Newbie with questions

[PhattyMcPhatterton 0]

Hi,

I'm new (obviously)....

Thus far I have attended the seminar. The surgeon told me I am a candidate (although I'm not really sure).

1. I am 227, 5'7, BMI 35.4. Now, I know I am squeaking in under the parameters because I've had a sleep study done years ago and advised I had sleep apnea, and I also have PCOS (not listed as a "medical" history that warrants this surgery according to the hospital and my insurance).

2. I'm scheduled for my first nutrition class June 15th. In doing this, I'm trying really hard to watch my diet as it stands now. i'm taking 500mg of Metformin, and seriously cutting back on my carbs.

3. How long after you finish up your last class (out of 6 months) do you get your surgery date? My packet says I can schedule my first meeting with my surgeon during month 3 of the classes. Will I get a date during this time? What do they go over with you in this initial consultation with the surgeon?

4. Since I am on the lower end of the BMI , what if I lose weight and I get to a normal BMI before the surgery. I ask this because I have lost 70lbs on my own in the past, only for it to come back with a vengence again!

5. Do people seriously go 6 months to all of their nutrition classes, tests, psych, etc. and go right to surgery. I realize everyone is different, but what's the standard? I'm a lil antsy, can you tell.

Anyone that can help me...I honestly do appreciate it.

:laugh::smile::smile2::thumbup:

[amoyer1116 0]

Hi, I just recently became banded on 4/26/10 and I had to go thru all that you will (even the 6mths nutrition) and to answer some of your questions, you will not get a surgery date until after your preop consult which is after your last nutrition appt, (well that is how my office worked), I would suggest asking at your next appt. they should tell you how the entire process works.

I wish you the best of luck! It is a long road, but it is so worth it!

[girl55 5]

I was banded in Victoria texas March 16, 2010. 1 month before my surgery I attended one nutrition class, counseling class, and met with my surgeon the same day. My surgery was set for one month later. I am now banded and have lost 35 lbs since. I'm feeling great, my knee pain is getting better. I went from 265 to 230 and wore a dress to my daughter's high school graduation last night. I haven't worn a dress in years, because of my weight. It was an awsome feeling, and my husband thought I looked great! But I will continue losing until I get to 145-50. Good luck everyone!

[PhattyMcPhatterton 0]

thank you gals for getting back to me. They gave me a rough idea of the time line..

1-6 month, nutrition classes

month 3-first appointment with surgeon

months 3-4 psych appt., testing, nutritionalist

and that's where it about ended.... So I was left kind of on a cliff hanger as to how fast after you complete these 6 months will you go into surgery.

I'm not the least bit afraid, I've had a breast reduction and my appendix out (laporscopic) and both went just fine. I'm just the inpatient one....very much so....

I look forward to the end of summer already just so I can meet with the surgeon! How sad is that...and after the nightmare of a winter I just endured with record snow falls.... but I'm going to enjoy my last summer of being hefty, regardless, just so I can keep positive and learn anything I can about this procedure and food through these nutrition classes...knowledge is power!

:thumbup::smile2:

[settebee 11]

McPhatterton:

Hi! I am new to all this jazz as well, but I can try to shed some light to your questions. I too had the same questions! What do I do? Do I have to wait 6 months, etc? I am actually currently doing a 3 month preparation for the Lap Band or Vertical Sleeve (I haven't yet decided.). I am set up with Dr. Morton's office at Baptist Hospital in Nashville, TN. I literally walked in to get information about the Lap Band. They had me fill out a little packet and got a copy of my insurance card and drivers license. Not five minutes after I filled out my packet the insurance specialist, Tina, came out, weighed me, got my BMI, and then told me what my insurance covered. She then told me if I could do a 6 month "course" with my PCP or I could go through them at 3 months. I don't have a current PCP here due to the fact I just moved here, so I am going through them. I am on a strict 3 month time line. Each month I have to do certain things. For example, between May and June I have to go to a support group, visit the fitness guy, a nutritionist and the doctor all in one visit, and have a psyche evaluation. The three month prep is outlined through my insurance company, Aetna, so it could be different for other insurance companies.

Anyway, I'm getting off track. :biggrin: From what I understand is after my last visit in August with the surgeon, nutritionist and fitness guy again the insurance specialist, Tina, submits all my information to my insurance and then they give there approval and surgery is schedule. I hope this kind of helps and doesn't confuse you! I would look in to researching Lap Band surgeons in you area and ask to set up a consultation to see what they offer. Good luck! If you have any questions you email me anytime: setteb2001@aol.com. Good luck!!