Taking the first step

[Butterdog 0]

Hello all!

I'm a newbie and have been thinking about have WLS for some time. I'm attending a weight loss seminar at IU Goshen next week and will hopefully have more insight into my next steps. Unfortunately my insurance doesn’t cover the surgery so I’ll be paying out of pocket, but they will cover any complications that arise during or post op. I’m not sure which surgery will be best for me but I know I have to do something. If anyone as any recommendations on surgeons or hospitals in Northern Indiana or the surrounding areas please that would be fantastic.

[PdxMan 4,292]

Welcome to BariatricPal!

Choosing a surgery type is a highly personal choice. You will find many folks here with impassioned opinions on why their own personal choice is the best. My recomendation is to research each option thoroughly noting the complication rates, success rates and personal tolerance for what is being done for each option.

• If you cannot handle the thought of having a foreign object in your body, then the band is not for you.
• If you cannot handle the thought of having your intestines re-routed, then the bypass is not for you
• If you cannot handle having 85% of your stomach removed, then the vertical sleeve is not for you

There are other procedures out there, too, so be sure to do your homework. This is a major decision and for some of the procedures, will change your relationship with food forever.

I also was self-pay and opted to have the sleeve done in Las Vegas by Dr Thomas Umbach. It was $10,400. I would definately recommend him.

[2muchfun 8,927]

I agree with PDX above. Here's a video that may help you decide. Your doctor should also be a mentor to you as well:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VmvWFu79Ik#t=99

[☠carolinagirl☠ 18,721]

pdx....you need to put this on each newbie thread........its SPOT ON

Welcome to BariatricPal!

Choosing a surgery type is a highly personal choice. You will find many folks here with impassioned opinions on why their own personal choice is the best. My recomendation is to research each option thoroughly noting the complication rates, success rates and personal tolerance for what is being done for each option.

• If you cannot handle the thought of having a foreign object in your body, then the band is not for you.
• If you cannot handle the thought of having your intestines re-routed, then the bypass is not for you
• If you cannot handle having 85% of your stomach removed, then the vertical sleeve is not for you

There are other procedures out there, too, so be sure to do your homework. This is a major decision and for some of the procedures, will change your relationship with food forever.

I also was self-pay and opted to have the sleeve done in Las Vegas by Dr Thomas Umbach. It was $10,400. I would definately recommend him.