Question:
Therapists??

Hello!!! I had a quick question hopefully someone can tell me. My doctor (not the surgeon) but my actual doctor told me I will have to go to a psychologist and watch multiple video's concerning the lap band procedure. Can someone tell me kinda fill me in on that?? Did ya'll have to do that? I'm confused, any advice would be great. I like to know what to expect! :)    — Jessica Mayes (posted on May 8, 2008)

May 8, 2008
Lap band surgery is not 100 percent effective. There are side effects and you need to know them. Many people get into lap band surgery thinking it's the "ANSWER" or the "Magic Bullet". for many, it can be a great thing. For those that find it hard to follow their doctors protocols for after surgery eating it can be a nightmare. If your doctor is ethical he will tell you that a lap band procedure is kind of a last resort procedure. My doctor recommends a behavior modification program that allowed me to shed 75 lbs in 18 weeks, and keep it off. Contact me if you are interested in knowing more about this. BTW, My wife lost 120 lbs in 9 months on the same program.
   — AcadianaLifeChange

May 8, 2008
Jessica, the reason for the psychiatric exam is to see if you have any real eating disorders and to be sure you will be able to follow the program as the doctor dictates. Also, they try to establish whether or not you have support at home and help you learn how to deal with sabotage if you don't. The doctor will also explain how the changes in your body might affect you and how to deal with the changes. I wish you the best, Blessings.... P.S. The program that the other member was speaking of is Medifast, which may work well for some but not others. It is like the gastric band - not a magic bullet. Every program must be followed faithfully. Again, God's blessings....
   — Kathy T.

May 8, 2008
Hi Jessica. Many of us who are enrolled in a group surgical practice are evaluated by a psychologist. Besides reasons Kathy stated you'll be evaluated for your prior weight loss history, what sabotaged that, your family history, why you're pursuing WLS, etc. It's truly nothing to freak out about (although I admit I was really scared going in!) - there are MULTIPLE questions you'll be asked but remember it's all in your best interest. The worst that will happen is that the psychologist will not immediately clear you - that happened to a couple of people I know, but both said they were able to discuss things they had never brought up to family members and they went into surgery feeling more confident about themselves. Remember, WLS is only a tool, and after surgery we need to still follow dietary restrictions and practices just like any other diet - every post-op I know says it's hard. The surgical practice just wants to make sure you're prepared mentally, emotionally, and physically. As far as the videos, my advice would be to wait and see how your surgeon prepares you for surgery. Mine requires that I attend at least 3 support group meetings. I've found them very helpful, supportive, and educational - to the point that I just attended my 34th one last night! If you have any questions or concerns feel free to e-mail me at [email protected]. Good luck!
   — obeseforever

May 8, 2008
I was going through Stanford Bariatric Clinic, and they are extremely hyper about those people who have mental illnesses. I'm Bi-Polar with it under control for the past 10 years and I was "highly recommended NOT to get any procedure done" The Psychologist felt that I was fine, but the Dr's are the ones who don't want the liabilities. I'm going through right now and trying to get a second opinion at another facility to get it done. Liz
   — tetralizard

May 9, 2008
I had my lap band done in Tijuana, Mexico as my insurance wouldn't cover it. The cost was 1/2 has much. They depend on your intellegence to know whether or not the surgery is for you. If your going to this means to have it done more than likely your at that point. My problem was keeping the weight off. The Dr. Verboonen with Obesity Goodbye has more experience than any of the American Doctors.
   — lanaph

May 9, 2008
The psyche eval is a good thing, it makes you think about maybe some issues you have buried. The goal is to make sure you completely understand what you are about to do and that you understand the risks and benefits associated with it. As far as the education end of it, READ, READ, READ. You can never have too much information. I actually learned more online regarding my procedure and it's outcomes than at the doctor's office due to time restrictions. The absolute best forum site I have found that breaks questions down into specific question groups is at http://www.beforeandafterhelp.com/ This one is great also, but the other format was easier for me. Those that have gone before me have answered every single question I have had and the search key was like google to me. I have not had a question yet that could not be answered on there and quickly. Also, at my final pre op visit just weeks ago, my doctors office gave me a "test" to complete while I waited to be called. It had about 20 questions on it that I had to answer completely and also the first question was for me to draw a diagram of what I understood my procedure to be. I was shocked at first, but then as I went through it I found I knew, I mean I really knew the answers. ALL of them. It gave such a boost to my self confidence because I was proud that I had done all I could to really know what and how my life would change for the better and what my risks were for not following doctor's orders. Good luck and never give up learning more.
   — texast

May 10, 2008
My doctor suggested that the suicide rate is very high for folks having weight reduction surgery. He said "you can bet that there are many reasons why people overeat". I agreed with him and I am considering going to a therapist to try and work on some of those issues before the surgery. I can lose the weight, I just have a difficult time maintaining the loss. ~m
   — michele_b