Can't wait...what is average time between first visit and the surgery?

[maryrose 2]

Hi,

I have two questions actually.

This is such a great site...and thanks so much for your support!

I was just wondering if there is an average time between your first consult (mine is 1/17) and the actual surgery date assuming no glitches with the insurance company?

They do require 3 meeings (one informational), which I already did and 2 post-op support meetings.

From what I have read seems like maybe 3 months or so? :bananapartyhat:

I hope this is not too vague a question. I know every situation is different, but I guess I am just looking forward to this and am anxious.

Also, I was thinking about looking into a diet support group on top of the band support groups. Overeaters Anonymous is one I am intereted in, but wondering how this works out for the bandsters?

Thanks again.

[conniesueb 1]

Well, my surgeon required a visit with a nutritionist, and a psychologist before he would even schedule surgery, so it was about three months once all the paperwork from the psychologist was completed. I know it seemed like an eternity in between, but it really wasn't so bad. Have they had you start on a pre-op diet yet? My doc suggested a low carb, high Protein diet because it shrinks the liver, and they have to move the liver to get to the stomach during surgery. Some docs require a liquid diet before surgery--glad mine was not one of them. I lost 10 lbs ont the low carb diet before my surgery. Just keep your eye on the prize and it will all be worth the wait. I would do it again in a heartbeat! Good luck!

[faybie 0]

I was self pay because my insurance doesn't cover WLS under any conditions. It was less than a month between consult and surgery for me, however insurance avenues I am sure you need to be much more patient.

Three months compared to a lifetime seems very short however, this surgery WILL change your life and give it back to you. Good luck and it is worth the wait no matter how long or short!!

[juliegeraci 7]

I went through the whole process in about 8-10 weeks. I too had to go to a nutritionist, phsych eval and to my doctor prior. It went really fast though. Best of luck to you.

[maryrose 2]

Thanks so much for your replies...that was the general time period I had in mind...about 3 months seems like with no glitches.

Thanks again.