srowland2008

I am having mine May 7th. I can't wait!

I was a fence-sitter too. Then my husband had the procedure in December 2007 and has already lost 50 pounds! Now I am having it done next month. I have Blue Cross Clue Shield too (not in MD though). Here are the steps I suggest to get the lap band: 1. Research online/talk to people to find a competent surgeon near you. 2. Call and make an appointment with surgeon. 3. B/4 surgeon appointment get copies of your medical records for the last 3-5 years AND a letter from your primary care doctor saying that he thinks the procedure is medically necessary. (b/c BMI is above 40, all of your co-morbidities, etc.) 4. Schedule an appointment with a nutritionist and a psychologist to get the consults done- the surgeon's office may have someone they work with. 5. Have surgeon submit your package to the insurance company- then wait a few days/weeks for insurance to approve. As of January 1, Blue Cross Blue Shield doesn't require the 6 month diet program before approval. They only require the doctor's letter (showing reasons why it is medically necessary), 3-5 years medical records, psych evaluation and nutritionist consultation. I started the process March 4 (my birthday) and it has been a crazy 6 weeks of doctor's appointments and hounding my PCP for my records, but I have already been approved. I hope that helps. Good luck!

I had my sleep study on 3/11. There wasn't a set lights off time for mine. They allowed me to bring a book and read until I felt sleepy. I also brought my own pillow. I was so nervous that I wouldn't be able to fall asleep-but I did. Not the best night's sleep I ever had. The staff at the clinic I went to was really great. Overall it was a good experience.

I went to the doctor today to set my surgery appointment. I will get banded on May 7th. I cannot wait!

I had someone tell me I wasn't fat enough to get bariatric surgery, I should just diet. I didn't tell her I've done that my entire life and I now weigh 260! People should keep their (unsolicited, unhelpful) opinions to themselves.

Insurance approval was super quick. The surgeon's office submitted my package last week and I'm already approved. I can't WAIT to have the surgery and start losing weight!