I got mine at the end of January. I was ready to go in November 2009, but I had to wait for the new year for my flex med insurance to kick in. If I could have done it in November I would have! I gained 10 pounds over the holidays and if I would have had my band, I probably would've lost 10. I'm 7 months in and I've lost about 64 pounds. Go for it, girl!!

I am 3 weeks post op and gotta say I feel the best today and it is only getting better! I would definatly agree with LoseIt! and what is 1 holiday compared with the rest of your life!

I also have to laugh because when I did that huge psych evaluation after all that, he said that I am outgoing and anxious! I said, well that sums me up pretty good... (here's $650 !)

Good luck and can't wait to see how it goes for you!

64 pounds, LoseIt! That is FANTASTIC! I bet you feel fabulous, too. I really can not wait!

And, grigg4, I am excited to hear what the doctor says about me :-) I have looked at the doctor several times and thought he has an easy job for the $...lol. How are you feeling post op?

I think insurance requires a psych eval so they make it part of the process? At least that is what I've seen. A good eval would determine if there is any post-surgical support follow up required. Mine was about 20 questions with standard responses. Took 15 mins and was kind of funny actually. All the responses required were yes or no. I wonder what would have happened if I said none of the above? LOL.

I was banded 4 Jan 10, and I don't think I could have went through an eval like you all. Of course I am in South Korea and all I was concerned was, how much and how long does it take and finally when can we do it. Yep those were my only questions. Only pre surgery was cholesteral level was high-he prescribed some meds on 4 Dec and by 4 Jan my surgery date, my level was ok. My wife and her sister coordinated my surgery due to language barrier, but the doc's and staff do speak English-yes. One Great Doc and fabulous staff too I might add. Recently had my 4th fill, and I expected to pay but guess what--it was free, love my doc's and staff. Oh I was allowed to eat up untill 1200 mid-night the night prior to my surgery. I went with the family to OUTBACK'S and had steak and salad. MY LAST GOOD MEAL! So I thought. Even banded, one can enjoy some dining, but at a much smaller scale-like a cup here and there of one or two items. Still not bad. The band helps curb the appetitie and when restriction is evident, you know it. At one point in my journey I tested the limits and not surprized, the band won-my bad. I am now enjoying my band, I love my band, and I do weight myself every morning. If I splurge some on eating, I don't get discouraged and resort back to the basics-soups, mushies, and solids. It's all control, willingness, and determination. One Key word discribes all Journey's= PATIENCE. Be patient and don't become discouraged if weight loss does not happen-it will happen, so don't worry. Best of luck on your journey and have fun, enjoy and be happy. Your on the right track to living a fuller life. ken

Thank you so much for all of the helpful advice, Ken. I am so excited to start on this journey of being healthy. Having this weight off of me will feel better than any food could possibly taste!