"Dr. Jeffrey Chaudhari did my gastric sleeve in June 2010.
My primary care practitioner told me that the skill of the surgeon is key for this type of surgery. All I can say is that if my surgery and recovery is an indicator, Dr. Chaudhari's skill level is clearly tops.
My first impression of Dr. Chaudhari at the info meeting was that he was friendly, and not only answers questions but welcomes them. When I had my consult, this was reinforced. In fact, he commented that he especially likes it when his patients have done lots of research and ask him tough questions. He doesn't rush you and takes all the time you need. My insurance covered RNY, Sleeve, and Lapband. We immediately ruled out lapband for me. Dr. C spent quite a bit of time explaining how each would work with me and answering a million of my questions. I chose the sleeve and I've been very happy with it.
His office staff is the same - both nutritionists Leslie and Stacy answer questions by email and phone very quickly as well as doing face to face consults. I felt like I was well-prepared for my surgery. Gina was amazing getting my surgery approved very quickly. In fact, the entire staff will feel like your family very quickly.
In terms of recovery, I woke up from anesthesia with some pain and I was immediately given pain meds. I fell back asleep and when I woke up the pain was gone. It never really came back. I had one more pain shot thinking I'd preempt the pain, and then took two pain pills and that was it. I had surgery on Wednesday and was back at work, driving, on the following Tuesday. No one could believe I had had surgery. The weight is falling off quickly still and I'm very pleased with the results. Of course the sleeve is a tool, and you have to make lifestyle changes, but Dr. C. and his staff will guide you every step of the way.
The only negative I have is with the post-op diet. It included unsweetened apple juice, which is fine for many people, but for me, it threw me into a stall the first week and slowed down my weight loss initially. Once I discussed that with Dr. C., we made adjustments in the diet. Remember, everyone is different and if something isn't working for you, then talk to the Dr. and the nutritionist - that's why their program provides you with a nutritionist for life.
I was lucky in my choice of surgeon to have one with an extremely high skill level and with a great bedside manner. You can't go wrong with Dr. C."
