Hi, My name is Carly I am 26 years old and have been overweight most of my life. I have decided to get the lap band after years of yo-yo dieting. Does anyone have any advice while waiting for my insurance to approve me?

Hi Lillysmom! Best of luck with your insurance approval! I am just over 4 months out from my surgery and I am really happy with my choice! I have lost 55 lbs since I was in your shoes and I couldn't believe back then it was possible!

My best advice while waiting for that approval is to do lots of research. Do you have a doctor already? Is he/she going to be the same one that gives you fills? I would make lots of lists (Im a list person!) of questions you have for your doctor and lists of things to get for your recovery period. Also, take some pictures of yourself before you have to do any pre-op diets. (That is one thing I wish I had was a true starting point picture, I lost 15lbs on my pre-op diet so I don't have that comparison from when I was at my heighest weight.)

Best of luck and keep in touch!