I have been thinking about WLS for quite some time, and I have found myself to finally have the health insurance, time away from work, and finances to maybe make this thing happen. My father and step mother each have had the band with (in my opinion) lack-luster results. My step mom did have quite a but more luck than my dad, but it seems that they both have had some issues with the band and I just knew I didn't want to go that route..... Initially, I really was leaning for the RNY but the no NSAIDs thing I don't think I can live with because I don't know what health issues I may have in the future so I don't want to cut such a broad class of drugs out of the picture. I am currently 295 5'5" with no diabetes, no joint issues, no hbp,etc. etc. My only real issues are occasional sinus stuff and migraine headaches that I have had off and on since I was around 9 or 10. Basically I want to hopefully get this weight off before I end up with those issues. I have talked to 3 different WLS drs offices and went to two of their seminars after deciding against my dad/stepmom's surgeon. I have settled on Dr. Ronnie Keith in Norman, Ok. & have my first appt with him and the nutritionist in a couple weeks (per insurance must see nutritionist 1x/month for 3 months prior to surgery) I have been obsessed reading everything I can since I have decided to pursue this option further. I have done the weight watchers, calorie counting, exercise, personal trainer, diet pills, all that fun stuff and I haven't had any long term success. I am hoping I will gain the tools and knowledge I need through this to make it work for me. I don't have the greatest support system.... Far from it and that is one of my biggest concerns. Anyways, I have been lurking for a few days and this site is fantastic I hope to meet other people who can relate to me for once!

Were you self pay or insurance? I'm going to be self pay' date=' and I think I'm just curious about the process all around; from the consultation to surgery. Did you have to loose a lot of weight before surgery? How long did was it between your first consultation and your surgery?

I'm glad to know you liked him so well. I've heard he is no-nonsense, but I like that![/quote']

I was insurance that didn't kick in until January 1st. My consultation was the end of October. At the consultation he discussed the 3 surgeries and asked me which one I was leaning towards. Told him the sleeve and he agreed. Then I got a list of things to do: Pap Smear (I wasn't current), sleep study, labs, EKG, monthly support group meetings, Psych eval, monthly visit with Nutritionist and Exercise Physiologist. I had to lose 5% of my weight. You are assigned a patient advocate that helps you set up the sleep study and other appts. I was finished with all my pre op requirements by first week in December but had to wait for new insurance to kick in. The Nutritionist started me on high Protein low carb diet at first visit.

I am from Southern Oklahoma and also used Weighwise. Dr Walton was my surgeon and I agree with the other posts their staff is amazing. I am very pleased with the care I have received from Dr Walton and his entire staff.

Good Luck on your journey, and those 3 months of pre surgery requirements will fly by so much quicker than you think.

You weren't kiddin'! Surgery date is June 5th