Bariatric Doctor--Haven't Seen Him in Years!

So, I'm coming up on my six year anniversary in January. I haven't seen my bariatric team in probably 5 years! I'm thinking of making an appointment just as a long term follow up. The last time I went in to see my bariatric doctor was as a support to a friend who I recommended to see him. He didn't know me at first, which he said is a downfall because his patients usually look completely different after a few years. In the past he's connected me with patients who had additional questions, etc., about bariatric surgery. I would also like to see the nutritionist just to "check in" and to remain vigilant, if truth be told!:cool:

You've done a super job Kenson…..6 years post surgery and looking fab! I hope to be as successful and committed as you are.

Me neither, but as a self pay patient I can't see my surgeon unless I want to fork out a lot of $$$. No insurance coverage. But luckily the bariatric nurse and nutritionist still answer any questions I have over the phone or by email. Plus I have support group once a month, but it's more like twice a year for me. Too busy! My PCP is great, and is super knowledgable on the sleeve. She keeps up to date with all my blood work, etc.

We're the old-timers around here! Still work, but worth it!

Thank you so much!
I've discovered if you've fallen off the horse, get right back on!

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Originally Posted by sraebaer

Me neither, but as a self pay patient I can't see my surgeon unless I want to fork out a lot of $$$. No insurance coverage. But luckily the bariatric nurse and nutritionist still answer any questions I have over the phone or by email. Plus I have support group once a month, but it's more like twice a year for me. Too busy! My PCP is great, and is super knowledgable on the sleeve. She keeps up to date with all my blood work, etc.

We're the old-timers around here! Still work, but worth it!

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Sharon,
It's definitely worth it. I don't ever want to go back to the life I had at 240 lbs!

Good idea to have a follow up - even after all this time. If only to confirm that you are still on the right track.

I was self pay and included in that were regular appointments with the nurse/nutritionist for 2 years. Just about to have my last appointment next week. They have however said that I can go back whenever I feel like it which is nice and I can always phone or email if I have a question. Haven't actually seen my surgeon for over 18 months. My GP keeps an eye on my bloods (every 6 months) which is great.

I love that there are long time forum members who still bother to come on and support us all. Thank you!

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Originally Posted by KiwiGal

Good idea to have a follow up - even after all this time. If only to confirm that you are still on the right track.

I was self pay and included in that were regular appointments with the nurse/nutritionist for 2 years. Just about to have my last appointment next week. They have however said that I can go back whenever I feel like it which is nice and I can always phone or email if I have a question. Haven't actually seen my surgeon for over 18 months. My GP keeps an eye on my bloods (every 6 months) which is great.

I love that there are long time forum members who still bother to come on and support us all. Thank you!

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You're so welcome!
I've realized that coming on this board is a part of my maintenance arsenal. Any and all things that will help me maintain my weight loss I intend to use!

I just see my PCP and the labs go through there. And sraebaer, I found with my insurance (Medicare Advantage), even though I was self-pay, they allow follow up with the same co pay as any specialist, because post sleeve, its covered differently. But my PCP knows me better.

Kenson, well done on the 6 years! I agree -- I don't want to go back to my 240lb (highest) weight....

I love reading success stories. Thanks for the inspiration! Assuming you do see your bariatric team, please let us know how it goes and and takeaways you get. Keep up the great job Kenson.