Hi all,

I am scheduled to have band surgery on 28th Feb. I have decided to tell noone except my daughter as I am not confident that people will be supportive. I am so pleased that I have found this site. I think I will need the support and it is so great to hear that everyone is happy with their decision to have a band as I am starting to wonder what I have done!!!

Welcome and good luck with the surgery. I chose not to tell anyone besides the 2 people closest to me and don't regret that decision one bit. It's best to do what you feel will work best for your success.

Thanks, I think it is the best decision for me. I am just starting to worry a little about getting home from hospital etc. How much pain can I expect? I am planning to get a taxi home from teh hospital on my own.

Hi there, I am also from the U.K but now live in Quebec, canada. I was banded last year July 26th, best thing I have ever done, I feel great, sleep better, more energy. Buying new clothes is actually fun now. I wish you all the best, its a great decision you have made. Amanda

Hi there,Im also from Birmingham! Hope your banding went ahead and that you are feeling ok.Im due to be banded tomorrow!!!! Im getting well nervous now.

HELLO FRIENDS FROM THE UK!! MY SISTER LIVES IN BIRMINGHAM AND SHE IS INTERESTED IN GETTING BANDED. WHAT DOCTORS ARE YOU ALL USING. DO YOU NEED INSURANCE. HOW DOES IT WORK IN THE UK.

I went with the Hospital group and used Dr Sigurssdon. I have no complaints so far. It cost £7000. No Insurance company will pay for it over here and you woudl be very lucky to get it on the NHS. However, I have heard of a site called 'whygoabroad.co.uk' which apparantly offers the op for £5000. I am not sure what aftercare you get though.

try healthierweight - its based in birmingham and the whole surgery is just about weight loss.

their surgons have done over 6000 lap bands and Dr ashton is one of the worlds most respected specialists in obeseity and its treatment. - they have been using the lap band for 12 years.

its more expensive (about 15% more) but you get what you pay for. Ive been very happy with them.

I'd go with them - also its unlimited fills for free in first 18 months - and has great aftercare, support groups, diet advice, 24 hr emergency care etc

Hi,I wnt with Surgicare based in Birmingham, cost £8000 self pay as no help from NHS available. I think these were slightly dearer than others but no complaints, great staff,doctors and hospital.Not much pain,2 years aftercare included.