dar36

Thank you so much. That makes me feel better! I have all sollid documentation so i hope i get my approval soon! I can't wait!

My doctor is sending the letter to insurance today for approval. I have Excellus BCBS. Is it true it takes almost 6 weeks to get a reply? How long did it take everyone to hear from the insurance company? Thanks!

It is a very long process! I started the process in January and my doctor is sending his letter to the insurance company for approval today! Hang in there...there is light at the end of the tunnel. I am actually grateful for the time it takes because it is a BIG decision and commitment. It provides time to reflect on so many things. I had my GI work done yesterday (endoscopy) and my surgeon discovered I had hiatal hernia, which explains my heartburn and chest pain. Hang in there and I wish you the best.

If you have a lot of family and friends around, it will be ok. I had major surgery when my children were 1 and 2. I was so worried about not being able to lift and hold them, however, we were able to have a lot of snuggle time on the couch. They knew mommy wasn't feeling good and they were wonderful. In fact, your child is what will keep you plugging away and remaining positive and motivated. Your child will be fine. It's more important to your child that you are healthy mentally and physically. The few weeks you can't lift her is minimal to the significant benefits you will experience in the future.

First of all...I love your the festivus! You must be a fellow Seinfeld fan. Thanks for the advice. I started a really low fat, low carb, high Protein diet last Thursday and I am down 6 pounds...4 more to go! I have been staying away from the corn, peas, potatoes as you said. It really does work. I also have been working out like a mad woman. PS...my family does a festivus celebration every year so we can have airing of grievances.

I did not get my surgery yet, however, my doctor is ready to send his letter to the insurance company for approval. Unfortunately, my insurace requires that I lose six more pounds so my doctor is waiting until I can lose the weight prior to submitting. HELP! I have six more pounds to go and I am struggling. I am eating very low carb, low fat, and high protein. I am also exercising two times a day. Any suggestions on how I can get these resistant pounds off so I can get a date scheduled?!?!?:smile:

Has anyone had lap band surgery and NOT had it done laparoscopically? I have had surgery in the past that required removing and replacing my belly button so my surgeon may have to perform the surgery with an incision on the side of my abdomin. Any one have this done?

I am so happy for both of you! Can you believe it is only a couple of days away? It has been a long journey to get to this point and the next part of the journey shall bring so many rewards to your mental and physical health. Please keep me posted on how everything goes for you because my surgery is coming up and I would love to have your feedback and encouragement. I don't have my date yet, however, I have all my clearances and have my final meeting with the doctor in July. (he's on vacation in June!!!) so we can send in the insurance requirements and hope for an approval! There are so many emotions involved in this process and I am just happy that we have the ability to speak with eachother. It's amazing the bond you can have with people you don't even know. I will include you in my prayers this evening. Stay brave and strong and know that we are all here for eachother.

I had a tummy tuck and lipo in 2008 after having two very large babies. I had two drains for at least one week and was on pain medication for quite some time. I had a required band around my belly, which I wore for six weeks and then I had to wear Spanx for several months afterward. Now, the doctor had to do more work than anticipated, but I can't imagine not having the band and spanx for support. It helped sp much. This procedure was the most painful experience of my life. It made my two c-sections seem like a day at the park. You will be swollen for a long time and will actually look better 1-2 years after the procedure, which is what I was told was normal and it is exactly what I experienced. My belly is still numb, but in retrospect, it was worth what I went through. Hang in there. It truly is a long healing process.