Hello all,

My name is Samantha (Sam) and I've been considering gastric surgery for years now. I feel that the sleeve may be my best option as I hear it is relatively low maintenance post-op. I am looking to lose about 80-100 pounds. I am 27, 5'10" and 270 lbs, although I do not "look it". I used to be so athletic and fit and unfortunately, due to depression, injury, and PCOS, I have packed it on. My PCOS also makes it extremely difficult to lose weight.

I was wondering, what is the process? From beginning to end? How do I get started? Anyone in my similar situation? My husband and I do not have any children, but would like to start trying in about a year or so. Does the sleeve affect pregnancy? How long is recovery?

ANY information is appreciated and welcomed. I apologize for all of the silly questions, I'm just lost and confused as to how to start this journey and if it is possible.

Thanks

Google local bariatric surgeons many have free seminars for potential new patients. And they'll gladly walk you through the process and answer all your questions

Yep, I went to a Bariatric surgery seminar in January with my mom. They were very thorough and gave us a packet that listed everything that was expected of us. At the end of the seminar we could opt to make a consultation appointment with a surgeon if we wanted to. It was very easy and straight forward. After the surgeon consultation I could then pay a fee to start the program and my six month pre-op journey started with my dietitian appointment. I started the process in January technically but my program didn't begin until March.

I also did a seminar. They gave us all the information, I needed to contact my ins co make sure this was covered, get a letter from my pcp and meet the surgeon. There office has been great. You will see a dietician, (I saw mine a few times) have a psychologist meeting and then your ready. Research everything you can and just know this is YOUR choice no one else's. this is a commitment we all need to make personally. Know it's scary as anything (my surgery is scheduled aug 1) but I feel ready. Good luck in whatever you choose!

Yep, I went to a Bariatric surgery seminar in January with my mom. They were very thorough and gave us a packet that listed everything that was expected of us. At the end of the seminar we could opt to make a consultation appointment with a surgeon if we wanted to. It was very easy and straight forward. After the surgeon consultation I could then pay a fee to start the program and my six month pre-op journey started with my dietitian appointment. I started the process in January technically but my program didn't begin until March.

How much was the fee to start the program? Did you pay out of pocket or did insurance cover it?

So far out of pocket foe me has been $500. I don't know what it will be with the insurance.

I went to a seminar also. I paid $250 consultation paperwork fee and my co-pay for seeing a specialist. That was it. I had already met my out of pocket and I paid nothing else.