Not sure how to get started

Hey all. I read over some of the posts here and it gives me a lot of hope that bariatric surgery has made such a difference in your lives. I really want to get this done for myself to prevent health problems in my future, but I don't know how to get started or where to go for insurance (if at all possible). I've been to a seminar before, but at that time, I didn't have insurance or even a job to save up funds for the surgery. I'm only 22 years old, but I've always been an overweight child, which has turned into being obese. It seems to be a family trait and we've always had weight problems and a history of slow metabolisms. The surgery was recommended by my general doctor because she said my blood pressure was a bit high and I seemed to have something called "insulin resistence syndrome," which isn't exactly diabetes but something that could turn into it. I suppose I'm looking for information and options on how to get the surgery insured. I was told by a woman at Tallgrass in Topeka that United Healthcare pays for it, but unfortunately that is only a company you can get to through an employer or group. I'm probably going to have to pay out of pocket, which would cover the office visits for the two years I'd be losing weight (with the lap band), but I worry about accidents or complications that may happen that won't be insured.

I would recommend Tallgrass. I did not get my band from there but I do get my fills done there. I think that it cost 12,000 for the sugery and aftercare and fills for a year. I do know that you would have to go to the seminar that they have once a month before they will see you. Let me know if you ahve any other questions. Kelli

I checked out 3 places in Kansas.  I decided on Tallgrass as they were cheaper, with the 2 yr fills.  Junction City would have been closer but they pretty much do only RYN.  They really only talked about it at their meetings.  I am glad I talked to my family dr. and checked out Tallgrass.  I orginally had appt. set up  with the one in Overland Park but decided that Tallgrass was really good and much closer.  After reading on here and talking to a lot of people I decided on the lapband.  I think you need to really read a lot about the different choices.  You are very young and have a lot a head of you.  I would suggest really really looking into the band.  But it has to be what you think is best.  I will be self pay. good luck  I am nervous but anxious.

I am aready banded. I was banded on 3/22/07. It was the best choice that I could have made. I am only 10 lbs from my goal and I feel and look great. I hope that it goes as good for you. They are great at Tallgrass. I get my fills done there. I also have a friend that got hers from there. Let me know if you have any questions that I maybe able to help. Kelli

Did you self pay or did an insurance company pay?

I am also a big Tallgrass fan.  I think they take other insurance than United though.  I had to fight hard for mine four years ago.  I had the RNY and it has been life changing.  Seems there are alot of Tallgrass people on here.  They are great. Alice

I've been trying to look for other insurance options, but I haven't found anything. And a woman at Tallgrass said that there are insurance companies that say they DO cover it, and when it comes to it, they reject it. So now I keep thinking I have to self pay.

I don't have the numbers but had someone talk about the cost of food, clothes, medical costs, medicine, as well as serious health issues that can occure from being over weight.  They were much more than the $12-15,000 it costs even if you self pay.  When you put just feeling good,  and hopefully living longer, spend less time sick, in the hospital, etc. it is a kind of small price to pay.  I know it is hard to come up with the money sometimes.  I just know that I have trouble buying shoes that feel good, etc.  my knee joints, ankles, etc.  it is only going to get worse.    good luck with your decision.

Right, so my mom doesn't support the decision of me paying out of pocket for the procedure. I have 9.000 dollars of my own money and I'm living with her now because I wanted to save for the rest. She decides she doesn't want me spending all my savings, so if I pay for it out of pocket, she's threatening to make me move out. Lovely. Does anyone know if banks would happen to give loans for this type of thing?