KJS1228

I went to the info session last night at the U of PA to learn about my options for weight loss surgery. I was suprised to hear the surgeon poo-poo banding in general. He said they are doing less of them now due to instances of re-surgery, complications, weight gain of patients and the wearing out of the band. I was shocked! I went in there having almost made my up mind that the band was for me. He was very much for gastric bypass. Have others experienced this? Is there merit to what he is saying, or do the surgeons have a motive for wanting to do gastric over banding? Appreciate any thoughts!

Makes sense...thanks.

Rojasanoll - Thank you. Question...what about after the 10-15 years...do you get your band replaced?

Good for you....your triumph will come soon! I have felt your pain over and over. So stressful. I have actually sat next to a few people who were so rude about sitting next to me (like I was a freak.) I actually leaned over to one women and told her I thought she was being very rude and insensitive and has no idea what it feels like to live a day in my body.

Thanks Lori. I did call my group and they confirmed it was convered with a pre-auth with my Doctor, including fills etc. Jim1967 - I'll be sure to get it all in writing!!

I've heard it can take 6 months or longer to actually get the surgery once you are engaged in the process. Medical tests, insurance approvals, weight loss ect. How long does it normally take?

Fantastic....inspiring!

Great feedback! Sounds like it is very dependant on insurance companies. I'm hoping Aetna doesn't have the 6 month diet stipulation...but I'll find out. Thank you!

I am considering the Univ. of PA in Philadelphia for my lap band. Has anyone worked with a surgeon there you can recommend? Would appreciate any insights you might have.

Hello! My struggle is similar to many I have read here. I've been obese since I was 10, lost and gained portions of weight. Have always thought I will be able to do it some day. Try, try again right? I recently got what I consider 2 taps on the shoulder. Tap 1: At a funeral of a doctor who was an amazing man, a speaker challenged us all to use Dr. Jim's death of a wake-up call for our health. We could honor him, but honoring ourselves. Made me think about how I needed to actualize this. Tap 2. I switched primary care physicians, and the new doctor asked me "You've been severly overweight for 40 years and keep trying. Do you really think you can do it with just dieting....maybe you need to consider weight loss surgery?" Excellent question she asked.....reality check. I can't do it alone. So here I am..listening to the taps....40 years old, wife and mother of a 6 year old girl, 300 pounds. I'm good at everything else in my life but this. Now it's my turn. Going to an information session at the University of Penn Hospital next Thursday....eager to learn more about the whole process. Met with a wonderful women from church who is 3 years post...she gave me some great insights. Really eager to get the ball rolling. So fortunate to have a wonderful husband who is 100% supportive and supportive from the very small circle I have told about what I am considering. Not letting everyone know yet....not interested in anyone derailing me right now. Thanks for listening! Karen