Dr. Quilici i

serenity55 · 05-24-2009, 12:00 AM

Last March when I started my LAP-BAND® journey, I had no idea it would end up as wonderfully as it has.

I was denied several times, went to a seminar for other surgeons, and wrote letters pleading with my insurance company for this surgery.

In October of 2008, my medical group was bought out by another one, and within three days I had been approved to see Dr. Philippe Quilici. The minute I walked in to the office I knew I was in good hands.

I am totally blind, walked in alone, and was helped by one of the staff to fill out the necessary forms. I spent two, maybe three hours there, meeting the team. I was allowed to touch the model of the stomach, and learn what it looked like with the band in place.

Although I can't be sure, I'm almost positive I was the first blind weight loss patient there. Dr. Quilici was very warm, and I felt that, even though he is a busy man, he didn't make me feel rushed. He asked if I had any questions, and didn't try to discourage me from getting the band.

My surgery went without a hitch, and three months out, I think it was the best thing I've ever done. I have had no problems, and as far as I'm concerned, Dr. Q is fantastic!

Mamadot · 05-29-2009, 04:00 PM

My best friend and I were both banded by Dr. Quilici on 5/19. We both had very positive experiences. He has an excellent, well-rounded program, including the pre-op requirements (fully coordinates nutrition assessments, psych evals, working with insurance companies, etc.) to surgery (very minor discomfort - I wouldn't call it pain - small incisions, no staples) to 'free' pre- and post-op support groups. Dr. Quilici is a reknowned bariatric surgeon who teaches these procedures to other surgeons. He surrounds himself with top-notch associates. He provides his patients, free of charge, with twice monthly support group meetings and sponsors Dr. Summer Perry's one-year 'Eating Normally' psychological nutrition program. We highly recommend this surgeon for the LAP-BAND® procedure.

serenity55 · 05-29-2009, 11:52 PM

Hi Mamadot,

I'm not sure if it was you or your friend who was at the LAP-BAND® meeting last Wednesday. but thank you for posting here. I think we're pretty lucky to have Dr. Quilici and the team.

Debbie

josie74 · 09-09-2009, 11:05 PM

I just moved to Burbank from NYC. How difficult has it been for you all to get in for fills? And how much does it cost?

Thanks!

serenity55 · 09-10-2009, 12:36 AM

Welcome to Burbank,Josie! My insurance pays for my fills so I can't say for sure how much they are, though I've heard somewhere around $250. I haven't had trouble getting appointments; the waiting has been harder once you're in the office.

Good luck, and let me know if I can be of help.

Debbie

Mamadot · 09-10-2009, 04:29 PM

Yes, a very warm welcome to Southern California and Burbank, Josie! I would respond the same as Serenity - insurance covers my fills, but for self-pay I think it's around $250. Appointments are easy, but wait time can be long (but well worth the wait). If you are interested, you are welcome to attend the next Dr. Quilici-sponsored free support group meeting on Wed. 9/16 at Prov. Saint Joseph Medical Center (501 S. Buena Vista, Burbank) Hope Conference Room 6:30pm-7:30pm. Dr. Quilici will be the guest speaker at this meeting (he usually does not attend). This group includes people who are just looking into Gastric Bypass or LAP-BAND®, and those that are in the pre-op or post-op stages. Also, on the 4th Wednesday of each month is a lap-band® specific support group at the same time and location. This group will meet this month on Wed. 9/23.