New here!

Hi Everyone, I'm new to the forum. Today I took the first step toward my new life when I met with my doctor to get a referral for WLS. I live in Toronto. Does anyone know what the average time between referral and surgery is (I understand there are many steps in between)? Also, is it possible to choose VGS over RNY? I would strongly prefer VGS as I'm concerned about the longer term nutritional deficiencies that can happen with RNY, but I don't know if the patient is allowed to choose their type of surgery. Any information on this would be very helpful. I'm excited but a little scared about the long road ahead...

Welcome!

You will either be referred to TWH or Humber. If you go to the bariatric registry you can put in your postal code and see. Once your referral goes in it can be 3-6 months before you get your letter for orientation. I am 2 yr out it seems to be a little quicker now. If you go through Toronto Western you go through

1. Orientation
2. Nurse Practioner
3. Dietician
4. Social Worker
5. Nutrtion class
6. Psychologist/Pshychitrist

Once you go through all these they review your file and approve for surgery. Depending on your history they may request further tests or second visits. The surgeon visit is after the above approve you.

If you go through Humber I believe you meet the surgeon first and have to see the internist. I am sure others will reply.

RNY is the gold standard for ON. For VSG you have to meet certain criteria it is not a choice.

Plan for about a year from referral. It may be quicker or longer.

There are many support groups in and around Toronto. Many with others from here. I would suggest joining up with one. I found them a great help in answering questions and for long term support.

 

Get ready for a wonderful ride. Have absolutely no regrets.

 

Welcome to the board. If you end up out of TWH join the bi-monthly support group. They meet the first and third Wednesday of the month. It is a mix of pre and post op.

If you are in the east end of Toronto there is a group that meet on the Danforth at the Friendly Greek. We meet the second Tuesday and the fourth Monday

Good luck on your journey

Oh my god I love the friendly Greek!! Delicious food!

Then join us! :)  (See my signature for details...)

Hi!  You can talk to your surgeon about your preferred surgery.  However he may so no.  I originally wanted the sleeve as well.  He told me that it was too dangerous for me and would cause me more problems due to my other co morbidities.  As for wait times each hospital is different Humber seems to work the fastest and everyone there is so nice.. well so far LOL

Welcome!  I went thru Hamilton.  As far as I understand the surgery choice is up to the surgeon with the bypass being first choice for patients. 

 

Congratulations on taking control of your life and weight loss journey.  Be sure and check out OH's home page, with great articles, blog entries, before and after photos and much more.   ​​ Here are some Weight Loss Surgery Resources.

 

About Obesity

About Weight Loss Surgery

Medical Necessity

Post-op Planner

BMI Calculator

Health Tracker

 

http://www.obesityhelp.com/articles/choice-of-bariatric-proc edure-a-philosophy-obtained-in-20-years-of-bariatric-practic e-2/http://www.obesityhelp.com/articles/choice-of-bariatric-proc edure-a-philosophy-obtained-in-20-years-of-bariatric-practic e-2/

If you need any further assistance, please let us know at [email protected]

Regards,

Member Services

 

Welcome! All the best on your journey. I went through Humber and they were pretty quick. But take your time to read, learn, and then read and learn some more. Knowledge is key!!

Welcome aboard. I am going to HRRH. My initial referral was sent May/13. I had orientation Aug/2013, Met with surgeon Aug/2013 Was originally scheduled for the RN/SW/DT for the end of Oct/13,but i requested be on a cancelation list and was able to complete all 3 appointments Sept30/13. I was also allowed to see the Medical Internist that day as well (originally scheduled for end of Oct/13, but I called weekly to see if any cancelations happened and I got in a month earlier). I also called my surgeons office the day after I was cleared (the clinic said if you don't hear within 2 weeks then call, but I called the next day and they were so pleasant). So now I go to sign my consent forms. get my Optifast and surgery date next Wed.  I would encourage you to take as much time as you need to make sure this is right for you, but don't be afraid to be an advocate for yourself.

Best of luck!!