I'm doing research on whether the LB is for me. I'm going for a seminar tonight in Everett WA. Has anyone gone there that can relay some of their experience? I'm so excited about tonight.

I'd most likely be a self-payer. My main question today is how long does it take to schedule and actually get the band?

Did you go to NWWLS? There are several of us who have been banded there, I am totally happy with the surgery and service. Any specific questions?

I was just banded three days ago. I'm totally happy with the surgery and their staff. My husband went to take me home and they let him visit in the back room with me until they were ready to walk me into the surgical area. I can tell you this...I was not expecting to walk myself into the OR...that was weird! My husband commented that it didn't feel like a hospital at all and he really liked that. He would have been more nervous in a hospital, but NWWLS has calm personality and they are welcoming to any support that comes along. I got lots of attention and they all laughed at my jokes.

I had minimul shoulder pain and only on the first day. I walked every hour for 10-20 minutes, and did lots of deep breathing exercises. I felt pressure below my sternum like one big gas bubble. The next day, the shoulder didn't hurt, but burping does! not in a biiig way, but I'm hoping that feeling will subside, or that I'll get used to it. NWWLS called the next day to make sure all my bandages were okay and to make sure I was doing well on moving around ( to prevent blood clots and shoulder and gas pains) and staying hydrated.

i was impressed, and I would recommend that center in a heartbeat. They also have monthly support meetings, so I'm going to keep going to those.