Hello everyone,

As the title says, I just decided on getting the band this week. I had been on the rollercoaster yo-yo for the past 18 years. I am at a point right now where I know that it is time to do something. I have numerous obesity related co-morbid conditions. I've decided it's time to change my life.

My husband isn't completely on board yet. He is afraid that the surgery will aggravate one of my conditions or that there will be horrible side effects. So, now I'm trying to get as much information that I can get for me and him.

I've already been in contact with BeLite. oJoyce is my patient facilitator. I'm really interested in hearing abouit experiences with Dr. Rodriguez. It will take me about three months to save and get all of my documentation in order, but I think this is a go.

It is smart to research and learn about this procedure as much as you can. It is not for everyone and make sure you talk to your surgeon about all your concerns (including hubby's). In fact...take him with you so that he too can have all the facts and info.

Good luck to you.

Where are you from? Are you traveling to Mexico to get your band? I always worry about people that travel long distances for band surgery, because the surgery is only PART of the process. Bands require A LOT of maintenance in order to even work -- I'm talking about at least monthly visits initially -- and that's provided you have no complications.

If you are traveling a long distance for the surgery, make sure you have a physician lined up near where you live to do your fills. Some physicians will not treat patients that had their bands done elsewhere.

I don't want to be discouraging -- WLS is a major decision and I just think everyone needs to go into this surgery with eyes wide open.