:tt2: I live in western Washington, my DH is retired Military as is one BIL. My DSis tells me over Thanksgiving that they are doing Lab-Band at Madigan and I should check into it. I tell my DH and he encourages me. I have no clue what to do. I call my primary Physician, see him, he says he is not sure but he'll hand it off to referral and diagnosis's me Obese. He says he was only doing that because I asked for the surgery. The people in Referral's came through. I have an appointment at Madigan 01-08-09 for a Group Evaluation. I still don't know what that is, but I'll be there.

I want to stop yo-yoing and can't think of another way.

WOW...Sounds like you're a bit unsure. Well, let me tell you about my experience. I like many of us on this site have been on every diet imaginable, I've been overweight my entire life, and was finally sick of it. I knew lap band would be my solution. I went to a seminar, found out information, then saw the surgeon, my primary for clearance, did 2 nutritional classes, 1 pre-op class and last Tuesday had my lap band put in. Of course I'm summarizing, this took at least 3 months to get to the surgery date. That's only because I self-paid. My insurance would not cover this surgery.

Anyway, I guess what I'm getting at is that you have to be sure that you really want to do this. It's a hard process like any other but in the long run will resolve the weight issues you're facing. Recovery for me hasn't been too hard, but it has taken me a few days to feel like I can move on my own again.

My suggestion would be to definitely go to the group session, read all the blogs you can on this site, they are super helpful, then dig deep within yourself and ask yourself is this something you really want to do for yourself. If so, the lap band is for you, if not you might think about other ways to resolve your weight issues.

Hope this helps you.

Hi there,

I agree with dlmyvette, you do sound confused - the post made by dlmyvette is full of great advice.

Take the time to make sure you understand this surgery and to make sure that you will be able to follow all the steps leading up to the surgery and after.

And what really worries me is "referral and diagnosis's me Obese. He says he was only doing that because I asked for the surgery."

Your doctor doesn't consider you obese and is only doing it because you asked him about the surgery? I really hope that is not the case.

Going into this surgery blind will lead you down a path of disappointment and frustration. So ask lots of questions and remember that this site is full of wonderful educated people who are willing to help you on your way- I have been lucky to find many to help me

Thank you so much for your replys. I may be unsure, I think I'm sort of confused. I usally have an idea and take 4-5 months to find out everything, then make plans and have no doubts. Surgery is a big step, but the process sounds like it takes awhile and I will either be sure or not take the step. I want help. I too have done all the diets, some 2-3 times. I lose, but I can not keep it off. My Doctor was probably just trying to make me feel better as I started crying during our dicussion. He's been my Dr. for 10 years & knows I have struggled. :thumbs_down:I think I have asked to have my thyroid checked at least 3 times.lol

I am here to learn.