Hello All,

My name is Allyson and I am 25 years old. I currently live in Council Bluffs, IA. I have been overweight my entire life. My highest weight was in 2004 when I reached 291lbs. My weight has been a constant roller-coaster as long as I can remember. Currently I weigh 264. I have read and followed this site for quite some time. I am both motivated and encouraged by many of your stories. I never considered weight loss surgery as an option until I began to research the lap-band procedure.

My main questions are... how do I begin the process... I have been researching and I feel this is something I want to further explore. I have bcbs of iowa insurance and have read that many of you have been able to be approved. If not approved... I am willing to pay the cost out of pocket. I just want to know how you all began the process of finding a doctor, weighing the options, etc. I have tried weight watchers, atkins, slim fast, every diet IMAGINABLE. Some diets gae results... but only temporary. I am willing to travel for the sugery... have also heard good things about Malley Surgical in Kansas City.

Just needing a little guidance.

Thanks

Allyson

Hi Allison,

I would suggest, you talk to your family Doctor. they may know of a program. Or call your local hospital, and ask if they have a Bariatric program. I am thrilled with my band and have no regrets at all. I feel so much better, with only a 28lb drop. Good Luck and just ask if you need more info.

Anna

Go to Welcome to LAP-BAND.com

Find the seminar in your area then called and make an appointment.

Once you find out all you can about the surgeon then you can proceed.

Call your insurance company first and ask: Do you cover the adjustable lapband surgery? Make a note of the person you speak to because there was a place on the form that I submitted that ask for the person I spoke to at the insurance company.

Once you go to the seminar you will schedule an appointment there after the seminar. They gave me a packet and I had to fill it out and bring it back to your following appointment.

When you call your insurance they will tell you what is required from you if they are to approve the surgery.

I have bcbs of alabama and they required me to do a 6 month supervised weight loss program from either your primary doctor or your some other place. The 6 months has to consecutive. If you attend weight watchers they will need to see your weight and hight documented for 6 consecutive months. I had to also have 3 consecutive years of notations showing height and weight. It can be from different doctors but must be consecutive. I had to show a 1 time attempt at weight lose weather was successful or not.

You can also schedule an appointment with your primary docotor and get feed back from him. My doctor wrote a letter supporting my decision to have lap band surgery.

A person on www.lapbandtalk.com suggested that I read this book. I read the book and LOVED IT.

FIGHTING WIEGHT - Khalia Ali (Muhammand Ali

Read the book, you'll like it.

I hope this helps.

I wish you much success. Hope to see you the web site soon.

Thank you for the advice!

Thank you! Will do!