New to this Group and Procedure

[Cheryl Elizabeth 0]

Good Evening Everyone:

I've begun my journey into this world of lap banding by attending the required seminar, filling out the vast amount of paper work, PT visit, Psych eval, and my dietician and blood work are scheduled soon. I want to learn all I can about the procedure, what are the pros and cons and what I can do to have the best outcome possible. I realize this is not a diet, it's a tool and there will be a lot of work on my end but, it appears, with the right attitude, it can be very rewarding. I'd love to hear your experiences. What advice would you give a new person? :rolleyes2:

[Chris61 0]

Welcome to the group. My wife and I have been banded for over 15 months now and it's the best thing we have done. First thing is to get all your medical files into one spot. This will take some time. Make sure that your primary care physican is on board and willing to help you. Take a look at your insurance and see what they require. Everyone's insurance is differant and have all types of requirements. If you like I can forward you a letter we used to help get us approved. We were very lucky with our insurance and was approved within less than 30 days. It took us about 60 days from the time we meet the doctor the first time to when we were banded. Some people have reported it has taken anywhere from 1-12 months with an average of 6-8 months if your insurance requires 6 month diet. If you go tot the Missouri section and then St. Louis there is a group there that can also help you. Take it one step at a time and work through all the hoops. Time will go faster than you think. Any questions just ask. We are all here to help. Like I and others have said it it the best thing we have done in are lives.

Chris