ready_to_start

Here's my question.... in comparing Lap Band vs Realize band.... do most surgeons do both procedures? Because if they don't, don't you think they are going to push the surgery they perform over the other? I would trust a surgeon much more who explained the facts of both from a non-biased point of view to someone who only performs one of the two. How can you TRULY trust what he/she is saying?

Hello! I've been researching and researching this surgery since it first was introduced years ago. I've been overweight my whole life and have always been the cute fat girl (whether anyone said it or not). I'm in my late 20's and am sick of it. So I'm ready to have the surgery. I hit my highest weight, 210 at 5'3'' and wanted to throw up. I don't know of any other medical issues that I have because I've always been too scared to be tested for anything! Am I eligible? Also, I just started a new job and my insurance won't kick in until September- if it is even covered. I would like to at least try but honestly, at this point, I'll be self-pay if I need to. I've read what seems like every post on this board and just want to get started! Would someone give me a rundown of what the ENTIRE process is so I can get started? Also, if I want to attempt to go through insurance should I wait until I am fully covered? BTW... even though I have read what seems like 64527456745 posts, can someone tell me what a "fill" is??

Thanks for the help and support. I really appreciate it. Since this procedure is relatively new, does anyone know how long the "band" will be in place? Is this for an entire lifetime or will there be a point when it is no longer needed?? Also, can some people share their experiences with loose skin? My goal is to become bikini worthy! I can't do that if I have a ton of loose skin. I'm about 210 and 5'3"... do you think that will be a concern or is it mainly dependent on how quick I lose the weight? THANKS GUYS!