Thinking about it

March 31, 2004

Hi,

I am thinking about having the lap band done but am really unsure as to finding a doctor. I know people who have had the bypass but not the band. What is the best way to go about trying to find a doctor? This is something that I have struggled with for a long time because this stomach surgery stuff really scares me but being 5'8 and 370 pounds has become even worse and I want my life back !!

Amy

shellyj · March 31, 2004

you can go to http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/

at the very top there is 'find a doc' click on that it will help you find one close to you!

http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/dochelp.phtml

i think the second one is a direct link to that section.

Alexandra · March 31, 2004

Hi Amy,

Welcome! When I was looking for a doctor the first place I went was my insurance carrier. There was no doubt that if insurance didn't cover this for me then I wasn't going to be able to do it, so that decision was easy.

Do you have insurance? If so, the place to start is with their network directories. You can cross-reference with the Obesityhelp website, but that will probably be misleading if what you're looking for is band doctors. The best source of current info on who is performing banding surgery is Inamed. Visit their site (inamed.com, I think) and they'll help you find a local doctor.

Good luck, and please feel free to ask any questions. Two years ago I was EXACTLY where you are now, mentally. It was hard to make the decision but once I did, I never looked back.

Nice to meet you!!