I was banded five years ago --lost 15 pounds more than my goal (92 pounds total)--I have no problems at all. Been at the same weight for two years. I used to see my doctor once a year after I lost the weight and had just the right amount of fill --but last month, he died. No one is doing lap bands here now. A general surgeon took over his practice. I don't know if I should make an appointment since it's now close to the once-a-year date ($125 self-pay) go in, say hello, and that everything is fine. Doesn't seem to be much point. Except for general questions about my health, the LAP-BAND® doctor never did anything except fill and unfill until I was happy with the amount. I do have a GP who does blood work and all that --so is there any reason to see the doctor who took over for my doctor who died?

I don't see how it would do you any good to go meet with the doctor that took over the practice if he/she is not a bariatric doctor.

You might call the office and see if they can refer you to someone? Even if they're not super close, it would probably be best to have a doctor kind of "on call" in case you ever need something band-wise. If the office doesn't have any ideas, call your local hospital, or do a search online. Surely there is someone within an hour or two's drive? At least you could call and speak with them. Surely there are other folks that are in the same situation. Good luck!

I also think its important that you find a bariatric specialist. Its a bit like going for regular pap smears,breast exams,blood work etc. We go for them even though we feel fine because the Dr may discover something through testing that may otherwise go undiscovered until its too late. Think of it as insurance - you want to meet a specialist before something goes wrong.

Where are you located? There may be someone here that can recommebd a Dr in your area.

as you said, others must be in the same boat. I'm in Elkhart, IN -- I know there are bariatric places within an hour drive -South Bend - but it seemed like a lot of time and $ to go to someone new, hassle with all the records transfer, and the various indigities of medical prodding and disrobing for someone who has no issues for the past two years. Still, the "just in case" idea seems logical. But I'll call the office --perhaps they are referring everyone to the same place --won't know unless I call --on the other hand I did receive a letter about the new doctor and how he won't be doing any weight related surgery . . .