Well I did it. After talking in the chat room and reading a lot of threads I decided to start the process of getting the band. About a year ago my doctor wanted to set me up for a consult with a surgeon. I didn't want to be cut up and I was going to be gone for over 4 months for training so I told him no. I have been researching the procedure for about a year now and still didn't think it was for me. I found this website and started reading about everyones experiences and how the band changed their life. After reading real people talk about their real experiences I realized the band is the perfect option for me. I was to thank everyone for helping come to my decision.

The reason for this thread is because I am wanting to know what to expect on the first visit with the surgeon? Is there any question I should ask? Any suggestions would be very helpful.

My first visit to meet my surgeon I was also scheduled to meet with a dietition, nurse and financial agent all in the same building.

The surgeon just asked what surgery I was interested in and why. He asked me some health questions and then he went over what the band was about and how it worked. It was an informative visit but I didn't ask any involved questions that day. I just wanted to meet the surgeon and his staff and find out more about how he performs the procedure. He was very personable and answered all my questions that I had. Mainly just go in and answer their questions and listen to what they have to tell you. Pretty informal in my case.

I had to attend a seminar before my first visit. You need to know some background before you know what to ask!

If you have the time and are the research type, in lieu of a seminar, buy a book on gastric lap band and read up. Then you'll have an info base and will know what is important to you! Half price book stores etc should have an array, as well as places like Barnes and Noble or Amazon.

Hello....

I have not been banded yet. I first went to a seminar, after the seminar, I had a consultation at the surgeon's office to go over more information such as what surgery I was interested in and how much the cost would be as well as the process.

Next week I have the appointment with the surgeon so lets see how that goes. I'm looking forward to getting this process a long and ready for surgery!

I went to an information seminar on October 14 and then met with my PCP on October 24. I now have a consult with the surgeon on November 25. Sometimes it seems like forever to get the process going but once its going then time flies!!!!