This is a message from Sanmae which was posted elsewhere. I couldn't move it so I'm copying it.

Hello I am new on this site and would like to know more about the Lap Band. I am 5 6, 238lbs, female, age 55. I have gained 90 pounds in 5 yrs from steroids. I am off the drugs and now need helpppppppp. Can you tell me how long it takes to lose the weight? Is it a difficult proceedure and healing time? Can you go to work soon after? If you can help me I would appreciate it. Also, does BlueCross/Blue Sheild of S. Florida take the insurance?

Sandi

And this was my reply...

Sanmae....just a suggestion for you to post your thread under introductions so that everyone will notice it....

Just a littly FYI, I am 5'7" and started out at 235, in a 20-22 size pants and a XXL shirt. I am now in a size 12 pants and M-L shirt. I have lost a total of 65 lbs and have 20 to go. I was banded on Aug 20-03. I had my surgery on a wed and was back to work on Monday. A nurse told me just the other day that it takes up to 2 years for you to lose all the weight. Could be shorter, could be longer depending on if you eat nothing but sweets or if you eat your Protein first like the Doctor's suggest. As far as your insurance..i have no clue...Have a wonderful day!

Welcome Sanmae

Well, I was just banded on Jan 3rd, but I was ready for work one week later. The healing process was more rapid than I expected. However, my job doesn't require any lifting. I'm basically sitting down most of the day.

I have UHC but I've heard from others that Blue Cross may require a more extensive history before approving you. I'm sure you will get more bandsters writing in who have BCBS. Good Luck!!

Okay, I have BCBS in North Carolina and the Band is excluded. To be covered for Gastric Bypass is a hoop jumping tournament. I logged onto the BCBS website under member services, put in my info and got access to my plan coverage online. Then I entered the CDT(?) whatever code for Lap Band which is...43843 and my plan info came up. Excluded. So I'm looking into Mexico. Hope that info helps!

Sandi, good luck! Everyone loses weight at a different rate. Some go back to work quickly, others need more healing time. There is a lot of information available if you'll do a "search".

Welcome and glad you found us! I wish you lots of luck in your weight loss journey.