I'm helping my sister learn more about the lap band procedure. Her doctor told her she will need an evaluation by a psychologist before he will approve her. From what I've read on the internet, it is a common requirement, but insurance likely won't pay for it.

Does anyone know how much the psychology exam costs in the Long Island area? Any recommendations for doctors who do it?

Can anyone who has done it tell me a little about the exam?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

First off, your sister is very lucky to have you as her support team.

I am going thru Dr. Geiss' office and while they have their own 'preferred' psychologists that they'd like for you to go thru you can go to any in-network psych if you choose to.

I paid $250 for the 1-hr appt. We dabbled in my personal history, what kind of support system I have, what do I expect from the surgery, and what my current eating habits are, and if I'd had any eating disorders in the past. They just want to make sure that you are in the right mind-set and don't have unrealistic expectations of what this surgery will do.

If you'd like the name/number of the 2 psychs on Dr. Geiss' list you can PM me and I'll provide them to you.

Good Luck to your Sister.

I wanted to know if you had the lap yet and how you are doing. I am going to have my lap done with Dr. Geiss on 8/24/08 cant wait but very nervous-tell all-Elisa

Hi Elisa. My surgery is on August 21. I'm just counting down the days right now.

Good luck to you.

I wanted to know if you had the lap yet and how you are doing. I am going to have my lap done with Dr. Geiss on 8/24/08 cant wait but very nervous-tell all-Elisa

Hi Elisa, Welcome!!

I was banded by Dr Powers. He is Dr Geiss's partner. We have a Long Island thread if you are interested. Just look down the New York list.