Question:
What to expect from here?

Hi to all! I was just wondering if anyone can tell me the steps that we go through? I am currently doing my 6 month supervised diet w/my pc. I am scheduled for the orientation w/my surgeon next month.What can I expect from this and on the average how long will theses necessary steps take? Yes,I am probably over anxious,but would love the feed back!! Thanks ,Kim!    — kurtsgirl (posted on September 24, 2008)

September 24, 2008
I have been working on this process since March. I didn't even have to do a 6 month supervised diet. Had to have a psych consult, pulmonary consult and cardiac consult. Also nutritional consult 2 visits. After all that was done, I finally met with the surgeon and a date was scheduled. I am still now waiting for insurance approval. Should hopefully hear something by the end of the week. Next week I start the two week liquid diet and I am scheduled for surgery on October 13th. Of course pending insurance approval. Pray that I get approved. Good Luck with your journey. I don't know how busy your surgeon is but if he is busy, plan on it taking a while. You already know that you have at least 6 months since you have to do the supervised diet.
   — MastaP

September 24, 2008
Hi Kim, Welcome to this wonderful site. From start to finish it took me one year to process. There were issues with the insurance but that was because of the plan that I participate in. My surgeon and hopsital benefit manager really went to bat for me with the insurance big wigs and got me approved. Today, I'm very pleased with my decision. The funniest thing happened to me and to many who choose the surgical option for weight loss, we doubt our decisions once we have the date set and even right after the surgery. Best of luck loosing your old self. Be kind to you as you take this incredible trip. Mary-Anne
   — mannecote

September 24, 2008
One thing I have learned from reading comments on this website, is that every doctor is different when it comes to performing WLS. I started my process in June 2007 and had surgery (lapband) on April 29, 2008. I was required to attend a three hour informational seminar; have a psych evaluation; attend a three hour nutritional seminar; and two one-on-one nutritional meetings before I met the surgeon. When I did meet with him, that is when he scheduled me for surgery. Check with your surgeon's office to see what their process is. Let me reassure you though, no matter what the process is and how long it takes, it is a journey well worth waiting for - - I'm so pleased to have done this. In five months time, I'm down 55 pounds and off all my meds! The best of luck to you!
   — Monte57