ashagirl

Good advice Road Queen...I needed to hear that myself.

I went Wednesday also for a fill. The Water feels like a slow drain...just sitting there for a few seconds. You may have just PBed because of the swelling still. I can tell the swelling is going down for me already.

What size band do you have?

Yes, you probably just haven't hit your restriction point yet. Don't give up. It will happen for you.

I was banded 5/31. You will be just fine. So far the hunger is in my mind...I think I want to eat a horse...but strangely some sf Jello fills me up after a couple of spoonfuls. Of course, I'm only 5 days out. As for the cost, just think how much less you will spend on food? :girl_hug:

I've learned a lot about myself through this lapband journey. I am definitely an emotional eater. In fact, I just like shopping for groceries.

But my doctor cleared it up for me....I've been overweight since a toddler. Honestly...and I mean HONESTLY, in ten years where would I be...with an even slower metabolism...even more wear and tear on my body? The honest answer to that question gave me courage to take the first step of this journey.

4 days after banding....so far so good....started whole liquid diet toaday....yum :girl_hug:

I bet there are some good ones in Lubbock. My primary physician suggested the office in Abilene (he wouldn't have any other way :girl_hug: ) And it has been great so far...I love it that so many people in the office have had the band and can answer all of my little questions. They are also awesome in that they just handled all of my records, insurance, everything. They wrote the letters, wrestled with insurance, I feel like all I had to do was show up practically--really reduced my stress.

Just make sure you get one that's got some experience...if the doc just started advertising... make sure that's all they just started.

I went right to the exclusions section to see what it said for wls. It may say only if medically necessary...that was all the door I needed. Some exclude it no matter what.

1. How long did it take to get approval? 3 1/2 months (first appointment 1/23) approved 5/17 (banded 5/31) If not approved how long have you been working to get approved?

2. Did they require a psyche eval? Yes Nutritionist consult? Not that I know of...my surgeon's insurance coordinator handled everything Sleep Study? No

3. How many months supervised weight loss did you have before approval? I had years of documented doctor supervised weightloss from my primary physician...including things like xenical, Atkins, etc. All pieced together, I probably had 2-3 years as indicated in my official medical records. Of course, I've done nutrisystem, etc on my own.

4. Did you have to call them constantly? I don't think I had to, but the surgeon's insurance coordinator told me when to start calling, and I did...almost daily.

5. Were you denied the first time? Yes, they kicked it back for a psych evaluation, but the psychologist that my surgeon referred me to was also very experienced in this and fast and thorough with his paperwork submission. I think the kickback for the psych evaluation only cost us 2 weeks time, and the insurance coordinator told me not to worry that it was routine. Did you have to appeal?

6. Any recommendations for people trying to get approved? Go to a surgeon and office experienced in this process. Also, make sure your primary care physician and office will work with the surgeon.

7. What plan are you on (1, 2, or 3) and what was your total out of pocket? TRS Active Care 2...my TOTAl out of pocket....was $2,500...all paid 5/30....banded 5/31

awesome! thanks.

I've been there. It will come faster than you think. Good luck

It does seem to vary. I'm only 3 days after my band. While I'm doing great (off pain meds), I do still tire easily. I think it depends too on how physical your job is.

Thanks for the info. I hope you feel better soon.

I was just banded 3 days ago, so I am so new to this...but I would think regrets depend on your reasons for getting the band. For example, if you were banded to help with other health issues, then that result will reflect in your feelings. But I'm glad to hear both sides....especially at this stage for me.

Congratulations! It's great to get the ball rolling. I got banded within 2 weeks of approval (banded on 5/31).

I agree...just talk with your doctor.

I'm in the May club too...just barely...I'll get banded on May 31st!

These all sound great. I will have to try them.

It is a great site...my doctor's office suggested this site.

Hey there! I'm getting banded on May 31st too...but in Abilene, Texas.

Good luck.

I took a job because the insurance paid for the surgery. I it all works out for you. My banding is scheduled for 5/31.

Well, May 31st is our day!...I'm around Abilene, Texas. I too can't believe it's happening. I wish you luck too. :grouphug:

Hi, I'm Asha from Texas. Actually, my surgeon's insurance benefits coordinator referred me to this site. I am getting banded in just 4 days! I'm going through all of those things that so many of you already have...excitement...a little concern over that liquid stage:confused:

Of course, like many of you, I have been working towards this and jumping through all of the hoops as required. :grouphug:

I know what you mean...I get banded 5/31...this Wednesday!