Question:
Switching surgeons - would like input from others who have

I had my initial consult on 2/4/03, with a very competent and respected surgeon. I have been working on pre-op tests since then, with the exception of a sleep study which will be done on June 11. This surgeon will not schedule a surgery date for me until ALL pre-op tests are completed. And I know from speaking with her assistant, that at this time (4/22), her surgeries are already being scheduled for August and probably Sept. If I don't have the sleep study until June, I probably won't get a date until late October or later. For various reasons, I don't want to wait this long. If I could be off for surgery in the summer, it would be much better for me at work, and also for being able to have help post-surgery. Also, I'm just at a place where I'm SO READY - I can't fathom waiting another 6 or 7 months. I started this process, along with my son, last August. A friend of mine is having surgery with another very respected surgeon, who also performs Lap RNY (which is what I want). His schedule seems to move a lot faster. She had her consult on 3/18, and is scheduled for surgery on 5/7. I'm planning to research this doc a little more, and possibly schedule a consult with him. For those of you who have done this, were you glad you did? What were your reasons? Thanks for any input you can give. (By the way, I will still plan on going through with the sleep study. If I have apnea, I want to be treated for it, of course.)    — Carlita (posted on April 22, 2003)

April 22, 2003
Hi Carla. I switched surgeons and was so glad I did. My original surgeon made me wait for 6 months JUST for my initial consultation. I then waited another 2 months for approval during which time I was working on losing 10% of my body weight (which my surgeon required). When I received the approval, I had lost 25 of the 27 pounds required and I was READY. My insurance was scheduled to change about a month after I received my approval. When I asked for a surgery date, I was told it would be after the first of the year -- when my insurance would change and I would have to START ALL OVER AGAIN. On top of that, the surgeon refused to accept my new insurance! I was SO upset. I then started doing some SERIOUS hunting for a new surgeon and found Dr. Overcash in Ocala, FL. I called his office, explained that I already had the approval, I just needed a surgeon to do the job! I met Dr. Overcash on 12/17/01 and had surgery on 12/28/01. I thank God everyday for sending me to him - it was the best thing that ever happened to me! Best of luck with your decision!
   — Pam S.