"Dr. Craig G. Chang (Victoria, TX)
My first impression of Dr. Chang was how young he is. He was very direct and informative which to me was reassuring. He did not sugar coat ANYTHING. He told me that he would like for me to lose 10-15 pounds but that he will do the surgery if I don't lose weight before... BUT he said he WILL NOT do the surgery if I gain between now and then. His staff is extremely friendly. Ann (who does the insurance) is very helpful and emails me when ever she needs anything from me. The thing I liked least about Dr. Chang is that he told me there is 1 in 200 people die from this surgery. (which is also what I liked best because he's honest ... It's really not HIS fault that the numbers are what they are) I thought that was extremely bad number and he seemed like it was acceptable. Dr. Chang and the other doctors in his office have two aftercare support groups. One is called "Pouch Pals" which is a monthly meeting where there are guest speakers on various topics, a time set aside for the doctors to speak and a time for someone to tell their story. Another aftercare program is a weekly group session with the counselor. Also the hospital has a TOP OF THE LINE exercise facility that is beautiful. They have several programs geared toward Bariatric patients. This doctor was very thorough in addressing the risks of surgery which I appreciated. I would rate him a 8 overall. I would like both a good bedside manner but with out surgical competence I could be dead so for me surgical competence FAR OUTWEIGHS bedside manner. I had VERY LITTLE pain after surgery, was given all precautions to prevent blood clots. So far, so good."
"The rooms are fairly new and all private. Each one has a built in couch, closets, etc. with three chairs. Up to date and almost hotel like. The other is more like a normal hospital."
"I had a SEVERE yeast infection a couple of years back (under apron and between legs). I went to two doctors who prescribed Diflucan. I took it as directed and my infection did not clear up. Dr. Zingerle cleared it up and has been very supportive in my weight loss efforts. She is the one who suggested that I look into surgery. Her office said she was "thrilled" that I have decided to go forward with this."
