Hi, I am from Georgia and have struggled for so many years with overweight. I have tried everything more than twice to lose it!

Today is my consult with Dr. Bagnato of Albany, Georgia. I could lose 100 pounds and be at a comfy weight. My problem is that I have no medical conditions related to being fat so I am going to be self-pay for this at the tune of $17,400. It is a lot of money, but my hubby and I discussed it and it is the choice we have made.

My husband is a wonderful person, I know my weight bothers him, but he has never tried to shame me over it. I have gained approx. 50 pounds since we met 4 1/2 years ago.

I would invite anyone to tell me their experiences, any advice, just anything they can share to let me know what to expect from this surgery.

Thanks.

Hi Paragirl! Welcome to LBT!

I, too, am a self-pay bander. My insurance doesn't cover any weight related procedures. Frustrating, isn't it?

I was banded on May 21 of this year. It has been less than two months and I am feeling great. I am down 50 pounds from what I weighed in at on my first appt. I would do it again in a heartbeat. It's not easy, but seeing the progress I've made this far keeps me motivated.

Good luck to you! I hope all goes well for you today!

Good luck to you. It will be worth every penny. I too was self pay.

I pay Anthem BC/BS 700.00 per month for insurance for hubby and me and they wouldn[t pay a dime. I went to Mexico and had the most world reknown surgeon who'd done over 7000 and the biggest, nicest hospital and wonderful aftercare and wouldn't change a thing. You will be so proud you did this. I was only out 8500.00 but it's still the best thing I ever did for myself. I will be thinking about you and keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Many of us self payers here have gone to Mexico for surgery. As long as you do your homework, you can find a really good doctor there and have surgery at less than half that price.

I had a great experince in Mexicali Mexico, Dr Aceves checked on me and three others (who was banded the same day) twice a day after the surgrey, everyone spoked English, and the hospital was very clean. You should check him out. I will be going back for my fills. Before the surgery they e-mail me viedos to watch. and I could e-mail questions before and after and they answer me. Great customer service.

Little Shirl

Welcome to lapband talk forum. I love being banded. My weight loss is just average at 50 lbs this year. The band is simply a tool. Don't expect rapid weight loss. Some bandsters lose really fast but you may be average like me. Just follow the rules, exercise and enjoy being banded.

I could have written your post, only I've gained 100 pounds since meeting my husband 8 years ago. :confused: We decided to finance the surgery here in the US and the aftercare is included (free fills). I know it's a hard decision....hard to let go of all that money, but it will be worth it to "have your life back!"

Good luck,

Toni