Well.....

I had my initial consult. Not exactly what I expected the person was almost stern..I guess they want to let you know how serious this is. I get it . But, was expecting different . Alot of formalities.. Paperwork...appt scheduling . Lasted two hours and I ended up in tears at one point. . I do think this is the right thing for me .. It's getting more real now. Meet with dietician in two weeks and first visit with surgeon in one week. Support groups too. I guess there is more to this than I thought .. I'm sure ill be fine .. Just so emotional .

She told me to start a diet as I have to lose 5 % of my weight . So did that today and went for a walk.( exercise is not a problem for me at ).

So wish me luck . Weighed in 20 pounds heavier than I thought .. YUCK!!!!

There is a lot of pre-screening and eduction before these surgeries. A lot of it is for your protection, some for the doctors to cover their ass liability wise, and the stretch of time from the first seminar to actual surgery gives you plenty of time to make sure that this is the right thing for you. If a doctor shortcuts ANY of this, I would say run away as fast as you can. There are reasons for it, and credible doctors want to make sure that you are going into it fully knowledgable and prepared. It's a life change, and not to be taken lightly.

FYI - I was scheduled for a gastric bypass in Feb. 10 days before I freaked out and cancelled it. I went to the two back to back classes (3 hours worth) that were mandatory prior to the surgery, and I was SO overwhelmed that I decided against that procedure. Actually, at that point I mentally blew off the whole idea of weight loss surgery, but two weeks later I settled on the band. But I will have the plication done with the band; a pretty new procedure, but most do very well with it.

And YES, it is very emotional. Your doctor and the support staff should understand that. This isn't a tonsillectomy! There is a lot more that goes along with our weight and eating, than just a simple surgical adjustment.

Good luck......let us all know how you're doing.....

Thanks .. Yes there is so much to consider . Certainly life changing .

Also keep in mind that not everyone is good at their jobs. I'm an RN and I encounter everything from admins to clinicians who have zero people skills. Don't take it personal.

If you start not feeling comfortable with your surgeon....make sure you interview a few. It's important to feel comfortable.

This journey is an emotional one......learn as much about the journey as you can.

Good luck!

I thought I was prepared and knew how hard it was. I had no idea. It is a really good idea to start breaking some bad habits now like no carbonated drinks, no drinking while eating, smaller bites and slowing your meals down. Best of lucky. You can do it!!!

It is important to be comfortable with the medical team that is involved in your lap band process. I agree with the poster above. You might want to interview another place and see it you can find a fit.