Well, I've been reading up on Lap Band for the last 6 months, so I guess it's about time to start talking to people about it! :eek:

I have a little over 200 pounds to lose, which I know is a huge amount, but there is no way I'm having my insides chopped into pieces (if I can prevent it), plus I'm only 27 and I plan on having a family someday (if the good Lord is willing)... the least invasive I think is the best way for me.

Sooooooooooooooooo, I'm just gathering info right now. My insurance doesn't kick in until January 1st and I have BC/BS, which covers WLS after the 6 months supervised diet. I plan on seeing my PCP shortly after the insurance kicks in so I can get the ball rolling. The nice thing is that the nurse practioner (who I usually see) had WLS surgery many years ago, so I'm thinking she'll be a great help to me.

So here's the question, for all of you that were at the stage I am now - the information gathering stage - is there anything you wished someone had told you before starting the insurance process and the doctor visits? Any tips? pointers? things I should be doing right now?

Thanks! I can't wait to get to know as many of you as possible!!!!

-FireDust

Welcome Firedust! All I would advise you to do is to read, read, read--everything you can get your hands on regarding Lap Band Surgery (and even Gastric Bypass--just to see what's going on in the WLS world).

Have you attended a seminar yet? That's your first step--it's totally free and you can ask all your questions of real professionals. Find a Bariatric Center or contact your surgeon and they will be able to line you up. It's the most informative 3 - 4 hours you can spend, other than online here!

Hi firedust,

We have a lot in common! I am 28, my new ins kicks in Jan 1st, and I have been reading and contemplating lap band for about a year now. I don't have quite as much to loose, about 80 lbs. I have been lurking on the boards for about 2 months, I am soooo anxious to get the process started that this helps me stay focused and motivated. I notice that most of the EXTREMELY successful bandsters are those that DO have a lot to loose, so the fact the you have 200lbs to loose might acctually contribute to your success! Welcome, we can count down to our NEW YEAR ans NEW YOU together. Keep me posted on your journey.

Thanks for the great advice Make33. I've been reading the forums like a crazy person. I know there seems to be some "bad" stuff, but I still think that the good far outweighs the bad stuff. I haven't been to the seminar yet, I was kind of waiting to talk with my PCP to see which program she thinks would be best for me (there are two major hospital, both with good programs that are about the same distance from here). How has your experience with the band been?

abeaher - I guess we really are in a similiar boat! I'm just waiting for that insurance card to come in the mail and then, look out world! It's so cool that we're both at the same point in the process, hopefully we'll be able to go through this together and share one heck of a journey!

Make sure you have a network of supportive people. It makes a world of difference. Be prepared for all the emotional stuff that comes along with the band. It can be a roller coaster! -and when it is, call on your network of supportive people to get you through.

I recently was banded. Its too early to tell if my band will lead to magnificent weight loss or not, though there are some things I'd do differently. My plan was to be off for one week. I had some minor complications, and had an extra day in the hospital. Instead of an overnight, it turned into two nights and the better part of the 3rd day.

Being home now for about a week, there is no way I'm up to working full time next week. I'm going to have to be out sick for at least a few days.

My caution to you wouldn't be to expect a two week non-work period, but rather to anticipate that it is possible you won't be able to or want to work for up to two weeks. Each surgery has its own life, ups and downs, making it difficult to predict how things will turn out.

My suggestion is try to prepare as long as you can reasonably have off after surgery, in case you need extra time. My pain is slowly subsiding, but too slow for my taste. Not fast enough for the allotted time I took off from work.

Thanks for the advice, guys! My appointment with my PCP will be in a few weeks and I'm getting a little nervous already...

welcome firedust!

Welcome Kiddo! We are totally here for you. We've been where you are and walked your walk. As you progress on your journey there will be TONS of folks (no pun intended) ready to take you by the hand and lead you down the path. There is no better teacher than experience.

You guys are all so great. I know I have a LONG road ahead, thankfully there are so many of you that have helped pave the way!