smellyfresh

I was banded on 2/12/09. I have had my first fill. The proceedure with my DR. is you lay down on the table. He will feel for your port with his fingers. Once he finds it, his nurse sprays some cold spray (pain killer) and he sticks the needle in. You really do not feel it. I too was nervous. I specifically asked them what they were planning to do to me in this strange room. They were very nice and explained the whole process to me. Just ask, tell them you are a fill virgin and they will help you through this too. Julie

I remember the first few days of the liquid diet. I also cried and raged, it seems your hormones get out of balance.

I have Aetna Open Access they do require medical records for the past 2 years showing obesity. A six month diet and exercise program through your doctor, 3 months have to be consecuetive (sp) in the last 2 years. Lower BMI's require co-morbidities. Here is a link to the policy Obesity Surgery As long as your employer did not exclude the surgery you should have good luck. Personally, It took less that 1 week for me to be approved for my surgery, but I knew the requirements, and had done everything on the list, except the surgeons required pre-op tests & nutrition, before we submitted. Julie

I am almost ready to have the lap band. I am approved for surgery through my insurance company, I am now waiting on surgical clearance from my Dr. I will be setting a date for early January 2009. My question is, do you find that post operative visits with a physchologist are helpful, or do you prefer the support groups sponsored by your doctor? Thanks for the input. Julie

Thanks for the responses. I have great insurance with 26 visits to the physocologist per year. I just think that while I release the protective barrier (fat), that I need to develop the skills to deal with situations that are likely to develop. I have been invisible since childhood and will have to deal with not just being visible, but being the focus of attention (good & bad) for the first time in my life. Julie

Just thought I'd add in my two cents. My daughter had issues with UTI's and her pediatriction suggested we not let her take bubble baths or use scented soaps until the issue was resolved. That seemed to do the trick and now we use Ivory only. Julie

I am so sorry that you are in this situation. I feel that things always happen for the best. Please take this oppertunity to love yourself and be kind to yourself. The best revenge is to get healthy and live a happy life. Carma takes care of everything else. Spend your energy and emotion on yourself because you are worth it and your children need a strong and healthy mom to take care of them.