From Oahu

I am looking for others who have had, want to have, or going to have the lap band procedure on Oahu, Hawaii. I live in Wahiawa and have my appointment with my pcm to get a referel on Aug 16. I am really nervous and would love to hear stories from those of you who have started this journey. I will be going through Tripler since my husband is in the army. Anyone have any experience with them? What's the typical waiting time for a date? Thanks in advance!

Hello there, I had a gastric bypass last year and things have been incredible to say the least. I am very excited for you !!! I did not have a lap band but the surgery and results are the same. Try not to be nervous, I know that is easy for me to say. If you need help getting through this journey I will help you through, at times it is extremely emotional. There are a million things to expect and even more you won't expect. Janet [email protected]

Thank you for the reply Janet. Are you on Oahu also? I recently found out that Tripler doesn't do the lap band yet. In fact, no one on this island does it yet. At least from what I've found out. The surgery they do do is the RNY. I have found another lady who lives very close by and had her RNY at the same hospital. I will be attending some of the post-op support classes as well as the pre-op ones with her. I can't get over my nerves though. I've been seeing this doctor for over a year now, close to two. And going to him and admitting I've failed and need help is so humiliating to me. Anyway, I'm so glad I found this board! I hope to make lots of "friends"!

Erica, There is one surgeon on Oahu *****cently has started to perform Lap Banding. Dr. Brandt Lapschies. The only thing that I believe will be a problem is Tricare approval. Right now, Tricare still lists Lap Band as investigational.. and they may not approve it. Give Dr. Lapschies a call though. He will know if any other Tricare patients have been approved. I work heavily with the Tripler Support Groups and Dr. Zagorski and right now, we have no plans to perform Lap Band. Only Open RNY for the time being. I had Open RNY 2 years ago, have lost 200 pounds. Life is grand. Let me know if you want more information. Thanks! Kathie