new here! - any opinions?

I'm very interested in WLS (specifically roux-en-y) and just went to my primary doc today. She said that surgery would be good in my case since I have thyroid disease and my BMI is 39. So I got a referral from her and I've cleared the first hurdle in my WLS journey! Now I need to schedule my surgeon appointment and think I will call Dr. Rupp's office as I've heard good things about him. Just wondering if anyone had him as their surgeon and would like to share their experiences.

Thanks!

I have not....but just wanted to say WELCOME!!

My therapist works with Dr. Rupp and she seems happy with his knowledge and expertise.  I never met him or his team, but if they do everything else like the psychological team that I work with - then they must do some dang good work!  Obviously, since I never met him, I didn't use him either - I always have to be independent and take my own course with things.  From my understanding, Dr. Rupp will not do a Lap RNY - only open.  Not sure why he does this but it is something to keep in mind and ask about.

If possible, I would encourage you to attend informational sessions at several different locations until you find the one that makes you most comfortable.  I went through HCMC and ultimately I think that I would make the same choice again, but I will always have those little doubts of wondering if PNC or Fairview University would have been better choices.

In my opinion , pros of HCMC are that most of the surgical team is very friendly, there are never very many people at any of the "group" sessions so you get a lot of individual attention, and the biggest one for me is that there was a quick transition back to normal, solid foods (I have never pureed anything).  The negatives would be that I've had some scheduling problems (don't ever try to reschedule anything) and one time they cancelled an appointment and never contacted me - this cost me a couple of hours of work.  The waiting room at HCMC is also a bit of an experience - they share with the diabetes clinic and there are often street people there, the place is often disheveled, and the magazines are really old.

Welcome to the board!  I look forward to hearing more about your journey.

Dr. Rupp only does open surgeries as previously stated and with your BMI being 39, you're a great candidate for lap surgery. I'd keep your options open. He is a great surgeon though from what I know, my SIL & BIL both had him and talked highly of him.

My suggestion is to go to all the informational sessions at Abbott, HCMC, United, Unity, Park Nicollet/Methodist just to name a few. This is really the best as you can then make an informed decision on which program and surgeon fits your personal needs best.

Welcome to the MN board & keep us posted on your journey!

Hia, I am going to have my surgery though Dr. Rupp and in my personal consult with him he will do Laprascopic, he's just done many more open. My BMI is 39 so I am like you in that Lap makes the most sense. Welcome!!

Kimberly