Hello - I have decided to move forward with lap band surgery and am scheduled for my consult with two doctors: Dr. Kirshenbaum and Dr. Chae. I'm having a hard time making a decision. Dr. C requires an overnight stay at the hospital and Dr. K is outpatient. I have had nothing but positive experiences at Sky Ridge Medical center, although my experience with Dr. C's scheduling is not stellar. Dr. C teaches other docs the procedure and to achieve Excellence ratings, but all the comments I've read about Dr. K are thoroughly positive and glowing. The cost difference between the two is about $5,000 - probably because of the costs of staying overnight at the hospital. I'll pay the difference if it's necessary or will make a big difference - although I'm always a bit concerned about staph infections, MRSA etc. from being in the hospital. Egads, I am completely confused. Is there anyone out there who can lend me their insight and wisdom? Thanks.

There are two big threads in the Doctors subform about Dr. K. Seeing that many patients' experiences might help you make up your mind. You can ask there to see if people have experiences with Dr. C too.

I don't know much aything about the two doctors, but I would personally prefer one who keeps you overnight. I know it costs more, especially if you're self-pay, but I believe it's preferable to be under the suprevision of nurses and such that first night. My surgery was complication free, but it helped to have people to question about aches, pains, etc.