I was banded in Jan of 07...i have lost about 30 pounds...I have been in for 6 fills...I haven't been to my doctor in over a year because the doctor/patient relationship had gotten so bad...Horrible bedside manner...no empathy for my situation...All fills were self-pay so I was paying $300 a fill after having been a self pay for the surgery. My question is...Has anyone gone to a different doctor(from their surgery doctor) for fills and post-surgery care? I have never had sufficent restriction and the last time I went to my doctor for a fill they weren't sure of my fill level because my file had been "lost" when their office moved to a new facility. I have psyched myself up for trying again--does anyone have any input on using a different doctor for fills? I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma and had my surgery here in Tulsa...I would consider travel to Oklahoma City/Dallas. Please help.

Hey OKLABUBBA, sorry you are having such a rough time.. But I would definitley get a different doctor.. There have to be lots of qualified docs in your area.. No one should have to put up with being mistreated by their doctor.... I have such great care that it's hard for me to believe this happens to others.. Hope you find the right person and that your weight loss gets a good kick.... Best of luck to you... Julie

thanks...i appreciate the kind words!

I am am sorry that you've had such a negative experience. I am with True Results Aftercare. And I have been very pleased with their help and services. I was banded by Dr. Richard Benavides in Richardson, (Dallas) Tx. I think their prices are very reasonable for fills, but try googling True Results. Good luck to you.

Hey- Go to Surgical Options of Oklahoma- Oklahoma Weight loss- It is in Norman Oklahoma. I went there and dr. Lana Nelson is great!!! Her number is 405-360-7100- They are very nice there and a great group of people. Let me know if you want mor einfo and I can help ya!

Denise

Definitely switch doctors! I can't believe they couldn't tell you your fill level -- all they needed to do was take out the liquid with a syringe and see how much it was. My doctor does that periodically.

I think you're in for a pleasant surprise when you switch doctors! You're going to get to be back on the bandwagon for real and see some great improvements!!

BTW, I was banded by Dr. Rumbaut in Mexico and have been going to NYU (Dr. Ren) for my follow-ups. It was no problem at all.

Best of luck to you! :tt1:

Catherine

It is very common for people to use a different Dr. for fills than the one that actually did the surgery. Just find a place, do some research and find out their policy and what paperwork they need from you. The least you can do is call their office and ask them.

I wish you all the best!

Hi Okla,, I couldn't believe it when I read your thread because I could have written it myself. I was banded in Jan 07 also and have only lost 5kg (I think 11 pounds) in that time. I had my 7th refill 3 weeks ago and now finally have restriction for the first time. Initially they were putting 0.2mls at a time in because they didnt know or rather didnt look in my file to see what type of band they had put in, which actually took up to 10mls not 4mls. Regardless as you say we still have to pay. Anyway I think I'm on track now and am treating this as if I have just been banded. Good luck and don't lgive up. I will be looking out for your progress. Take care mate:thumbup:

Hello everyone, I was banded 10/26/07, and only have lost 35 lbs, I am kinda discouraged, I have been for 5 fills since my surgery and I feel like the only time I drop any weight is during the fill time. any input. thanks

just checking to find out how you got your weight ticker

found it thanks

I agree you need to switch Drs! The patient/doctor relationship is critical to weight loss! And trust is the key! You may end up having to go to more than one to find the one that makes you ultimately the most comfortable and give YOU the support you need! You are not getting it with your surgeon so look elsewhere! Best of luck to you! I know you can do it!

Tkl