"I had a VSG with Dr. St. Laurent over a year ago. I was very nervous and he put me at ease. I felt like he did not blame me for my weight and that he was willing to be on my side. I went in asking about a band and he told me about the VSG. I ended up going with the sleeve and am VERY happy with it. He was honest about weight loss goals. He really spent a long time answering my questions.
There were several pre-op tests, but not the number a lot of people have I think. Even with that, I felt sure he was fully prepared for my surgery. I was very happy that I was able to schedule it so quickly. The doctor was very confident about his skills and it made me feel more at ease. I believe that he is a great surgeon.
I really love their nutritionists and the nurse coordinator. My hospital stay was wonderful. They took great care of me. The facilities were clean and well kept. However, as sweet as the office staff is, in my experience I didn't feel they are especially professional. I feel like the finance/manager lady did a poor job in my case, nearly having to cancel the surgery after the pre op diet. A hint would be to stay on top of her. We thought we did, but she still let important things go. We were very lucky to get it sorted in time.
I love their aftercare program. You meet with the doc and the nutritionist at each appointment (6 in the first year). These are very valuable appointments, use them wisely. They approach to weight loss is stellar. They help you get off the diet treadmill and move on to living in a healthy way. Both nutritionists are good I think. some will click more with one over the other though. I wish you could pick, because it is a personality thing. I feel like they are most concerned with my long term success and not just having great numbers. Dr. St. Laurent always comes in and is willing to answer alot of questions. He seems very keen to hear how you are doing. I like that he sits back in a comfortable chair and doesn't make you feel like he is in a rush.
Ok, a few things I don't like, I feel like I can hear way too much of other people's appointments because the walls are thin. It isn't the office's fault and its a medical building so it should be better sound-proofed. But it made me a bit uneasy. I also feel like Dr. St. Laurent lectured me a bit, when I really didn't deserve a lecture. Like he was expecting me to be making mistakes and so he lectured me for good measure. It shook my confidence. I think he gets used to some of the same issues arising and might have some pretty standard lectures. However, I know some people like that he is a bit stern. But overall, I find him supportive and I feel good when I leave the office.
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