My surgeon's office told me today that she has done "about" 36 sleeves - what does everyone think? Do you think this is sufficient for her to be considered "experienced?" I'm scheduled for the surgery in 14 days. THanks everyone

I haven't had my sleeve yet, but I've been researching WLS for almost two years now. I am sure plenty of people with more experience will chime in.

You need to weigh the pros and cons. It goes without question that a surgeon with more successful, leak-free surgeries is going to be a better option because of the experience. Leaks are very dangerous, and every surgery is risky. It's in your best interest to choose someone who can safely perform the surgery for you, provide a detailed plan and also post-operative support.

That said, if everyone avoids this particular surgeon because of lack of experience, he'll never gain that experience.

Are you self-pay? If so, you have even more options because your insurance won't limit you.

I can say that most likely the folks that had their sleeves done by military had a less experienced doctor, since the military isn't regularly covering sleeves yet, so maybe one or more of those folks will chime in with their experience.

In the end it's up to you. Go with your gut feeling. If you feel like you have no reason to doubt your surgeon's capabilities and/or experience, then go through with the surgery. If you have a single doubt, it's better to cancel and keep looking for someone else. It's up to you to decide if you feel safe in the hands of this surgeon and his staff. You shouldn't risk your life and well-being, and there are other choices out there.

~CLK

I would look for a surgeon who has done the VSG procedure at least 300 times. Then be sure to ask him/her about his record with regard to most serious as well as most common complications. Good luck.

In the US, not a lot of surgeons do the sleeve or have done that many. I would find out the complication/mortality rate of the dr, not just with the sleeve but their other wls. If they have done hundreds or thousands of others with little complications and/or deaths related to surgical error, then you will most likely be fine. The RNY is a much more invasive procedure, with staples and rerouting of the intestines. If they have a good reputation doing those I would say they are a skilled surgeon. But regardless, you have to feel comfortable with your surgeon.

Good luck!

Kelly