I am just starting the process, and I have looked into a few Dr.'s I was wondering who you guys felt really comfortable with. I went to the group information meeting with Dr. Simpson. I found his office to be kinda old looking, and he seemed kinda "smart alecy" when I asked him a few things. I have heard he has put the most bands in in AZ, but I am just not sure how I feel about him. Please let me know how you feel about your Dr's and pros cons.. I am on the West side so it might be hard for me to travel very far for support groups in such but if it's the right DR. I might be willing to. Thanks

:confused2: I am in Avondale

I used Dr Robin Blackstone in Scottsdale..... she was wonderful...I was banded a little over three weeks ago and would not have changed doctors for anything.

I used Weight Loss Institute of Arizona in Tempe and love them. Dr. DeBarros actually had the procedure himself last year. Arizona Weight Loss - Gastric Bypass and Lapband Surgery

I also am having my band done on May 19th at the WLIA with Dr. DeBarros ..He is wonderful and answers every question without ever making you feel rushed ..

What is the after program like? Do you attend the support groups? And what hospital did you have the surgery at?

To me it was one stop shopping. I didn't go to a seminar because I live out of state. My first appointment, they went over their basics of how the program worked. They also started the preop testing. I went back a few weeks later and had the EGD, psych appt, and the rest of the preop testing. After that they submitted to my insurance and I had the surgery a few weeks later. I did go for another visit the day prior to surgery. I felt like they answered all of my questions and felt secure going into surgery.

I had my surgery at Surgical Specialty and it was very nice. You also have the option of having it done at St. Lukes in Tempe but you aren't guaranteed a private room at St. Lukes and they say it isn't as nice.

Good luck with your decision!

What is the after program like? Do you attend the support groups? And what hospital did you have the surgery at?

Hi doots53,

I also had my surgery through WLIA. They have an incredible support program. There are meetings one Monday and one Saturday a month. I attend all of the Saturday meetings and Monday's when I can. We also have a group that meets and communicates regularly outside of scheduled support group meetings.

They do surgery at The Surgical Specialty hospital in Phoenix and at Tempe St. Luke's (where there offices are located). I had my surgery at Tempe St. Luke's. The rooms are private, but I've also heard a few say that they prefer the Surgical Specialty Hospital.

(By the way.... I also went to the seminar w/ Dr. Simpson and felt the same way you did. After that, I knew I wouldn't be having surgery with him and attended several other seminars. I'm glad I looked around and I think you will be, too.)

I am using True Results in scottsdale they have been very helpful

Hi! Dr. Blackstone was also recommended to me by a Dr. in Vegas. Good luck!

Anyone in Arizona going through CIGNA and know what doctors they approve?

I have gone through Weight LossInstitue of Arizona .. with Dr. DeBarros.. I absolutley love them ..Best care and the Drs are wonderful ..The whole staff is outstanding ...