babyk

@ amaris: o no that's kind of a bummer! thanks for all of the advice. it is really nice to have some answers :thumbup: have you already gotten your band?

wow! how exciting! great luck to you!!!! how long did the process of being approved from insurance and actually scheduling a date, take?

@ amaris: wow thanks so much for all the info! I am trying to figure out whether i should go to an outside doctor that is affiliated with my insurance or go to a doctor that is "approved" by my insurance to get the referral letter. I am afraid that if i go to a doctor that is approved by my insurance and they deny me, that i will not be able to get the surgery. Any advice?

I am trying to begin this process... What should I do first? I looked up my insurance's requirements to have the lap band. So far, I fall into those requirements. However, it states that I need to have a written letter from a doctor. I found a list of doctors that are covered from my insurance to do this procedure. Do I make an appointment with one these "approved" doctors or an outside doctor? I guess I am hesitant but I am scared to get denied from a doctor that is related to my insurance. What should I do?? any replies are greatly appreciated :]

@ Laura Lane: I have been researching placers in Mexico as well. What can you tell me about the place that you went? Were the facilities nice? How much did you pay? (if you don't mind me asking) i will definitely keep you posted thanks for caring! @kcarny: thanks! i've stuggled with my weight for my entire life, which i am sure most of us here have. i'm tired of being miserable. thanks for the advice. i am going to ask my grandma to go to an appointment with me. I am going to the seminar this weekend and my boyfriend is coming with me. he is very supportive. what is the next step? i do not have a primary doctor at this point.

wow thanks for the advice :] @ becca29: how did you bring it up to your family? I am afraid since I am "young" that my family will be hesitant. I live on my own and work and go to school so they know I am responsible. i am just afraid that they may not agree with it. i wouldn't know what to do with out my family's support. @reverie: i understand what you are saying about gaining a pound. i was thinking the same thing. thanks for the advice :] what was the process for you as far as getting approved by your insurance?

i am 20 years old. female 5'5 235 pounds i have been heavy my entire life but have gained over 70 pounds in the last year alone. my father passed way and i quit smoking. i am so miserable being overweight. i have tried every thing known to man kind to lose weight and nothing works permanently. i have lost weight several times and have ended up gaining back everything i lost plus so much more. i am really considering getting the LAP-BAND® and have a few questions. would i be a candidate? (my bmi is a 39.1) has any gotten the LAP-BAND® in los Angeles? i live here and have ppo insurance. were you able to get financed? how should i bring this up to my family!? any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks :]