There is certainly no worry about jumping into the lap band procedure without having enough time for research! I have been to 2 support group meetings, missed the one at Christmas and soon will go to my 3rd, which would mean 4 months.

I have met with my primary care, and received a referral letter. Then to see the Psych Dr., Dietician, Surgeon, sleep doctor. Now I am scheduled for Sleep Clinic on February 6th. THEN WHAT?

I was hoping to be on my way by now. Did the process take this long for everyone?

Ms. M

Ms.M- Hi! I attended a seminar in September and did all my necessary appointments(dietician,primary care MD, gastroenterologist, psychiatrist,cardiologist etc.) I received a call from the surgeons office right after the New Year that everything was all set and I received a date-1/30/07. So it took me about 4 months. Best of luck to you! Gigi

You aren't the only one, Ms. M. I went to my seminar on November 4th, and I was hoping to get approved for surgery before the end of the year. That didn't happen. It has been a case of "one step forward, two steps back" for me. Went to the seminar, had to wait a few weeks for appointments with my doctors to talk with them about writing me referral letters. Got that done, then found out I had to get clearance from a pulmonologist. Had that taken care of, but their office had trouble faxing the report to the right number at the surgeon's office. They finally got it, and supposedly faxed off my paperwork to insurance. Almost three weeks later, I find out that insurance never got it because the fax number was old. It's very frustrating, but I just try to remember that it will happen.

Ms. M.

I think I would have changed my mind if I had to wait so long. You are very dilligent! I've been to two seminars, and scheduled for surgery on the 12th. Considered it for a long time since my Daughter's had it done a year ago. I guess we don't meet with all the specialists like you do. They just took turns talking at the second seminar. Maybe that takes the place of all the visits? Wonder if it is totally different if you are going through your nsurance? Seems like they couldn't get me in fast enough if they don't need all the red tape. Hang in there..almost your turn!