Considering having the surgery and it's very scary to me to be even having this conversation. I never thought I would get to this point, like I'm sure a lot of others thought too. I'm excited and nervous. My problem is, I have NO idea where to start! I'm hoping I can hear some stories of where others have started and know where to go from here. I'm currently in the middle of switching insurance plans (hopefully to a better one) through my work. I just feel so lost

*sending smoke signals*

Thank you in advance

TaylorBolander,

Weight loss surgery is a HUGE deal and a LONG process.

You say you want to hear others’ stories: mine, briefly, is that I was overweight and struggling with food for much of my life. My overweight friend got the lap-band and it worked for him, and I decided to get it. That was 12 years ago, and I couldn’t be happier with my life. My weight has stayed off and I have so much energy and ability to enjoy life.

As for getting started, there are a lot of things to think about, like which surgery type (bypass, sleeve, band, or something else) you might want. Also, whether you want surgery at all! What do you hope surgery will do for you, and are you ready and able to follow the necessary diet for life to get healthy and lose weight and keep it off?

Your insurance will have a large role to play in choosing a surgeon and maybe even a surgery type. If your insurance covers it, you may be limited to only a few surgeons.

As you work on changing your health insurance, you can do a ton of research on your own, by doing internet searches and (like you’re doing!) hanging out on weight loss surgery forums to read and ask questions. You can also talk to your primary care doctor or another doctor.

Good luck with your decision and journey!