I have been considering the lap band for a long time, and attended my first seminar back in January. I went to my PCP, got a referral, got my psychological evaluation, met with the surgeon, and then just... stopped. I think that it was a combination of getting a bunch of confusing insurance statements that made me think I was thousands of dollars in the hole, and a consultation with a bariatrician who seemed to think I would fail no matter what. I decided that I wasn't in the right head space for a lap band.

And yet, several months later-- I have realized that without consciously trying, I've given up carbonated beverages, cut WAY back on alcohol (from 2-3 drinks per night to maybe 1-2 per week), slowed my eating pace, and started eating at home almost all of the time. I've also decided that my health is worth spending money on-- I'm a big saver, and it is very frightening for me to spend money, because I am afraid I will lose control or go bankrupt. However, my husband pointed out to me that my mother does the same thing-- never spends money on herself and is still miserable, and I realized that maybe being happy and healthy is more important than having a big fancy house or high bank balance. And so suddenly, the lap band seems doable again.

Part of me feels like I just needed to take a step back and take some time to decide to move forward, but part of me is still saying that it's selfish, that I'm just lazy and gluttonous and I shouldn't need surgery to lose weight... but those voices are getting quieter.

I guess, after all this rambling, what I really want to know is if anyone else experienced these roller coasters of emotion while going through the process. And if so, how did it work out for you? Any advice or guidance or sharing is very welcome. :thumbup:

I understand, I was being tossed from person to person, doctor to doctor test to test... and I kept thinking this isn't worth it - and would go home and eat a burger....(sad I know)... I also received confusing information and a long list of insurance information required by my surgeons office. I called my insurance and sat on the phone 3 - 5 hours several times a week trying to get answers. I finally went to my surgeons office and spoke to the billing lady and about started crying and she promised me that she would get the information. The next thing I heard is I got the approval, which it was cutting it close and had to take two more classes (Surgeons requirement) and did the clear liquid for 9 of the 10 days and had surgery less than 2 weeks later. Everything went quick once the insurance gave the approval... I did have special circumstances, my job was changing insurances the end of that month and the new insurance would not approve the surgery without several months of consistent weight loss. Which I had already met all the requirements of the 1st insurance company.

It was a mess, it was frustrating... I would not change a thing about my experience... and I LOVE my BAND -- Its like having kids...sometimes it doesn't listen, sometimes it makes you sick (like kids bring home stuff from school or daycare), and sometimes you are full up to here : ::reaches above head::

Get back in it, and whenever you get stuck try a different approach..

Good Luck!

I just wanted to thank you all for your words of wisdom. Hearing your stories has really made me feel better.

I'm headed to the bariatrician's appointment in a few minutes, and this time, I am mentally prepared to give the supervised diet my all. Just one more hoop... :thumbup:

I have been through everything you have and have come full circle. About a month ago I decided that I could do this on my own. Not sure what I was thinking since I have been overweight since I was a kid. I have finally decided that the lap band is for me and that I need to do this for my health. I got a date for October! Wish you much luck in your journey!

I have been through everything you have and have come full circle. About a month ago I decided that I could do this on my own. Not sure what I was thinking since I have been overweight since I was a kid. I have finally decided that the lap band is for me and that I need to do this for my health. I got a date for October! Wish you much luck in your journey!

I have got to say that I have also come full circle. I started doing all of the BC/BS mumbo jumbo they make you do starting last August. I am going for my EGD Wednesday then I will receive my surgery date. I am getting excited now! I have been overweight since I was a kid and I have come to realize that being "obese" is a disease. Just keep in mind that you are doing this for yourself and your health.:thumbup: