About 1 year ago I mentioned to my soon to be husband that I was starting to think of getting a LB. Since as long as I can remember I have been over weight. I think the lowest I can remember was in High School and I weighted 175. Today I am 34, 5ft 8, and weight 308, my highest was 320. 2 years ago I went on strict Atkins and exercise and lost 70 lbs just to gain it back.

After trying to many diets, Nutrisystem, Atkins, Weight watchers, even hypnosis, nothing seems to give last results.

About a month ago I talked to my hubby and we decided to look into weight loss sugery. I say we because it is important that he support me, so he is going to be right along side me the entire way.

I called my insurance, I have 2, one from my job and 1 from his. I have Aetna and Tricare. Friday, I am going to meet with my Primary care to have him write a referral. My insurance company says that is the first step.

I have very high blood pressure, and have to take 2 pills a day just to control it. So I believe that I meet the criteria. I believe that the lap band is the way to go because it is less invasive as well as is adjustable. I love the fact that it can be out patient in some cases. Weight is such a private issue, and I would like to keep this private until I am ready to tell the rest of my family.

Can anyone make any suggestions as to what I need to bring to my PCP? Or have idea that might assist in getting an approval from Aetna.

Any information would be wonderful. I also live in Rockledge, Florida so if anyone has had this done and or can recommend a surgeon that would be helpful as well.

Congrats on your decision.. I've been banded since 11/28/06.. starting weight 237 now 208... goal weight 160. My surgeon is in Houston, TX-- his website is www.bandmd.com His name is Dr. Hadar Spivak.. He is agreat surgeon.. My sister was banded by in feb. 2005 (she has lost 102 lbs) and my friend was banded by him and has lost 70 lbs. They both look great and feel great too! Good luck to you and make sure that you are very comfortable with the surgeon that you pick

Congratulations on your decision to be banded...that is wonderful..I was banded in Texas, so I can't help you with the surgeon in your area...I was also a self-pay, so I can't help with the insurance info...you are probably wondering why I even posted...lol.....because I wanted to welcome you to the site.....and I hope all goes well for you....

I live in Jacksonville, Florida and last week went to a seminar (free one) w/ Dr. Paul Chappano at St. Vincent's Hospital. He sounded wonderful. I am planning on getting banded by him in July. He does except Aetna. I on the other hand have to private pay (insur. does not cover this). I'm not sure how far you live from here. I know somewhere in Ocala they do it too. Not sure who it is. Let me know if I can help anymore.