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I went through exactly what your talking about. I sat down and figured out that I would be saving around $250 or more per month in food which means that it will be paid off in 3 years. I looked at it as an investment. I paid off all of my debt before I payed out of pocket for this. It's the first debt that I have ever had that will actually mean something (Besides school loans.) I do feel more motivated to do it right because the $10000 actually means something now. I know I will get a return on my investment.

I also went back and forth but what made me choose the lap band was it was slower weight loss which is more natural, ur able to tone as you loose, and also the malabsorption. With malabsorption your body is not able to use all minerals and vitamins the same anymore. So you will have to take Iron, multivitamin, b-12 injections, calcium, and vit D for the rest of your life. With lap band only a multivitamin and you are good to go. But you also need to factor in how much you need to loose. Just do your research write down questions you have and be prepared to drill your surgeon when you meet this him. They like you to ask alot of questions anyways it lets them know that ur are very intrested in the best thing for your health. GOOD LUCK ON YOUR JOURNEY...

Monday, March 19 was a very emotional day for me. Today was my first meeting with the surgeon. I was scared, nervous, shaking, stomach pains and sweating profusely. ( It was warm on Monday.) Luckily, the Ambulatory Surgical center had complimentary valet parking. It was a blessing in disguise. As I walked to the building my legs felt like cement beams with every step I took. I glanced at the directory but already knew the office was on the second floor. I was a little thrown off because there were signs for center, west and east elevators. After getting to the secod floor I learned the office was on the west side of the building. I was 30 mins early so I sat for a minute to collect myself and mop up some of the sweat from my brow. The chairs in the lobby were snug so I figured I would be much more comfortable waiting in the doctors office. The girl at the desk was pleasant, Joan was sweet (Physicians Assistanct), Dr. Nusbaum was awesome and Denise was very informative in a matter of fact kind of way. Denise will be my point of contact because she handles the approval process with the insurance complany. Dr. Nusbaum calmed my fears and I feel completely safe in his hands. He explained the procedure and answered any questions I had. I didn't have many at the time but I'm keeping a journal of future questions to ask. I left the office feeling confident and ready to get my journey started. :wub: I was surprised that I do not need to follow a pre-op diet. I was hoping I would get to experience how it would feel to consume only liquids. I guess I will have plenty of time to do so my first week. Dr Nusbaum said I will need to stay in the hospital overnight and then after a week I can return to work. I have tons of tests and appointments with doctors for clearance. I've made all of my appointments and will have everything complete next week. Awesome!! Below is the list of things I have to do before my surgery can be approved by my insurance company. Letter of Medical Neccesity from my PCP Letter from my Nutritionist Pulmonology Consult Cardiology Consult Psych Evaluation Bloodwork Venous Doppler Lower Extremites Bilateral Filter to prevent Blood Clots inserted Trans-Nasal endoscopy I figure I'm on track to get sleeved mid April!

Thanks for letting me join your group. I live in Kissimmee Florida I had my lap band surgery Nov. 13 2009. I have lost 99 pounds. I am real happy with my results. I can do things I did not think would be possible again. I am 66 years old but feel much younger now. My doctor is Dr. Ernest Rehnke in St. Petersbug Fla. I think the world of him Great doctor.

That is the perfect way for me to look at it. I would not hesitate to pay $10,000 over and over again to help my family's health or anything. So thanks for that angle!

My feeling is that after a year when he sees the new beautiful you, he will not give the money spent a second thought. You may even have to hold him back from showering you with gifts. Good luck on your journey. Enjoy it.

Ugh, I don't know why I tortured myself by reading the comments on that article. Should have known better. People are seriously such pompous as@holes.

I agree with everyone who responded so far. The lap band appears safer and with less risks. To me, once they cut your insides, there is no going back. I researched and talked and made up my mind for the lap band because I know this is what I want to do and with this help (of banding) and my willingness to be healthy, I know this was the choice for me.

Congrats anncm, I had my surgery there too February 13th of this year. Was at Cambie yesterday for my first fill. Nice to meet you.

No more sirloin steak. I'm strictly filet mignon now. Or it just comes back up. Sorry for the TMI.