Exploring in Maine

[TSB 1]

Greetings everyone. I have been lurking here for a week or so. I've struggled with my weight since I was a child (joined weight watchers for the 1st time @ 12). I can't count the number of times I have joined that program since then. I always seem to loose 20 or 30 lbs and then stall out completely. I did once go from 210 to 150 in a 6 month period of time after a very bad end to a long term relationship. LOL, that was the first time in my life I just could not eat! It was not the healthy way to do it, though!

I have known several co-workers who had lap band procedure done and had great success. I was never sure if I would qualify or not, though. When I went for my yearly physical in Jan. my PCP noted that I had gained some significant weight over the last year. She asked if I had ever consisdered bariatric surgery (she had gastric bypass done herself about 6 years ago). I told her I did not know if I would qualify or not as I do not have any major health issues. She suggested doing a referral to the surgeon in my area who does this type of procedure and to discuss with him whether I meet the qualifications or not and whether gastric bypass or the lap band would be best for me. I am leaning toward the lap band. I am 5' 2.75" and am between 220 & 230 # at the moment (I don't weigh myself).

At any rate, my pcp made the referral to Dr. Jamie Loggins. I have my first appointment on March 13. I received a big packet of paperwork that I have already filled out. The person who called to set up the appointment advised I should expect to be there for 2 hours. Any idea what I can expect during those two hours?

I am assuming since I have seen a number of co-workers go through this process, that my health insurance is fairly good about approving it. I have Anthem as insurance. Anyone have experience w/ this company?

Look forward to learning lots here and getting to know you all!

TSB

[MacMadame 81]

Well you are right on the edge of a qualifying BMI. If you weight 230, you are okay. If you weigh 220, you may be a bit under.

You might want to weigh yourself and then make sure you meet a minimum BMI of 40 at your initial consult. If they put your height down as 5'2", that will help too.

I've heard BCBS is pretty straightforward if you want a band or bypass. So that's good.