dial135

I might be able to help on the diving question. I'm a retired Navy Deep-sea diver and former instructor at the Navy Diving Salvage Training Center. I was banded on Tuesday (Aug 5th). The assumption is that you have gotten past the healing process and you are respecting your physical limitations. The stomach and esophagus are gas filled spaces that are equalized with ambient pressure via the regulator on your tank. If you breath normally there should be no expansion or contraction of the stomach or esophagus. Now, on the other hand, if you were to go to a depth and take a breath, then ascend without exhaling, your stomach would expand and there would be a risk to the lap band. In that case though, the greater risk would be in an arterial gas embolism.:thumbup: This also applies to flying. So yes, you can dive without fear of damaging your band or health. Best, David

I'm also approved with Tricare Prime (South)...Dr. Lord at Sacred Heart in Pensacola. The office is well versed in dealing with insurance companies and I'd have them call to confirm the issue with outpatient vs inpatient. When I first started looking into the lap-band, April '07, Tricare only approved the by-pass. So it was a blessing in January this year for Tricare Prime to finally see the light. Best Wishes! My surgery date is Aug 5th. David

Hi there, My name is David and I'm obviously a new guy to the site. Been reading a lot though. I've completed the seminar, initial Doc visit, two nutritionist appts and one psychologist appt, and the blood work, EKG, and Chest X-ray. Now awaiting an appt for endoscopy and hopefully the lapband shortly there after. First question: I want to keep track of my progress using those weight trackers. How do you get one in your profile? Thanks in advance and best wishes to all. David

Hey, Thanks...I got it! David