New with Questions

Thinkin'boutit · April 20, 2006

Okay - I've been battling weight for approx. 10 years - every year I gain more. I lost almost 20 by joining Curves 2 years ago, but I've gained all that plus more back. I need to do something.

My insurance will cover this starting July 1st. But I need to get approval first - and a pyschological exam.

That part scares me just as much as anything. What are they looking for? Do they really want to hear how depressed being overweight makes me and how I eat because of my feelings? Or because I over eat all the time just because?

Then I ask myself - am I really a candidate for this? My BMI is 36, I've tried countless diets and excersize programs - I have a little luck with them but gain the weight back plus more.

I have a family history of being overweight, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes. Although right now, I only have high cholesterol and joint pain. I know those others are in my future if I don't change things now. I'm only 26 yrs old.

I figure you guys are the ones to ask - soo many experiences on here. Since my insurance will cover if I get approved - I will be doing this locally- in ND.

lynng35 · April 21, 2006

Hello,

You definitely came to the right place. I was just banded on 3/10 and I don't regret it at all. The shrink is only part of the process, they want to make sure you don't have unrealistic expectations. I don't know where you are from but here in Mass it's only like two twenty minute appts, you see a nutritionist twice and keep a food diary. I find the diary very helpful, especially before the surgury. I would look at what I wrote and be like, did I really eat all that?:omg: My bmi was only 35 but I have strong family history of heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. I can only speak for myself and say this was the best thing I could ever have done.:biggrin1:

patlong · April 23, 2006

Hi Thinkin'boutit ... I have been researching Bariactric procedures for the past ... well it seems like forever; I kept looking at various surgeons and various procedures; then I had a health crisis and had to put every on a back burner for about a year.

The Psychological Evaluation made me nervous as well (I mean, were they really going to see how nuts I REALLY am ); but in actuality, I found it kinda easy. The person I saw was year post Gastric Bypass, so he knew what I was feeling. And lynng35 is right when they are really checking to see that you have realistic expectations. It also helps to understand that this is NOT a miracle, and it is hard work. As well as a MAJOR committment on your part (you can see that from all the post from all the people who have had the procedure.)

Like you I am awaiting authorization from my dang insurance company (they already denied me the Gastric-Bypass, because a doctor couldn't guarantee I would be 5 years in remission from my cancer ... and I REALLY don't want to wait five years to take control of my health! :rolleyes ) The Surgeons Office I am working with (Orange County Obesity (Dr. LaPorte & Associates) ) are going to help me resubmit my information for a Lap-Band - they think that's the best option for me (and my insurance company seems to approve those more than the Gastric-Bypass.). Anyway, Good Luck, and keep reading the posts ... they are helping me loads, and I only joined yesterday (04-21)