Taking the plunge

[Albus 129]

Hi All,

Being nearly 40 and fed up of being a fat bloke I’ve decided to get myself some WLS. Thinking sleeve as don’t like the re-plumbing idea!

My GP has referred me to the NHS bariatric service but I can’t face the wait so am looking at private options.

Curently thinking of traveling to Belgium using either Prof Dillemans or Chris De Bruyne. Does anyone have any experiences of these guys and of getting aftercare back home in the UK?

[kakatlady612 1,053]

I have heard of Chris De Bruyne, person using him seemed well satisfied. Sure Ms Tipps or one of the other UK people on here will see your post and have answers about aftercare. Best wishes, I know you'll, get good care even if you have to accrue some travel time.

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[MsTipps 314]

Hey @Albus, I went privately for mine as the waiting time and the number of hoops to jump through for the NHS were off-putting for me. I stayed within the UK and went through Tonic who made all the arrangements with Nuffield for me. I started with a free consultation with the Surgeon who discussed my options and what was/wasn't suitable for my personal circumstances. There was no pressure and I followed up with a phone call to confirm my decision to go ahead and my chosen procedure. I had psychological, eating and exercise questionnaires to fill in as well as regular phone calls and emails. They sent me pre and post op diet guidelines by email and the dietician was very helpful. On surgery day, Tonic arranged all the transport etc... both the surgeon and anaesthetist came to discuss everything and check I was ok. The nursing care was faultless from beginning to end. My op took about 2 hours including a leak test. I wasn't catheterised and had no drains when I woke up. The dietician, psychologist, wellness coach and Tonic rep are on-hand whenever you have any questions or problems. My GP has agreed to do the regular blood tests to monitor Vitamin levels etc for free (my Surgeon organised this before surgery day) and I will go for my first big check at 6 weeks. I have a 5 year care package so the same team will support me for 5 years even if I move house. It was certainly the right thing for me. I'm not sure what it's like going overseas for surgery but there's plenty who do who will advise you. I would discuss what follow-up care would look like if you went abroad with your GP.xx

Edited February 22, 2018 by MsTipps

[SarKat 5]

Hiya
Can I ask how long the wait was between your initial consultation and actual surgery ?
I have an appointment booked next week with the Nuffield and I'm hoping to get a gastric sleeve
Thanks

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[MsTipps 314]

I had my initial consultation in Oct/Nov and had my op on Jan 18th x