Alberta Doctors Willing to take on Self-pay Sleevers?

[blackfalls 26]

I am going to get sleeved on September 10th in Mexico. Because I'm self-paying, I have no aftercare/follow-up set in place. I am hoping to find a doctor (in case my family doctor, with whom I only have a couple months history with, doesn't approve of my surgery and refuses to treat me) that has knowledge of bariatric surgeries and will facilitate appropriate follow-up/labwork/nutritionists.

I am in Red Deer and willing to drive to Edmonton or Calgary for a great doctor. Anyone have suggestions?

[BarNone 19]

I am meeting a doctor in calgary at the new hospitals family medicine practice this week. I will let you know how it goes. I was sleeved in great falls 6 weeks ago.

[blackfalls 26]

Thanks BarNone! How was your experience in Great Falls? How much did it cost?

[BarNone 19]

My experience in great falls was good. I used the same dr who did my lapband. I had to have it removed so he told me about the sleeve and I converted. I didn't have success with the band, but I sure had a lot of problems with it.

Cost is more than Mexico but at my size flying there wasn't an option and my family helped out with the cost. Now remember this cost includes a doctor fee for lapband removal and extra OR time for the same reason. So my cost was 7000 to the doctor and just over 10,000 to the hospital. He did it at the clinic hospital and so instead of being 25 grand, it was around 18. A lot of money- yes! But at over 400lbs life is just not very liveable. I am nervous to see my new family doctor tomorrow, but hopefully she will get on board without being judgemental. I need to get my Vitamins checked.

I will update you about that experience when I get a moment.

If you have any other question let me know, I am open to sharing about my experience.

Many blessings

[blackfalls 26]

BarNone, I always hear that it is better to ask for forgiveness than permission so the fact you already had the surgery might be a good thing. Good luck tomorrow!

[blackfalls 26]

I have some good news. I told my family doctor about the surgery and she was on board! She had never heard of VSG but I was very knowledgeable about everything and explained it to her. She is actually curious to see how it will all turn out! Plus she ordered me a ton of bloodwork and said that if I come back in a few days she will give me a copy to take to Mexico. Also, she will take care of my wounds post-op.

I am so happy and relieved and glad I didn't keep this from her.