I have just found this site and am considering the lap band...I have been reading the threads here and am very encouraged...However, I have not chosen a Dr or a clinic..was wondering if anyone here is from the midwest (USA) and would have some insight on where to go? I am taking my time and doing the research! Also, need to find out if my insurance will pay!

I have been through the testing, testing and more testing. I have been approved by the surgical team however, I have GERD. The Dr. wants to talk with me on Wed. Next step is waiting for insurance approval. Dr. doesn't think that will be a problem.

Anyone else have GERD. From what I have read. The LBD improves this situation. I will be having the surgery with Dr. Kermode in Grinnell. Hopefully before Christmas.:nervous

Ask Dr. Malley if he grew up in Wisconsin, my sister went to school K -12 with a Steve Malley who went on to become a doctor, just curioius. I am from Northern WI, had my surgery 4 weeks ago in Duluth, MN anyone else have surgery in Duluth?

Glad to see some other midwesterners and Iowans on this board. I live near Sioux City Iowa and will be banded by Dr. Wolpert. I have to wait until I hear from insurance to set the date, but I have seen the pshyc., met with the team, and I am currently attending my support meetings. I am hoping to be banded by the end of October or first week of November.

Hi, I too am from the midwest. Between Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, Iowa. I am going to Dr. Kermode in Grinnell, Iowa. I have been approved and am meeting him for the 2nd time on Wednesday. The next thing for me is waiting for insurance. They didn't think it would be a problem.

How soon do you feel "back to your self after the surgery? I have also had a problem with retaining Fluid. Hope that will go away too. I was exercising regularly, but haven't in about a month. Need to get back. This is a great forumn.

I was banded by Dr. Galvani at the University of Illinois on August 28. I have lost 37 pounds - 15 preop on liquids and 22 post op. I highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for a realistic, competent surgeon. His diet philosopy is a little different. He want me to eat a variety of normal foods, not pureed. He believes you eat more when the food pureed and slides more easily through the band. It's working well for me. I have not had any discomfort at all and I find I don't have any problems with the foods I am choosing. I has a piece of filet mignon last week. I know people complain they have a hard time with steak, but I did not. Good luck to any of you who are waiting to have surgery. It was the best decision I ever made.:clap2: