Hi Everyone, my name is Angel. I am 24 years old, I have a little boy who is 2 now. I do not have a date scheduled yet, I am just looking for more information on LapBand and everything that goes with getting the procedure done.

Thanks and Hi again!! :biggrin:

Hey there Angel - Well, a lot depends on how you're getting the band (insurance/self-pay). With the self-pay it's a lot quicker in most cases. Insurance depends upon which insurance you're going through.

I have been banded for 7 months now and I went through Kaiser in No. Cal. I was on their 1200 calorie pre-op diet for 6 months prior to surgery and lost 70 of the 119 pounds I've lost on that. If you're going through insurance you may be required to do a 3 - 6 month doctor's supervised diet. They are trying to figure out if you will follow the plan and also they are trying to shrink your liver. Again, it depends on how you're paying for the surgery.

Having the lap band and finally getting to the place where the restriction is just right for me is such a blessing. I traveled without my food scale for the first time this last weekend and was terrified that I gained weight. But I listened to my band and when she whispered to quit eating I did and she took really good care of me. Notice that I said whispered. A lot of people think that they are supposed to have this band that puts a strangle hold on their stomach. They tend to get too tight because of this. Restriction is a feeling of satisfaction not a punishment for eating. If the band is yelling at you, you've gone too far.

One of the things I love about the band is there is very little I can't eat. I eat like a normal person in smaller amounts. Surprisingly since I don't feel like a failure anymore, I don't seem to binge eat anymore. Success has really changed my attitude about food. Also, when I eat the dense Protein and fruits/veggies for the day, I don't feel like I need the junk. I will usually grab some chicken strips at KFC if I'm absolutely in a pinch and can only eat one. Yeah, it's not the best of food but like I said I only do it in a pinch.

I've been blessed in the fact that I have not had any complications with my band. I try to keep an eye on what and how I eat so that I'm trouble free.

The surgery is pretty simple but you'll have to not lift your 2 year old for a few days. The surgeon will tell you for how long. This does not stop you from sitting on a chair/couch and having him come into your lap for some loving.

Other than that, ask some more specific questions and get us some more information on how you're going to pay and we should be able to help you more.

Good luck on your journey and hopefully it will be a quick one for you.

Vicki

One of the things I love about the band is there is very little I can't eat. I eat like a normal person in smaller amounts.

I am glad that you said that, I was getting worried that I would be on a mushy kind of diet forever after the surgery.

I just called the doctor and I have to attend the seminar on August 16th!!!!! :biggrin: I am getting really excited now!! I know it will probably be a while before I actually have the surgery but at least the first step is scheduled!

Angel - If you have to be on a mushy diet forever, you're too tight. You will have to spend some time on liquids, full liquids and then soft foods. Each doctor is different on how long they want you on it but it's not forever. Sometimes it seems like that because we get bored with it. LOL

Congratulations on your seminar date. It will speed by. Are you self pay?

Vicki

Congratulations on starting the process, and best of luck to you.

Vicki J

I just joined, and I wanted to let you know that your response to Angel Mae was very helpful to me. Thank you

Well thank you, whippoorwillow. Let me know if I can answer any questions for you. Where are you in the process?

Vicki

Hello Angel I am new here also. I am not scheduled to get the lapband yet either, but looking for info. Just wanted to say hi because I am 26 today, and I have a 3 year old son. Sounds like we have some stuff in common.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMANDA!!!! Welcome aboard!!!

Vicki

Well thank you, whippoorwillow. Let me know if I can answer any questions for you. Where are you in the process?

Vicki

Vicki J

I"m scheduled for August 11. I've just introduced myself in the INTRODUCTION forum.

WW

WW - Congratulations and I guess I'll have to go check you out. LOL

Vicki

Vicki,

Thanks for the info. No I am not self-pay, I have to go through my insurance company.

Amanda,

Hi! It does sound like we have a lot in common! And Happy Birthday!:wink2:

Yeah, I realized that after I asked. Which Kaiser are you going through? I went to SSF.

Vicki