Hi, this is the first time I have left a message. I have been reading info on this site for a few weeks but was not sure how to get started. I need some help from everyone please. I am not sure where to start or what to do to get started. I seriously need help, how do you decide who to see. I live in Fort Worth, Texas. I called a place today, they do not take insurance but will submit it for you. Insurance is not my biggest concern, right now I just do not know who to go to. So, I need some recomendations. I am at the end of my rope. I have to do something and do it fast. So, any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

KIM

Obesityhelp.com has patient comments regarding various surgeons. I read every comment regarding a few doctors and about Dr. Benavides before I chose him.

You could also call your PCP and ask if he/she recommends a specific doctor.

www.lapbandsolutions.com is where I started. You could call them too...

Kim,

Hi, There are alot of folks on this board, drop some names and the peoploe who used them can tell you their experence. For info about the band (good or bad) keep reading here! There is alot of good info here.. Good luck and keep us informed...

I sure understand how you feel. How do you know who to trust? So few people I've been in support group with have had the band compared to gastric - how do you get the right help? There is a place in Richardson Texas - that I found while looking on the internet. My sons live in Frisco, and Prosper so I thought I could recoup with them - but my insurance accepted it <finally> , so I'm having it done in Orange County, Ca - an hour away from where I live in Ocean Hills. I found this site last night, and I can't read enough fast enough to find out answers to things I've been wondering about for months! Good luck with your search! I was in Dallas a few weeks ago, it's sure hot...

Check out www.aigb.com This will list several doctors in the DFW area. I don't live in the area, but I am driving in to FW and use Dr. Smith. He is great as are many other docs in the area. Go to their seminars - it's free and you get to meet them. I'm self pay because my insurance won't even discuss anything to do with obesity. From what I've heard, many Insurance companies can be a pain in the patoot (lol) to deal with. You just have to keep at it. It WILL happen for you, if you put the time and effort in. Keep asking questions here. I wish you the best in your band journey.

Terry

http://www.lapband4u.com/

Here is the website for Dr. Louis Fox. He has an office at Medical City of Dallas. Know of several folks that have seen him and all liked him.

Do you have insurance coverage or are you going to self pay. I know Dr. Fox uses the Surgery Center of Richardson (SCOR) and they charge 15,000 for banding for self pay. That was in January so I don't know if there has been any change but if so it will probably be very little.

Myra

I know Texarkana is out of your way, but my surgeon accepted my insurance. I only had to pay my deductible up front. It is something to think about as far as money goes. Her name is Dr. Rachael Keilin in Texarkana, TX. Her husband also does Lap Band Dr. Ron Hekier. You could have surgery here and have fills/ check ups in your area. This is an option if you cannot find a surgeon that will accept your insurance. GOOD LUCK!!!!

Thanks to everyone who replied. I will check out the the ones that was sugested. I will keep you posted.

Thanks

:)this is a test:)

only thing that I can add is make sure that you have the surgery from one who has done it alot...I didn't want to be the "test" subject...so look for the best you can afford....

Thanks so much, I will check into that too. I found some seminars that are being held in the next few weeks. If I am not satisfied with what I find out here in Ft. Worth, I thouht I would try Houston next. Thanks again for the help. Looks like you are making GREAT progesss.

KP

Hey KP-I drove from Central Arkansas to Houston for Dr. Spivak. Made the trip for the seminar/consult and then back for the band (May 24) and I'm going next week for my first fill. It's quite a drive but I would do it again, well I'll keep making the drive. Research him and compare, I think you'll find he has the best track record and reviews.

Welcome to the board. This is a wonderful place for information. I am very happy with my decision to have the band. Below is the information for my doctor.

North Texas Bariatric & General Surgery

Dr. Frank Veninga

4333 N. Josey Lane

Plaza II - Suite 207

Carrollton, Texas 75010

PH 972.939.8218

FX 972.395.1789

http://www.bariatricsurgerydallas.com/index.html