Jesangel76

From what I've researched thus far, there is no known life expectancy of the band because it's only been around in the states for 10 years and it's only 12 years old in France. I think about the risk factors too and of the fact that once it's on it's there for life. If removed, patients turn to their old eating habits and gain the weight back and then some. Apparently, your stomach gets a little bigger after you've had the band for a while. So, if the band is removed you're able to hold more food. It's a permanet solution. I wasn't too thrilled about that, but then I think about my health NOW and how I seriously need to lose this weight. Like the previous reply-ers - you have to think about your health and not worry about the band itself. I'm going for my surgery towards the end of Nov and I try not to think about the fact that this thing will be in my body forever. I only think about the health benefits. I'd like to be alive long enough to find out just how long does this thing last... Good luck!

I have Aetna and in the process of getting approved. They are strict as they require 6 months of seeing a nutritionist, a psychotherapy analysis, a health factor, a mandatory info session on the surgery and a BMI of late 30's and higher. I completed the 6 months of nutrition and have Type II Diabetes - just recently found out that I my bad cholesterol is a little on the high side. So, there shouldn't be any reason for them to deny me. But, yes Aetna and Cigna are two of the most difficult insurance companies out there when it comes to Bariatric surgery. Although, sometimes it really depends on how the contract was negotiated with Aetna and your company and sometimes it doesn't. Good luck to the both of us!

Hello All, I'm in the process of getting banded. We're looking at mid-November. I just had my 3-hour long mandatory informational session yesterday and my surgeon said I should start mentally preparing myself with respect to food choices and working out. I'm trying to wrap my head around all of this and the more I think of it the more stressed out I get. The thought of failure is overwhelming me to no end and I'm just looking for some advice or words of wisdom here. :smile2: I keep thinking of the positive aspects of lapband surgery, but we all know it won't be a rosey ride to success. What sort of difficulties will I have and how will I overcome them? Your responses will be very much appreciated! Current Weight: 241 lbs Goal Weight: 160-170 lbs Thanks! :wub:

Thanks for the post! Yes, like you I am also an emotional eater. I guess that's what I was trying to say in my thread - I just couldn't find the words. If you don't mind me asking: how did you deal with your emotions when food wasn't your comfort?