I do not yet have a surgery date, but have had most of my tests done as well as my psych eval too. I was surprised to find that I am diabetic. Although I have been overweight most of my life, I have not had any health issues. Even while pregnant I always had healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Wow!

It's not likely that my insurance will pay since my BMI is 39, but has done the yo-yo thing between 35 and 39 for years. I have Cigna and they require 2 years above 35 AND at least 2 co-morbidities. I have 1, the diabetes, so my doctor is working to see if the insurance will cover a sleep study. We're still going to submit, just in case we get lucky.

Otherwise, I'll be self-pay at the Weight Loss Institute of Arizona. I've chosen Dr. De Barros to do the surgery. One thing I can say for those who are self-pay is NEGOTIATE the price. I was able to take about $1400 off my total expenses through negotiation. I did my research and was able to compare the prices at other locations. WLIA is one of the most expensive places in AZ, but I like the Dr.'s and its location is convenient for me.

Whew! That is a long intro thread.

Hi and welcome to LBT! Congratulations on the decision to get your band. Hope everything works out for you and you are banded soon!

Hey, azbanded! Welcome! I am also a patient of Dr. DeBarros. Please keep us updated on your progress. Good luck!

Hello, I am new to this and very excited about having the banding done. My insurance will not pay for the banding to be done. I have a friend that went to Mexico to have it done for 1/2 the price as how much it is near me. I was very skeptical because I work for 2 doctors here that are realling frowing on the idea. I have done my research and it is something I can afford now at the price in Mexico and not in US. Hope to be letting everyone know of my surgery date soon.

Congrats to you all and I wish you luck!

Welcome!

Im also a patient of Dr. DeBarros. I was self-pay.

SE Elaine-I didn't know you were also!

Welcome!

Im also a patient of Dr. DeBarros. I was self-pay.

SE Elaine-I didn't know you were also!

Yup, sure am! I'm also self-pay.

It looks like you are making amazing progress-- nice job! :scared2:

Thanks! Looks like you just celebrated one-year post op! How are you doing? How many fills have you had?

Hi and welcome to LBT! Congratulations on the decision to get your band. Hope everything works out for you and you are banded soon!

Hey Kathystrick,,,,,,marystrick here,,,,,,im still working on it, but am closer all the time. I cant wait. I am so encouraged reading all the great replys on here.........i saw the psyco dr yesterday.....woo hoo,,,,he assured me im not a fruitcake

I had my surgery done in Mexico by Dr Kuri. . .and I wouldn't change a thing! All the doctor's and staff were great! The only thing I do suggest when going to Mexico. . .have someone stay in the room with you. That is one thing I did not do and with the language barrier it was a little difficult. By the hospital I went to was ALOT cleaner than here in the US. No worries!!!

Welcome to the board Kathy! Congrats on your decision, you will be glad you did it.:wink2: