Dena

I told everyone that I was having the band (I work in a really small office and my boss is also my neighbor). They have all been very supportive, but I almost wish now that I hadn't told anyone, because I always feel like I'm under a microscope, even my kids and husband watch me closely at times.

I was banded 9/16/05

1st fill 10/18 1.3cc

2nd fill 10/24 1.8cc

3rd fill 11/1 2.2cc

4th fill 11/15 3.0cc

I started filling a small amount of restriction after my 3rd (I couldn't eat bread), but now after my 4th just a couple of bites and I'm done! I literally had 4 pieces of general chicken yesterday for lunch (I should have quit at 3) and didn't eat anything else til today at lunch. As far as weight loss, well I've been trying really hard not to get discouraged, but I've only lost 7.5 lbs since my surgery........but I know with this fill, I'm on my way!!!!

Good luck

I had my surgery on Friday 9/16/05 and was back to work on Monday 9/19/05, I'm an accountant and sit on my behind most of the time, but I felt fine and have had no problems. The following weekend hurricane Rita came through and I was helping husband pack up and move stuff around. But I would be careful with the lifting.

I have UHC and my entire procedure was $20........I'm very thankful!

Good luck!

I was banded by Dr. Spivak on Sept. 16th, had my first fill Tue. (10/18/05).......Dr. S is wonderful as well as his entire staff. I can not say enough good things about them all. My friend works for a major health insurance company and she TRIED to find something bad about Dr. S prior to my surgery and found NOTHING!!!!! I believe you will find everyone on this site loves him.

Go to the consultation and see for yourself. Its very important for you to be comfortable with your doctor and not go by everyone else.

Good luck!

I had my surgery on 9/16/05 and I still have the pain in my shoulder on a daily basis. I called to schedule my first fill earlier and they told me it is in fact gas although I have just about convinced myself its what I'm eating. It seems to only get really bad after I've eaten (especially things I know I shouldn't)........

I was hoping to have surgery on the 22nd, but Dr. Spivak had prior commitments and they were having a hard time scheduling for that day. About 3:30 Thursday (9/15/05) I was told they could do it Friday morning. I think it worked out pretty well, since I didn't have time to worry about it or get nervous. I feel pretty good, still lots of gas pain, but the gas-x seems to help. I'm back at work today!!!!!

I'm scheduled to have surgery on 9/19/05 with Dr. Spivak in Houston.......My outlook on the whole process is I'm having the surgery and using it as a tool to help me lose the weight that I need to. The surgery will only work if I work for the weight loss! I know that I will have to change my eating habits and the things I like/love to eat, and exercise more.

I had my seminar and consult with Dr. Spivak on Aug. 19th, got my approval from the insurance on Aug. 31st, am having my UGI and blood work done on Sept. 7th and my surgery is scheduled for Sept. 19th!

I loved Dr. Spivak and everyone in his office has been wonderful!!!!

Got the word today.......I'm approved!!!!!! Can't wait!

Well, I met with Dr. Spivak last Friday (8/19), so now I'm just waiting on approval. Everyone at the office tells me I have nothing to worry about with UHC (employer is SBC)......but I'm keeping my fingers crossed and hoping to hear quickly.......I'll be 29 (for like the 7th time) Oct. 2 and would really like to have it done by then!!!!

Well I'm keeping my fingers crossed!

I'm going for my consult with Dr. Spivak next month and I was just curious to see if anyone has UHC and if they covered the procedure. The lady at Dr. Spivak's office did tell me that UHC is one of the insurance companies that will pay for the procedure, if conditions are met. I'm trying to think positive, because if they don't pay for the procedure, I will more than likely not have it done, and least not now, I'll have to wait til my teenagers are more "dependent, financially".

I live in Dayton and work in Baytown. I have my consult with Dr. Spivak on 8/12, due to work and vacation I cant go any sooner. I know this is a procedure that I want to have done, but would love to hear from other patients the pros and cons. Any info would be greatly appreciated!!!!!