurse was interested and seeing that i had lost weight my doctor who assured me that no out of network procedures would be followed by her said losing the weight is the most important thing. I was like the hmmm...when i was so worried for nothing.

[dork 114]

I am just now scheduling my surgery for next month. I had an appointment this morning with my doctor and took all of the info in with me I printed out...stuff on the hospital, the doctors credentials, info on the surgery pre and post op. He knows I have been battling my weight for the 20 years i have been going to him. He said to go for it....he said the benefits outway the risk. My doctor is a health nut and has started a program for the town to loose weight and walk. He wants to see me 1 month post op.....find someone who will help you!!!!