I'm new here

I have lurked here a bit, but just signed up today. I am having my Pre-Op appt. on Thursday at Portsmouth Naval. Any hints on what to expect and how long until surgery?? Thanks much. Tina

Tina: Welcome! The weekends are not near as busy on the board as regular weekdays and a large number of regular posters are now in Charlottesville or motoring back and forth from the meet and greet earlier today. I know it took about 1 month from my initial meeting until my surgery date. However, I was lucky and it usually takes a bit longer. I'm sure someone from down your way will have better answers for you later today or Sunday! Don't be afraid to post any questions or concerns as you'll find everybody here supportive and eager to help out! Dave

Hi Christina, I went to an info session in November, had my consultation with the surgeon on December 19th and am still going through the many tests before they will submit for approval. Sometimes it makes me a bit crazy but I am glad that they will be prepared for any possible scenario when I have my surgery. I still don't have a date but based on the timeline that I was initially given, I am hoping for March or April. The wait time totally depends on the surgeon and the surgical group. I have seen some people get scheduled within a month or so and others have waited a year or more. I know that was really not very helpful but whatever the wait time, it is DEFIITELY a worthwhile investment. Good luck to you! There are many people from the Hampton Roads area on this board so I am sure you will hear from someone who has dealt with Portsmouth Naval. Christine

By pre-op appointment is this the group info meeting or the actual meeting with the surgeon? If it's the info meeting expect a 1-2 year wait. Since I switched to standard instead of waiting the months to get into an info meeting I'm not sure how long before surgery if you're actually meeting with the surgeon...I would guess a few months. From my experience with Portsmouth Naval Bariatric clinic they're never in a hurry about anything. Anyway, glad you joined the group! Liz

Welcome Tina! This is a great place, welcome to the Virginia board! I think the length of time until surgery depends upon your insurance and your insurance company. I got approved about two weeks after my initial appointment and then my surgeon wasn't available to do the surgery for another 30 days. Best wishes to you! ~Wanda

Welcome Cristina , there are a great bunch of people here, yvette

Welcome Tina. Congrats on your decision for a new healthy you. Can't wait to welcome you to the losing side. Courtney 11 weeks out - 53 lbs

Hey Christina: I'm just a spouse here but a supportive one. Welcome aboard and do not hesitate to post questions. My wife is one year and 2 months post op.From what I know is time between consultation and surgery depends on what your Doctor wants you to do before surgery. It's not much in response to your question, But from what my wife is like now and and before, I am trying to keep up with her now. It's all good. Signed the overweight one on the boards