Miss Massachusetts

flower · March 26, 2005

Hi is anyone out there from the worcester ma area I an going to be banded by Dr. Czernicah soon has anyone had any experiences with him good or bad. I am really excited about this an I hope it will finally be a way to keep off my lost weight. Just a little concerned how it will be when I'm an old lady I don't think insurance will pay to take it out. So much to think about it love to hear from all of you love this site such a relief to hear from so many peoples experience.

Alexandra · March 26, 2005

Hi Flower,

Welcome to LBT! I'm not from MA but wanted to say hi anyway. Hi!

Now, why would you want to take your band out when you're an old lady? The band is designed to be permanent, just like any other implanted device (artificial hip, heart valve, whatever). Insurance should cover complications if you have them, and if they are causing you problems, up to and including the removal of the band. But under normal circumstances we don't expect to have the band removed at any point.

Nice to meet you!

patty · March 27, 2005

Hi Flower,

I am from Weymouth. I had my surgery at Tufts-NEMC, Dr Tarnoff was my surgeon.

Patty

nurse4126 · March 28, 2005

I am from MA too- I am exploring the options out there. I am leaning towards Tufts, only because the wait time at UMASS is so long. I live in Southbridge MA, so the drive to Boston is longer, but I don't want to wait another 8-9 months for the process to happen. Does anyone have any feedback on the Tufts program? I have been emailing a future bandster who is going through the process at Tufts, but she hasn't yet been banded. Will I be able to go home the same day? How long did you wait for the actual surgery? Was the surgeon knowledgeable of the procedure? Help!!! I have so many questions!!! :Bunny

patty · March 28, 2005

Nurse4126,

I began the process in late November and had my surgery in February.

I had surgery at 8:30 am and I left the hospital at 4:30 pm. I was so happy that I could go home.

My surgeon was Dr Tarnoff.

They have a great program at Tufts. The next post op support group is Monday, April 4th at 5:45 pm. It was after my 1st support group that I made my decision.

The website is http://www.obesityconsult.com

Good luck!!

Patty