Two Questions ??

I am new to this message board and am just starting my journey. I would like to talk with anyone who has had to deal with Kaiser as their insurer and anyone who has had the lap band procedure. I have heard many pros and cons for RNY but not alot of info regarding the lap band. Any information would be greatly appreciated. I want to be well informed before making my decision.

Hi Sharon, I have dealt with Kaiser and I have had LapBand surgery, so I guess I'm qualified to respond to this post! Unfortunately, dealing with Kaiser was one of the most frustrating experiences of my life. I did tons and tons of research and decided the LapBand was the right choice for me and Kaiser wouldn't even consider it. Kaiser wanted me to have open RNY done by a general surgeon after more than a year of classes. I was okay with the classes, not sure about open RNY and totally unwilling to have surgery by a general surgeon instead of a bariatric surgeon. I found them hard to deal with and felt like they were going to make it as difficult a process as possible. Fortunately, I was able to change my insurance to United Healthcare, which does cover the band. I LOVE my band! Weightloss is slower at first, but weightloss is the same as RNY at 2 years out. I think everyone should choose the surgery that fits them best, and this definitely works better for me. I had surgery with Dr. Johnell in Greeley in April and have been very pleased with the whole experience. I just had my third fill (saline added to the band) yesterday so hopefully will feel more restriction. There's a great board on this site for Lapbanders. http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/surgtype-forums/LapBand/posts.html There's lots of info and helpful people. Go see what you think! Becky LapBand April 6, 2004 49 pounds down

I have Kaiser insurance and am getting Laproscopic surgery at St. Josephs on September 22, 2004. They have changed their processes for approving the surgery and made it a great deal faster than it used to be. Had one person in my presurgery class (which is really good by the way) who was approved within 60 days of applying. Have no info on lap band except what I have read on different internet sites. At the present time Kaiser does not do lap band saying there is more risk for problems down the road with it. Personally I do not have a clue. Good luck whatever you decide.