"I believe things happen for a reason! I first saw Dr. M in 2008 when I was seeking to have Lap-Band surgery. He strongly discouraged me from having the band and all but said he wouldn't do it. He felt very strongly it was not the right surgery for me. That's not what I wanted to hear. I was terrified of RNY bypass & sleeve was not covered by insurance at that time. So, I went to another doctor who did the lap-band surgery. That surgeon came to a new hospital for my surgery, but then decided he didn't want to remain on staff there.... he continued my care in his office, but his hospital is out of network for me - meaning I had no coverage for band fills or coverage for revision. So, I spoke with him about revision - but that it would mean changing surgeons. I'm sure that was not his ideal outcome, but in the end, it was my decision. In the meantime, I had become a part of many of the support activities provided by Dr. M's program and knew Angie (nurse), so I contacted her for guidance & I found myself going back to Dr. M, along with my husband - who had decided to have VSG also! I think it speaks a lot of him that he took me back! It was a very awkward first meeting, since I had walked away from his advise years ago.... but I think we both took it in stride! It is clear that he knows his business and sticks to his convictions when he thinks someone is making the wrong choice. He is firm, but kind.
Angie, the bariatric program nurse & Linda, the dietitian are great! So kind and very helpful! When my pre-op weight was not coming off - they were both there to help me along the way!! Jessica, the nurse in the office got all of our stuff together and we were both approved quickly!!
I recently had my last pre-op appointment with Dr. Mailapur. He asked me if I would have changed surgeons if I had not had the insurance issues. The question caught me off guard & I had a hard time with the answer. I honestly said, "I don't know". I met several of his patients in the support group meetings, and at the yearly Christmas parties they SANG his praises!! Everyone seemed pleased with him. I talked to my band group friends several times about changing to him, even before I decided to have revision. I also know the amount of support and education I have received with this program vs. the one when I got my band - is night & day!! He wants his patients educated and ready for this life changing surgery!!! So, after having time to think about it, my answer is the same.... would I have still gone to him? I don't know.... I think so... but I can never be sure, as I never really had the option to choose!! But I can say with every certainty that I am glad I did!! Things happen for a reason!!
I am editing this post on 6/25/13 to add that I had my revision from band to sleeve on April 29, 2013. After about a week and a half, I started having some complications. I was not able to keep even water down. Dr. Mailapur did not hesitate to admit me and begin trying to find out what was wrong. I was eventually admitted three times. Each time, Dr. M was highly involved and concerned. He came to my room everyday, most days twice a day! I was very pleased with his care and concern for me during a very scary & difficult time!! "
"I first met Dr. Foreman in August 2007 at a seminar given by him and his collegue Dr. Facundus. There was alot of drama and confusion due to a change in my insurance shortly after the seminar. I thought I was going to have to use another surgeon, but Dr. Forman saved the day so to speak! It was a blessing that he was able to hear of my situation and offer assistance.rnrnMy first visit with him was the first that I walked out of feeling better about my decision instead of more nervous and confused! He did not try to change my mind about the surgery I chose; he just told me the facts. I love to joke and make people laugh, but he was a tough crowd! All business... but he answered all of my questions with patience & confidence. The surgery center is expanded by the Bariatric Wellness Institute which offers full service pre & post operative support including a nutritionist. The office manager with whom I have worked on my insurance approval is very patient and helpful, as is his nurse. I am excited about my journey and *so* glad to have Dr. Foreman & his team to help me along the way!"
