Lap Band

I wanted to know if anyone knows how the process for lap band works.  Is it the same as gastric bypass or what?  Do you have to pay to go to the classes?  Do anyone know a doctor that does the lap band?  What is his name?

I live in Greenville, NC and had my RNY done with Dr. Chapman at ECU.  I know that they offer Lap Band as an option, but as of February, no insurance they knew of covered it.  Chapman is a very good surgeon and I highly recommend him for either surgery.  Good luck with your search. Take care. Ellen

I just got banded by Dr. Joseph Moran out of Raleigh.  His web site is www.alasurgery.com. The process was the same as if I was getting bypass: nutritionist, psych eval, cardiologist, pulmonolgist, etc.

I will be banded by Dr Moran next Thursday......I have BCBS Ma and they covered my procedure.

I want to know if you had to pay to go to the class as far as the class that gives you all the information you need to make the decision of having the procedure done or not.

No. Dr Moran offers a free siminar that he has every Wednesday evening from 6-8pm. He explains both procedures and answers questions. His number is 919-781-0815 if you would like to call for more info.

Here in Charlotte the process is the same. The seminars are free. I want to let you know that most all insurance companies cover the lap-band. BCBS NC didn't cover it until Jan 07 but when it wasn't a covered benefit we still got it covered if it was the best way for the patient to go.  Good Luck in your search, your process, the classes, the seminars and etc.....