Hi All,

I'm seriously considering the LapBand surgery. I called one place so far and they have a Medicare waiting list (about 1 yr). I am 47 yrs old with diabetes, sleep apnea, degenerative disc disease, GERD, etc. At 5'7" and 260#, I am in almost constant pain. I've been on several courses of steroids over the years for my back/spinal fusion. All they seemed to do was to add a lot of weight.

I guess since Medicare's reimbursement is very low, the docs only do a certain # each month. I'm going to try the hospital route.

What are some things I need to consider when making my decision to have this surgery?

Thanks & God Bless!

~~~Kat

Hi Kitty,

hmmm, what things do you need to consider... well first of all your in the right place, this is where I started to gather information. Read, read, read some more. There is a wealth of info, both good and bad. Read all sides of the experience.

Before my band I thought I would have a rougher time of things, but I have not been sick, throwing up, pb'ing, sliming, or gasy. Just that the weight loss is really, really slow for me.

I had to make a commitment to give up smoking and start exercising, which I did and am down a full comfortable dress size because of my new found commitment to self, life and my family.

I read some scary "fill" stories, but mine were very uneventful. The first one took a few pokes but I was numb so it was no big deal, the second left me bruised, but again I felt nothing so who cares. I just had my third one and I am starting to feel restricted. At this point I can eat small meals and become satisfied..without having to give up anything I really love!

I am glad I did it, glad it was available, glad to just feel better about life and not cry when I look in the mirror. I have not lost a lot of weight, but I can see the progress and that us all I can ask for right now. I wish you the best in making your decision... The only time I felt sick was when I woke up after the surgery...that's it.

Lana