Hello! I am new to all of this! Need lots of help.

autumnleaves · September 5, 2008

Hi, My name is Autumn. I am 28 years old and sick of being obese. I have a 10 month old little boy.

I decided today with the help of my DH and my mom that I should pursue the lap band. My insurance does not pay for it. I have already looked into a loan which I have secured. It is there for the next 6mo.

So now what? I know I need to contact the dr and get things started. But after consulting the dr what happens. Is there a lot of test, other specialist to see. About how long does it take to get a surgery date? Think I will have one within the 6mo before the loan is gone?

Thanks for any help. I hope to get to know everyone.

kiz · September 6, 2008

Hi Autumn, and welcome to LPT.

I know every office is different so it really depends on how your doctor schedules you. It took me three months from the time I went to the seminar to surgery. It could have been a little quicker, but I had scehuling conflicts. I had to see a pychologist $100), which was a very fast appointment. I also had to go to a free nutrition class with about 20 people who were all having the surgery. I also had to go to a self pay seminar, which went over what happens for self-payers. One thing they gave us, was a free insurance policy that would cover us in case of emergency during the surgery. Since we're self pay, our private insurance probably would not cover (ie heart attack during surgery). Approximately two weeks prior to surgery, I had an appointment with the doctor's office and hospital, for EKG, MRI, urine and blood tests and white scan (this also was covered under the by the cost of the surgery).

I hope your doctor's office moves quickly with you, and I figure they will, but if you call the doctor's office, I'm sure they'll outline everything you'll need to do.

Good Luck!!

Edited September 6, 2008 by kiz

bahotmomma · September 6, 2008

Autumn, I had my consult with my Dr. in early Dec 07 and I had surgery 1/2/08. That was just my Dr., plus I was a self pay. So I didn't have to do a lot of tests and such. What area are you in? DO you have a Dr. yet? Best of luck to you on this life changing journey.

autumnleaves · September 6, 2008

Thanks so much ladies!

Kiz-That is good they give emergency insurance. Never even thought about that.

Hot-That was quick!

I am actually not in all that big of a hurry. I was thinking Jan/Feb around income tax. But just making sure that all of this stuff can be done within 6 mo and yall have proven in can.

I am in Tx. I do have a dr but he doesnt know it yet. LOL I have chosen one just havent been to him.

Thanks for all the info.