I have been considering lap band surgery for many years. In 2006, I got as far as the pre-apt with the surgeon before I chickened out. I guess I just buy into the same biases as others- that I should be able to do it without surgery-. While I haven't gained any weight since then, I haven't lost any either. My BMI is 41. I have insulin resistance and polycystic ovaries (so can't have children). At 36 years old, it seems like banding is the only way this is going to work. So-- I am back in the process. I have an apt. on the 10th for the 4 hour info meeting that you have to attend followed by an apt with the surgeon. My insurance pays for the procedure at 100% (minus my 10.00 copay) so that is a real plus for me. I still have to get together the 6 months of "medically supervised weight loss"- so it will likely be Sept before I can have the surgery.

I keep going back and forth- I worry most about 1) the port being obvious to others, 2) scarring, 3) complications, and 4) skin aprons post. I am hoping #4 will not be an issue for me as I lost 70 pounds in 6 1/2 months before and had no sagging (but that was in 2002). I am now the same weight I was when I started that 70 pound loss.

Anyway, I am reading the forum and building up my courage. I would be pleased to chat with any and all.

Thanks,

Melissa

I also had reservations and it took years to do it. I am thrilled I did. I am just starting my journey with the band. I put a lot of prayer into my decision and had a peace. I am now down 21 lbs only 12 days post op. Good luck to you.

I have been considering lap band surgery for many years. In 2006, I got as far as the pre-apt with the surgeon before I chickened out. I guess I just buy into the same biases as others- that I should be able to do it without surgery-. While I haven't gained any weight since then, I haven't lost any either. My BMI is 41. I have insulin resistance and polycystic ovaries (so can't have children). At 36 years old, it seems like banding is the only way this is going to work. So-- I am back in the process. I have an apt. on the 10th for the 4 hour info meeting that you have to attend followed by an apt with the surgeon. My insurance pays for the procedure at 100% (minus my 10.00 copay) so that is a real plus for me. I still have to get together the 6 months of "medically supervised weight loss"- so it will likely be Sept before I can have the surgery.

I keep going back and forth- I worry most about 1) the port being obvious to others, 2) scarring, 3) complications, and 4) skin aprons post. I am hoping #4 will not be an issue for me as I lost 70 pounds in 6 1/2 months before and had no sagging (but that was in 2002). I am now the same weight I was when I started that 70 pound loss.

Anyway, I am reading the forum and building up my courage. I would be pleased to chat with any and all.

Thanks,

Melissa

Hi Melissa! I have PCOS too and I have to tell you, this is the best decision I've ever made! I too tried to lose weight by just dieting and exercise and it worked many times. The problem is, I gained it all back plus more every time. It's been a decade of yo-yo dieting for me. The band is the only thing that has worked for me. I'm just starting to feel energetic again and it feels great. Good luck to you and I wish you the best!

Oh, I forgot to mention, there is a whole forum for PCOS. There is a lot of good info on there. Here's the link if you want to check it out PCOS Bandsters - Lap Band Talk Forum - The largest forum for Lap Band Surgery Discussion and Lap Band Surgery Support

hi Melissa and welcome to LBT. i'm glad Georgia pointed you to the PCOS support, there are some great ladies over there! :thumbup:

the port isnt very noticable, even some at goal have no issues, but some do. it really depends on where the surgeon puts it and how you are built.

personally, i think i'd rather have a slight buldge of the port than my huge tummy ... :Dancing_wub: