moneypenny

Hang in there -- learn the process, know what the surgeon requires and know what the insurance requires and work it. I went to a seminar in July, learned everything the surgeon needed (psych eval, dietician, sleep study) - went to my primary care doctor, had him order a referral from the insurance for all 3, plus a referral to the surgeon. Went to the surgeon's office 2 days later to get my first weight in (had to lose between 5% & 10% of body weight prior to surgery)... checked my insurance online referral system and once I saw the referrals post, I was on the phone scheduling my appts --- everything clicked along and all the pre-op work was done in 4 weeks. The surgeon's office then sent to the insurance for approval, insurance kicked it back the next day for more info (and I was calling the insurance company asking what was going on), then the surgeon's office sent back more info (but I had to call them and let them know the insurance needed more info, and then they checked "that" email box and saw the insurance request for further info) -- they sent it off... and voila it was approved the next day, which was a Friday... Surgeon's office was working toward getting me on the schedule anyways, so 3 days later was my pre-op appt, then surgery the next day. It pays to know what is really required so poke around and make sure you are getting all your ducks in a row so to speak. i.e. if the surgeon you will see at the seminar has pre-requisites, get them started. Best of luck -- I know the waiting is agony -- I actually had tried to do this 4 years prior, and insurance sent me to a gastric bypass only doc -- scrapped that, and I knew I wanted the lap band... hit my breaking point again in July. Keep after it -- it will come through.

Thanks for posting your issue -- I was searching for something somewhere to reassure me that this was "normal" -- I think I have developed intolerance for skim milk -- TERRIBLE gas pains and nausea and running to the bathroom, but not throwing up. It has happened with my protein shakes, and McD's ice cream sundae (which I'm sure is fake ice cream). Now I'll be heading to Walmart for some lactose free or soy milk. THANKS AGAIN!

Yeah! I'm 10 days post op. Doing ok so far -- latest issue is back pain, middle of back, right around where the bra line is. The shoulder pain from the gas is better now, did it move to my back? any input is appreciated! :-)

I was banded Aug 25th. It's exciting to read everyone else's posts. I'm definitely still on the liquids only. The docs/patient liaison explained that once the swelling around the band went down (natural from surgery) that I would start to feel really hungry again and when I hit that point I could do cream Soups if they were pureed to ensure there were no chunks of broccoli or potato etc. Their guidance was that the entire purpose of food during the first 6 weeks is to not throw up. So I have 3 weeks of liquids, and 3 weeks of pureed, then get to go for regular food. Should have my first fill at 6 weeks. Looking forward to it! Looking forward to getting through this phase and moving on to the next (the part where we get to see consistent weight loss) :-). Can't wait to be at a weight in which I no longer feel fluffy or extra huge when sitting next to a small person.

Hi! I was banded on Aug 25th as well. Just recovering - can see where liquids will grow old within 3 weeks. But I'm thrilled I had it done! Tricare has covered everything so far except $50 for the nutritionist. All in all, I can NOT complain about that. Looking forward to the rest of the journey!