First of all, my apologies if this has been posted a millions times, or that I've overlooked it. I'm rather new to this entire thing and well, you guys seem so nice and welcoming, I'm hoping that you'll forgive me this time if I've done something wrong.

I recently heard about the LB procedure a couple of days ago, and I just started researching today. Here's my question(s). If I'm interested...what's my first step? Where would I go from here?

Check with insurance? Go to my physician? Make an appointment with a surgeon?

Thanks you guys!

Courtney

Read a lot here! There is a wealth of info.

I'd check with my insurance. If they cover it, they may have certain surgeons they will cover, so that would help guide you to a surgeon. Find surgeons in your area who do lab-banding and attend their seminars, if they have them. Most do, and they are mostly free. Also, I think there are forums here for different states, look and ask in yours for names.

And welcome, this is a VERY helpful place.

Hey Court

Welcome!

I would say the first step, after reading here a whole bunch, would be to go to a local doc's informational seminar.

If there is a local center that specializes in LapBand nearby - they will surely have regular seminars.

The seminar gives you the chance to ask questions of doctors and usually at least one prior patient.

They will also discuss costs of surgery if you self-pay.

I did a lot of research here - and obviously continue to hang out here - but the seminar was really the first official step. From there, I scheduled my first consult with the doc and got started on my pre-op testing.

Good luck!!

Lisah25: Thanks for the information. I've been reading and reading everything I can get my hands on, and so far, I'm feeling positive. I'm going to be giving a call to my insurance provider today when I get off of work, to get a basic idea before I schedule an appointment with a specialist.

Renebean: Unfortunately, the closest seminar is one state away and a 2 1/2 hour drive. Should I consult my family physician first, and see if she could recommend someone? I've been back and forth from www.lapband.com and www.myuhc.com to compare doctors, and there's just one doctor that is covered by my insurance, and listed on the LB website. I wonder if I should just make an appointment with him?

Again, thanks for the welcome, you guys.

Courtney

Yes - if there is only one surgeon on the approved list for your insurance - then go for it. Schedule with him.

If you need to do more, then he will tell you.

Good Luck!!