lmpersons

I have the same insurance and was banded last year. They did not require me to diet, I just had to say that I tried and it didn't work. I was a borderline BMI. What you need to discuss with your doctor, are what they call "co-morbidities". For me it was joint pain, fatigue, and the inability to lose on my own. BCBS did not question any of it. Your doctor's office will know what language to use. Get ready to get your life back!!

First, congrats on the courage to do something. I know exactly what you mean about the aches and pains. I will be 45 this year, and feel better than I have in 15 years. It is nice to get up in the morning, and not hesitate to put your feet on the floor. My Dr. was Dr. Allison Clarey, and she and her staff are great people. I don't know what your insurance is, but a lot of them are covering the surgery now. You can call Dr. Clarey's office and ask to speak to their insurance person. They will be able to tell you right away, if your insurance covers it. They do a good job of keeping up with all of the changes. Most doctors offer some type of informational class. You should find one that fits your schedule and attend. You will hear a lot of stories that are just like yours, and realize that their are a lot of people in your same situation. You will hear questions that you might not have thought to ask. I have a son who is eleven. I now have the energy at the end of the day to spend time with him, and have fun. I didn't before, and it really makes a difference. I also have a daughter who is 18. I wanted to set a good example for her, by taking charge of my health. You are trying to improve your quality of life. Not just for right now, but for the future as well. Just remember you are not alone.

congrats Penny. Who is your doctor??

Hey all: Do any of you know a nice gym that lets you pay month to month, instead of a contract?? I am looking for something with elipticals. What types of Snacks do you guys find that helps with the sugar cravings. I know snacking is a bad word, but sometimes the sugar beastie hits and I have a hard time. Oh, I went through McD's the other day, and they have a new product. They are called snackers. It is a very small flour tortia (sp?), with a piece of grilled chicken and lettuce. It was a perfect size for me (about 3 inches long), cheap, and I didn't feel that I was making a bad choice. Its nice to know that we have some options when we are on the go. Have a great week! I am working nights, so I am putting a hex on the vending machine!!! Lisa

Hey All: Had my fill almost two weeks ago, and it is working really well. I have lost the holiday 5 lbs, and I think I am on my way to being off my plateau. I have been shy about admitting to people that I have had surgery, but I am starting to come out about it now. Guess I didn't want to tell at first incase I couldn't make it work. But so many people are noticing the weight loss, that I feel I need to tell them what I did. Two ladies last night complemented me on my weight loss, and one (who is older and overweight) asked how I did it. So I told her about my band. She started peppering me with questions (mostly with a negative attitude towards it), her final statement being "Oh, I went on Slimfast and worked out everyday, and lost 50 lbs too. But, then one day, I treated myself to a cheesecake, and it was all over after that.". I finally had to tell her that it may not be for everyone, but it worked for me. Have any of you guys ever run in to that??

Jess: You have lost a good deal of weight!! Your regular exercise is amazing (I can't seem to get it in, I hope to do better in the Spring). I have been told by trainers, that when you are working out, you are building muscle and losing fat at the same time, but muscle weighs more. I also agree with Annie, I think we may plateau after a big loss, in order for our bodies to figure out where we are. Don't forget you are toning up as well, so you will probably see good results in your inches. When did you get your surgery done???

Annie how long did you go last year without losing??? I have managed to drink all of the Water I am supposed to today:lol: I haven't done that in a while. I think gaining those 5 pounds back has really shocked me, and made me realize that I had let some bad habits creep in. I was really satisfied with the initial weight loss. I felt so good about myself for the first time in a long time. And the little voice started playing in my head "it won't hurt you to eat just a little", and so I was eating things (sugar, carbs) that I know I CAN NOT eat. Also, I have found some great clothes at the local thrift stores. It is amazing how many size 14's are on the rack hardly worn...I wonder if it is from all those "dieters" that jumped up to 18's and beyond??? I have put off buying anything new until I get closer to my goal. But I have found some really great things (a sexy red dress!!!) that I wouldn't have bought otherwise, and I am trying more form fitting things too!!! Shocking I know!!! Take care

I would like to hear from people that are at least one year post-op in order to compare experiences. Thanks!!!!!!

I have been banded 11 months now, and lost 52 pounds, but have gained 5 pounds back because my restriction has changed. I just had a fill yesterday, and am hoping it will help. Annie, does your restriction feel different now then it did in the beginning??? Would like to join your support group, hope to hear from you guys!!

All: I finally have my date MARCH 2!:clap2: :clap2: :clap2: :clap2: :clap2: :clap2: :clap2: :clap2: :clap2: I will check into Grandview Friday morning. Any suggestions are more than welcome!!!!

Thanks to all for the encouraging words!! Just talked to insur co., they didn't recieve the paperwork from dr. office until Jan. 9, and said it takes about 21 days to process. I am just so worried that I am getting my hopes up, and they will say no. Has anybody had to fight their insurance?? If so, what did you do, and were you successful. Standing my ground!!!!!

Just got word that I have to wait until at least Febuary now!!!!!! This really is making me nuts!!!!!! I started this process back in October!!!!! I was really hoping to have the surgery and see some results by my sons graduation in May. Sorry to whine!!!!, but I want my life back!!!!

Hey all: Well just got the news that I won't be able to be scheduled until Febuary. So good luck to you all, and take care. Lisa

I have researched this too, in prep for my surgery. There seem to be two causes to erosion: Too many sutures or misplacement of the band. The strongest key that I can see to this is making sure your surgeon is experienced, and doing everything you are supposed to in the first weeks to allow your band to heal. Those seem to be the things that we can control as patients. But I would definitely discuss the occurence of erosion with your surgeon, and if he/she is not forthcoming, I would look for someone else. My two cents!!!!!:biggrin1: There are also several threads on here that discuss it, at least one on-going poll, and Dr. Curry monitors the site and will answer your questions.