GypsyLady

So, still waiting. It's been a month and I still don't have the insurance approval. All my pre-surgical clearances have now expired. I'm going on vaca in 2 weeks, and have 3 biz trips between now and Nov, so if approval happens soon, it's going to be quite a challenge. Thanks for everyone's feedback on the Vitamins, Protein powder and beverages. I've decided to start a nutrition program while I'm in a holding pattern, so i can jump start the weight loss and prep my body for what's to come.

I'm currently in a holding pattern, waiting for my insurance to give my doc the approval to do my lap band surgery. I started this leg of my journey in April an so far (knock on wood) it's gone fine. I've had my pre-surgery clearance from my internist and my blood work is complete. Now if Cigna will just move their coolies I can get myself scheduled. This is my 2nd procedure. I had my first band done 3 years ago. It was in for 3 weeks and then removed. No physical complications, just mental problems with accepting the band, poor doctor support and general overall bad experience. In a much better state of mind this go around. New doctor, much more down to earth. Not a fancy office, but a real hands on doc. Does all of his own band adjustments, not like the factory that I was first working with. Questions for those who have already had the band: 1. Has anyone had experience with Dr. Pucci (and if so, which office, he has 3 or 4 locations) 2. Has anyone had experience with Englewood hospital in NJ 3. What is the best Protein powder? I heard powders?utm_source=BariatricPal&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=CommentLink" target="_ad" data-id="1" >unjury was popular and tastes good. 4. What is the best multi Vitamin? 5. How important is the no drinking a 1/2 hour before meal and a 1/2 hour after meal...is there any wiggle room? I drink non-stop during the day...I can't imagine stopping. 6. How do you get through holiday meals, weddings, etc. without everyone noticing how you have to eat? Wish me luck and cross your fingers for a quick insurance approval.

My doctor is in the process of submitting to my insurance for the Lap Band procedure. I am keeping my fingers crossed and praying that they approve it and soon. If all goes well, this will be my 2nd procedure. My first was with Dr. Beth Shrope in Ridgewood, NJ. It was in for 3 weeks before being removed. No medical reason for the removal...long story... I've gained over 30lbs since the last procedure, 3 years ago and I feel like I'm more than ready this time around. Different Doctor, different hospital, different pre-op and post op instructions. Has anyone had their surgery done by Dr. Pucci (or any of the brothers in the practice)? What was your experience like? I was very disappointed with my first doctor and the very cold and hands off way their office treated me. Nice, modern office compared to my current doctor, longer process, but much less personalized. I was told that there are risks with trying the same procedure again...scar tissue, etc. I've had an upper GI and xrays to let him see what's going on inside, but he won't be able to tell 100% until he's inside. I'm terrified that I'm going to wake up from the procedure to find that he couldn't put it in because of complications from the first procedure...even though he says it's unlikely to be the case. I was told that the best tasting Protein powder is unjury...but I never heard of that brand...has anyone tried it? What do you think? Is it worth ordering online, because I can't find it in stores. Not openly discussing the surgery with anyone except my husband and BFF...I feel it's private and none of anyone else's business. That's why I think this chat group is so important. I need to be able to exchange ideas with other patients and know what I'm dealing with.