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Table
of Contents - Sample Excerpts
Chapter
5: Selecting a surgeon!
Eleven years to date have passed since the first LAP-BAND was placed. Back then
a patient looking to have the procedure had very few options—none in the
United States. Now nearly 1,000 doctors have been trained in the technique just
in the US alone, and many centers have accumulated substantial experience.
There are three major deciding factors when selecting your LAP-BAND center or
surgeon. One is experience. Most international centers have performed thousands
of surgeries, but some centers in the US are quickly accumulating experience.
So, maybe you will only consider the most experienced centers. Others look for
convenience; if the center is just across the street, then that will be your
first choice. Others consider the cost of the procedure if they are self-pay.
This means they may have to travel a bit to get to the center or surgeon they
selected. Some may look at all three—experience, convenience and price! |