StacyS

Congrats to your weight loss!! I'm so happy for you all and look forward to posting my own weight loss after my surgery in March/April.

I would call your patient advocate at doctors and have them give them some push back!! They trend to approve after someone tests their policies!!!

I just went for my first of the 3 months with dietitian and they told me NOT to lose weight since I'm right at 40 and in order to qualify you have to have a BMI of 40 or higher. I know it sounds backwards but that's their policy...i have BCBS Fed

Hi I'm Stacy. I've been jumping through hoops to get the lapband but had a 3 month set back with my insurance and decided to see a different doctor. I have been dying to get the lapband but after talking to more people and researching the two procedures, I'm swaying more toward the sleeve. Can I please have some advice from others why they went with the sleeve rather than the band? Or why you got your band removed and crossed over to the sleeve? I'm really confused and need all the guidance I can get.

Thanks newmoo!! You are an inspiration and I truly am happy you are here and doing well!!! Good luck on your weight loss and please use me as a support!!!!

I'm seeing Dr. Kokkalera in Northridge. I highly recommend them!!! They are very knowledgeable, friendly, and professional!! They make you feel as if you are their only patient!!!!!

One more thought....there is so much maintanence involved with the band that its so scary that it may or may not even work. OMG, I'm so confused. I thought the band would be right for me in many ways, especially since I eat without even being hungry, but the post above really opened my eyes!!!!

Wow!!!!!!!! thank you so much for all the information! Its very helpful in making my decision!!!