I am new to the forum and just began checking out the lapband procedure. My husband and I are both looking into the procedure and are currently looking into doctors in the Houston Texas area. We have BlueCross blue shield of Texas and according to their benefits book will cover lapband beginning in 2007. I am currently at 36 bmi (but weigh about 100 lbs more than ideal weight) and my hubby at 38 bmi. I have thyroid disease and he has many other health problems that make him an ideal candidate for the procedure including weight induced diabetes.

I need some help and direction about the procedure, good doctors in my area and life after the band.

Thanks for the info....

I made my appointment with Dr. Spiegel for next week and they are supposed to call me back with information about my insurance. I have continued to read all the posts and am having some hesitation about Dr. Spiegel. There are some people here who are complaining about him here in Houston. Any thoughts?

I made my appointment with Dr. Spiegel for next week and they are supposed to call me back with information about my insurance. I have continued to read all the posts and am having some hesitation about Dr. Spiegel. There are some people here who are complaining about him here in Houston. Any thoughts?

If I were you I would do a search on Spiegel's name here on LBT. I have a friend that used him and does not care for his professional ways or value him as a surgeon. He really did a number on her. I would NEVER recommend him to a friend or family or stranger. There are MANY qualified surgeons in the Houston area. Best of luck to finding what is best for you!

Dr. Spivak in Houston, TX is offering self pay for around $12,900 right now- I think it is a New Years price

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