After lurking quite a bit, several posts here, and a struggle with insurance I am being banded on December 21. This is my third day of the pre-op diet. Not easy at all.

I am in Dallas. Like many of you I am concerned about whether I can change my habits for life. The mental hunger has been a problem for me all my life. That is something I will have to fight. I am concerned about pills. Of course, hopefully I will be able to get off most of them.

Thank you to all for letting me lurk and learn. My doctor has 24 hour call thank heavens. I read horror stories about follow-up care. I learned questions to ask.

This is a very valuable site.

Elaine

Hi Bigbaby, sorry so long answering. The process for pre-cert wasn't long! My 1st visit to AIGB was Oct. 13th and after completing Psych visit, stress test, nutritionist (in case my L A Weight Loss diet wasn't enough for Ins.), Paperwork submitted 11-28 and approved on 12-6. Whew!!! The pre-op diet consists of 2 high protein meals and 3 protein shakes. Coffee/tea with Splenda, low fat/sugar and carbs. Not too bad. I'm glad it's not the all liquid diet like some have to do. Also, since I'm going to Richardson Regional I have to stay overnight in the hosp. But we must do what we have to, RIGHT???!!

Good Luck and keep me informed

Butterfly

My insurance also wouldn't allow Surgery Center of Richardson so I am having it at Presby. I have heard very good things about it but had also heard not all insurances allow it. I am just happy insurance finally approved the surgery.

I just called insurance to be sure the doctor's office had ok'ed Thursday's date. They have. All set.

The pre-op diet isn't a big thing now. The first 4 days were the worst.

Of course I am nervous, hopeful, self-doubting.

BlackButterfly, I am sorry your date had to be postponed.

I am staying overnight too. The doc gave me the option. I tend to have nausea after surgery so it will be fast for them to give me a shot if I do. I know they frown on nausea. After a night I will be ok.

Long time coming. It has taken me over 3 years to get finally approved. I didn't know what I was doing until I went through AIGB. I thought Weight Watchers would help me get the ok from insurance but it did not. Things I thought were documentation they thought not.

ReneBean, I am glad you have heard good things about my doctor. He did my one of my doctor's mother's surgery.