Hey Everyone I'm new to the site and the idea of a lap band. I have been interested but never thought it was possible. Now I am realizing that I can do this and I can change my whole life. But i'm not sure how long it takes to complete the pre-process to surgery. I am reading mixed things on the internet. I have a doctors appointment in 2 weeks to discuss everything, but if anyone knows about how long it takes to go from 1st dr. appt. to surgery please give me some hints. In the past I have had my 5 year exam plan thing with the diet/weight loss programs and medications. They all worked for about 3 months. I would continue the treatment but would begin to gain the weight back. Eventually all of the weight would be back and then some, and the dr. would pretty much give up. Nice, I know. So I think that this is the perfect solution. I am willing to exercise and eat right, which I do alot of now anyways, it just doesn't make a difference. I have struggled with my weight my whole life, and I am prepared to have it not be a horrible thing anymore. I have read online it can take up to 6 months before the dr. will allow you to get the surgery? Is this true? I hope not. If anyone knows the steps please give me some hints!!! Much appreciated!!:wink2:

Alot of it depends on your insurance company....some require a 6 month weight loss program...my insurance didn't...so from first Dr. appointment (April) to surgery date (June 23)everything went pretty smooth for me...my insurance only required documentation from my dr. of 2 comorbities and a BMI over 40...whatever your insurance company requires it's worth jumping through the hoops...listen to your dr. and find a good contact person to work with in your insurance co.

My process took from Feb to May. I had to attend a seminar get a referral from my primary care doctor. There are different requirements from insurance also. Some require different tests and approvals from cardio doctors. So be prepared for a few months.

BCBS does require the 6 month monitored diet, but if you have done one in the last two years that you can document, they will count it. I am in monthy 2 of my 6 month. It is annoying, but it is better than no insurance or having insurance that won't cover it at all. Good luck!

KJ

Assuming that you mean with coverage, I've heard of anywhere between 2 months-1 year, depending on your coverage/company. My Blue Cross would have covered Lap Band, but just as I started to make appointments I lost my (10 yr) job! So now I'm going to Mexico for $7950 and self paying. If you decide to go this route, you can schedule your appointment in about 2-4 weeks. I scheduled mine about 1 month beforehand...keeping in mind that I'd have to lose the 12LBs. first. Good Luck to you!