Hi!

I'm Marci, 41, and currently live in VA. I'm having my lapband done in Detroit tho. Does this mean I have to have all my fills done there also? What does the pre-op diet consist of and how long is it? My BMI is 38 - if I lose enuf before the surgery, does that negate my surgery if I fall below 35?

I'm so depressed right now at my weight gain. I've always been overweight but got into shape while I was in the Army. Then I gained it back and then I lost 30 lbs in 4 months after my husband passed away 18 mths ago. Since then, I've steadily been gaining - over 70 lbs in the past year! And the thing is: I"M AN RD! I KNOW these things in my head, it's just doing them that's killing me. I've been off/on many diet over the past few months and don't relish the thought of yo-yo'ing again. So I thought I'd check out the lapband.My problem is: Who am I going to get to fill it? I'm not going to MI each time I need it filled. And do doctors who don't perform the surgery actually fill them?

Thanks for my listening to me ramble. Just wanted to say hey!

To sort of answer your question about fills, you really need to start checking with the doctors in your area to find out if they will accept patients banded by someone else. Some doctors will, but they may require a lot from you (money wise or medical records). It is best to find that information out now before banding. You may also find out if there are fill centers in your area. I know that isn't specific, but each doctor's office handles that situation differently. As far as your BMI, most doctors and insurance only count your BMI at the start. So if your BMI was 38 at your consult, that is usually the BMI used for insurance purposes, but to find out for sure, ask your doctor's office. Good luck to you!

Hi, Marci;

Welcome to the Board!

I'm curious, why are you having your band done in Detroit if you live in VA?

I am very much an advocate of people having their Band/WLS done at a facility near where they live, or within a reasonable distance. Not only for the convenience of the fills, but in the event something goes wrong, you will have easier access to the guy who put it in.

Is there some particular reason Detroit is your choice?

HH

HH:

What if I may ask did you not like about your band??