Hi Maincat,
You were very lucky to get your op on the NHS. The reason people are going privately is because even though you meet the NICE requirements, ie bmi of over 35 with co-morbities or bmi of over 50, - is that the funding is not there for surgery.
It's another case of postcode lottery, - I am aware of some people getting their op within a few months, - and getting plastic surgery afterwards for tummy tucks and breast lifts.
However, I have a bmi of 43 with co-morbities and have been trying to get surgery for two years. I've finally bitten the bullet and opted for private surgery in Belgium with Dr Marc Focquet.
Anji