Help please...

Well, I'm 26 years old, weigh in at 378 lbs and I've finally decided that my "dieting"  and going to the gym are not working for me. I've just recently gotten health insurance through Horizon Direct Access. I am trying to get things in order by seeing a primary and going forward from there. I just have no clue what steps I need to take what do I need to prove or show that its now or never for me.  I've reached my breaking point when my 3 year old nephew asks me why my belly is so big. So if anyone can help me... I would be greatly appreciative.

Dear Agallegan First of all you took the biggest step by deciding to have Bariatric surgery. Now comes the easier part (even though at times it may seem difficult) - how to go about getting approved. This is can be somewhat complicated - especially depending on your insurance company requirements. While it may take some time, never lose focus on your goal - it will come.  I would first suggest talking to your primary physician about your decision. Make sure your Doctor has good notes concerning your past weight loss attempts. Some insurance companies want (at least) 6 months of supervised Doctor weight-loss records. Over the last few years my Doctor has kept excellent notes of all the different diets plans I've tried, and failed. I didn’t have to wait because of this.  During this time, research the different types of Bariatric surgeries there are, and decide on one. Do a lot of research because this is probably a once in a lifetime operation, and your want to do what’s BEST FOR YOU.  The next step is to look for a good Bariatric Doctor. Again do a lot of research: either on line, or ask around. Ask friends, friends of friends, friends of friends of friends, complete strangers, anyone who has had an operation. Good or bad, folks will talk about their experience. See if the same Doctor’s name keeps coming up. Once you’ve narrowed down your Doctor choices, go to the Doctor’s seminars and listen to what they have to say. Also, make a list of questions you want to ask the Doctor. While you may not be able to ask all your questions at the seminar, make an appointment with the Doctor and ask your questions. My questioner had 30 questions - even asking if they’ve ever had a patient die and if so what they learned. You want to make sure you are dealing with a reputable Doctor. The Doctor staff will probably have experience in dealing with your insurance company, and the steps they will need for you to get approved. You will probably need to see a Nutritionist and/or psychiatrist. Your insurance company may or may not cover them. Don't forget, you can write off the medical expenses at the end of the year. Personal advice: once you decide on the specific type of Bariatric surgery you want, don’t let the Doctors try to sway you. You need to feel comfortable in your decision, and a GREAT Doctor will honor your opinion.  Lastly - please remember Bariatric surgery is only a TOOL that helps you loose weight. It's not a cure all. You will need to follow certain guidelines. I hope this helped. Please feel free to send me a personal message if you have any other questions !! Good luck on your journey !!

I agree with all that was already stated.I just want to wish you well on your journey.As you see by my ticker I too was 378.I have lost over 100 lbs already & I have to say this was the best thing I have ever given myself.Good luck  can't wait to follow your progress

Dear AGallegan, I have not had surgery yet, but I am approved to do so.  I will be having surgery on August 11th.  However, I wish I hadn't waited until now, at 37, to do so.    My kids are young and they want to play and run around with me, and I simply can't...I'm too big to keep up. If you know the decision is right for you...the girls were right...your primary care physician is the first step.  I know for a fact the Horizon family of insurance requires an absolute minimum of 6 months of supervised weight loss (monthly) within the last 2 years.  So if you do not have that, that is where you should start.  Start now even before you pick a doctor and go to a seminar!   Also, I just went to my first support group meeting and found that people go for months and months even before they have surgery to hear other peoples stories, trials and tribulations, and successes!  I would recommend finding one close to where you live and start going to those as well. Well, good luck to you!  And feel free to keep in touch... I'd love to hear how you are making out! -Danielle

you have great advice so far :)  if you choose a dr and find out you don't like the dr or the staff then dont' be afraid to change surgeons and start over -- you need to feel comfortable with who you choose --  there are a couple of other things in your search  1. lap band is not reversible - scar tissue will grow - it can be deflated though - so make sure you know what the word 'reversible' means 2. laproscopic can turn into an open procedure - complications can arise and you may need to be opened up  3. you have an 18 month to 2 year window to lose most of the weight - everyone loses at different rates - never compare yourself to someone else 4. support groups are free and open to the public - be leary of spending thousands of dollars out of your own pocket  5. sit down and write the pros and cons of each surgery type - what are you looking for? restriction? changing food habits?  6. this is not a diet - it will be a way of life  if you have any questions just ask -- someone is always here  good luck roberta

A couple of weeks have passed since your original post, so this may have already occurred to you--if you are new to health insurance, you may have a waiting period for coverage for "pre existing conditions".  As part of your planning process, give Horizon a call and find out what kinds of services are covered during the waiting period.  Perhaps this is an ideal time to get the 6 months of medically supervised dieting done.   You are so wise to take charge of your weight at this age.  I'm 53 and have been battling too much tonage for 30 years.  My surgury is scheduled for 7/28 and I can't wait to get this show on the road.  Gotta love the honesty of little kids.  I say use it and lose it!