"May 29, 2005...rnrnNow that I am 18 months out from surgery I can update my thoughts about Dr. Vaughan. I live 800+ miles away so it is important that I have a team that will answer questions quickly. They are always just a phone call away. E-mails Dr. Vaughan doesn't like to answer (I'm sure he doesn't sit at his computer a lot) but when he does he is very informative. His staff is great and they respond quickly. Dr. Vaughan is totally different than any other surgeon I have read about. He has the four rules and if you stick to them you are going to reach your goal. He is quite strict about this because he knows it works. I have been very successful in my weight loss and although we had a difference about my goal weight (me 133 (I'm there), he at 125 (maybe!). rnrnPrior to Surgery comments...12/3/03 I met Dr. Vaughan today and he is just great. Very direct and gives you all the information. The risks were clearly spelled out. He really has a very structured aftercare so we can get the most out of what we have done to become more healthy. rnrnThe staff is great. Absolutely no complaints. The office was conducive to obese people, no arms on the chairs, and even small, sturdy, secure double sized chairs for those who need more security. Getting onto the table was the only problem but Dr. Vaughan was there to assist and it was fine. rnrnDr. Vaughn and Dr. Rowe worked together thru some complications including adhesions and a hernia repair. I really believe (I don't know this) that anyone else would have stopped. I was in surgery 3 1/2 hours.rnrnDr. Vaughan is very competent surgery wise, and his bedside manner is good -- you have to know how to make him laugh!rnrnOctober 4, 2004: My disappointment was that I didn't get to see Dr. Vaughan on my six month checkup. That is his policy and I really didn't like that. I love his PA but he was the surgeon and I wanted to see him.rnrnApril 2005: Stopped in at the office to pick up some protein bars and got to see staff and Dr. Vaughan. He made me feel great. It was good walking in there weighing almost 200 lbs less than on surgery day. Thanks Dr. Vaughan. You really did change my life.rnrnMy doctor retired from weight loss surgery and moved to Alabama. It really is a shame because I believe he was one of the best. He made us stick to the rules and after watching so many fail at some of the silly rules they have, it makes me sad. I am a success because Dr. Vaughan was serious about what he did."
"He is young, aggressive in his field. Is knowledgeable about WL patients. Can ask any questions and he will answer. Goes over the risks and possible complications effectively.
One note: I was told I would consult for FREE with MD's "person". Receptionist said she told me she wanted me to consult with MD because of extreme procedures I might need. However she did not mention that it would cost me $75 which would be applied to surgery costs. I was quite taken aback when I was asked for $75.00. I did wonder why the doctor came in to talk to me when she had told me it would be his person. But at that point, what do you do? Ask him why he is in the room?? I paid the $75.00 but if you go make sure you clarify this."
