Hello! I'm new and wanted to say hi to everyone. I live in East Tennessee and have been waiting to be approved for the lapband for over a year now. I want my CIGNA insurance to pay. I would like to use Dr. Ponce. I look forward to hearing from everyone.

Welcome to LBT, Smart! We're glad you're here! Hope your insurance comes through for you!

I had my surgery w/ Dr. Ponce in Dalton, GA when I was living Sevierville, TN. The outpatient center is significantly cheaper! I now live in FL. I changed jobs. Dr. Ponce is great! :eekB: Love his PA-C, Amanda....very helpful and kind. She is actually the one I've dealt w/ the most....I'm a PA-C as well....so don't mind at all. Figure if I have questions she can't answer then she'll talk to Dr. Ponce. The surgery hurt.....but only a few days. I would go through it again knowing the results of the way I feel!! The band is such a great tool!! I now have the ability to eat only small amounts and stop!! I am now tasting my food and enjoying it! The food is NOT controlling me....I am controlling me!! I feel SO MUCH better!! I have so much more energy not eating the junk food!! I feel so much better not eating so much that I'm so tired I take a nap in the middle of the day to make it. I am now up to walking almost 2 mi a day to work! I used to avoid walking 2 blocks!! I am amazed at the change in 5 weeks...I am down 37lbs!! I praise God for the changes HE is doing in my life through this tool!!

Praying for your success!!

God Bless,

Melody

Banded 3/20/06 -37lbs

Welcome to LBT! They say "Good things come to those who wait", good luck!