ObesityHelp

I did have a good visit and am pursuing the tummy tuck with Dr. O'Brien. I thought she was very personable and spent lots of time with me, we asked lots of questions. I had her evaluate for breast lift, augmentation and silicone implants as well. I can't afford that part as of yet, but it was great to get all the information. I originally thought I would do a breast lift only, but I don't think that will be enough to repair the damage done by the weight gain/loss. Looking at online pictures and her books I want the look of the implants. My husband was with me and she was great about including both of us in the conversation, listening to both of our concerns. I will have to admit I didn't realize how complicated and somewhat risky that breast portion could be. Seemed a lot less complications for the tummy tuck. I was hoping more of the fees would be covered with the insurance, but I still have a pretty large out of pocket. But it is manageable and we are going to be cash pay, so will recieve a bit of a discount.

I will most likely be having surgery in early Sept. I also have a mass on my ovary, after receiving the info and a 2nd opinion from a GYN, and multiple tests that lead us to believe the mass is non cancerous we felt we could wait. Mainly because my daughter...and last child at home is leaving for college in the fall and I don't want to be "sick" this last summer with her. I know she understands and would be perfectly fine, but it still is a lot for these final weeks home and I want to enJOY my time with her. I also am leaving for Paris/London in 3 weeks and this is a trip that has been planned, saved for and anticipated for some time. It is just my daughter and I. I can't believe it is happening....what fun it is going to be shopping in my smaller size...of course now I may buy a size smaller anticipating the tummy tuck.

Thanks for thinking of me and checking back! 

 I have heard very good things about Juliana Hansen at OHSU, especially for those of us who have extra skin issues that interfere with movement.  You might want to give them at call at OHSU.  I think their costs are less than the high dollar plastic surgeons too, but they do a good job.

Thanks for the info, I am hoping it won't be a problem. I have a large cyst that was found that has to be removed and I want to combine a tummy tuck with the surgery, so my insurance will cover most of the cost. But we will see, I will be seeing the GYN Dr and the Plastic Surgeon tomorrow. I am 3 hours a way and had to find a new GYN and a plastic surgeon with surgery rights in one hospital, they both are aware that I am wanting 2 surgeons for 1 surgery. I hope that it will work out.

I am meeting with Shannon O'brien tomorrow, what was the attitude issue? So far on the phone everyone has been nice.

I had my surgery with Dr Emma Patterson at Legacy Good Samaritan in Portland. Insurance approval was smooth sailing. Her staff is great. My insurance was United Health Care.

Thank you! You made me feel A LOT better today! I appreciate it!

I have lost 135 lbs and have another 100 lbs to go. I know it's too soon for my "apron" removal, but I am beginning to do research to find the right plastic surgeon. My doc recommended Shannon O'Brien at the Waldorf Center. So far I am not thrilled with their attitude. I also put a call into Dr. Zegzula. That was 10 days ago. His office never called me back. I guess he doesn't need my business.

Anyone out there have experience in this area? I need to have this surgery covered by my insurance, so I need a surgeon who is willing to work with insurance companies.

I had gastric sleeve surgery in November of 2010 and have been very happy with my results. I am down about 105 pounds but still have 10 more to go and can seem to get them off. I am struggling with my eating habits and feel like I have no self control.

I recenly moved to Grants Pass, Oregon and was wondering if anyone is involved in any support groups here or can recommend a counselor who understand post surgery struggles.

Thanks

Probably the best thing to do is check with your insurance to see if they have a preferred provider directory.  Usually, those doctors have services covered at a higher rate, resulting in a smaller co-pay for the patient.  From there, I'd go on-line and look for recommendations.  There are several on-line services that rate doctors nowadays and you might find a good recommendation that way.

Hi there, we have the same surgeon.  Ask your doctor about Miralax, or a generic.  I take it daily and it really helps with the constipation.  Made a big difference in my quality of life.
I'm not good at kicking people in the butt but hang in there.  You've done it before and you can do it again.