Hi,

I will be having my first visit with the nutritionist and surgeon and will also have a physical done that day, The appointment is in 2 weeks. I am excited and nervous at the same time. Can anyone tell me how long after this first visit it would take for the surgery? I am having the Lap Band done. I've been a little worried because I am thinking about the excess skin once the weight is lost. I have been reading posts here that some people have surgery for this to be removed. I don't know if I'd be able to afford this; I'd probably have to have some kind of payment plan. I know I am getting ahead of myself but I am just thinking and would like some feedback. What should I expect this first visit?

A lot will depend on what your insurance requires, and what your surgeon requires.

The time between consult and surgery can depend on whether your doctor wants you to loose weight before surgery. Mine wanted 10% body weight loss.

I have lost 160 pounds (pre and post surgery loss) and on have loose skin under my chin. I do however have another 70 to loose.

Do u have insurance? Where r u from? I am self pay in CT

I was a self-pay so it was really quick! I had surgery 1 month after my initial visit. Good luck!!,

I have very good insurance, so they respond pretty quickly. My surgeon's requirements were extensive. It was like the medical clearance Olympics. I completed all the following in 5 weeks

With a lot of running around: pulmonary Dr., upper endoscopy, psychological, nutritionist appt., cardiologist appt with EKG., ultrasound, blood work, attendance at a lap band support group, and follow-up with surgeon. All well worth it! Now I need to get pre-surgical testing from the hospital, final clearance from my primary doc and consent from surgeon within 1 wk of surgery.

Thanks, everyone. I am in NY and have straight Medicare