Well, I am just getting started on my lap-band journey. I haven't even been banded yet. My best friend got the band at the beginning of February, and I have been researching it since then. I knew almost immediately that this is right for me. Unfortunately, my insurance disagrees (employer exclusion). So that puts me in the self-pay category.:biggrin:

The decision to definitely have a lap-band was not nearly as hard for me as the decision to pay for it out of pocket- plunging my family into debt for the first time ever. But, if we're going to be going into debt, I can't think of a better reason for it. Plus, I currently weigh 405 lbs and life is pretty painful at this size.

So far I've been to a seminar, chosen my surgeon, and I've been researching like a maniac for 2 months now. I feel like if I had an actual band I could do the surgery myself. :crying: My first appointment at my surgeon's office is next week. I can't wait! I also have my appointment for the mandatory nutritionist consult (surgeon's requirement) next week too. The nutritionist wants to meet me at Starbucks (!). My first test of willpower...

Right now, because I know the band is in my future, I am flipflopping back and forth between eating healthy one week, and chowing down on ice cream the next. I keep telling myself, in a few months you won't be able to eat this crap, so you better it all now. Arg. Must stop this...

Be careful with the binges. I went to three seminars/consultations for three different practices - all had a few common rules - one of which was we were not allowed to gain more than 20 lbs from the first appt weigh-in to our surgery date. Good luck to you! Today makes my 7th day being banded !!