My name is Kendra, hi all! (:
I literally just decided to have the sleeve done. This is pretty exciting moment for me. I have thought/fantasized about having wls, but never really did anything about it. I guess it just always so risky. After doing some research about the different kinds of wls, it seems to be old hat for a lot of people. So, I figured if they can do it, so can I!!
But...I have no idea where to go from here.
I am 29 and I recently moved out of state for work and am living in Philadelphia. No family or friends in the state, so this should be interesting to say the least! First thing I did, last night at about 10pm (told you I literally just decided) was check with my insurance provider to see if they cover wls and voila! They cover 80%, which is a good thing, I think.
The next step- Find a doctor and tell him I want wls? Is it really that simple..and by simple, I mean probably one of the most difficult things I've ever had to do!
I know that once I find a doctor and we've talked about it, as well as all the options, and cons and pros, that everything will seem a little more on track..but for right now.. what happens next? How long is the process from this point until surgery? I've read about special diets that doctors put you on before the surgeries.. What’s all that about? I've also read that you have to talk with therapists afterward?
I have tried to narrow down pricing for the sleeve as well. I realize that a lot of factors are involved with a surgery like this, but can anyone give me actual pricing?? I've read that it can be anywhere from $10,000-$13,000, while another website said $17,000-$25,000!! WHAT THE HECK!! Clarification.. That’s what I need!! So, any help at all, would be wonderful!