How do I talk to my dr.?

My wife and I have been tossing the idea of us both having the lap-band procedure done.  But I don't know how to approach my general physisian about it.  I've been going to him since High School and he has seen me gain and lose repeatedly.  I do well on diets for 2 months and then I go back to my old eating habits.  I have not used any perscription meds, I can't afford them, and they kind of scare me too.  But I know that my GP needs to refer me in order to get the insurance to pay for it.  I'm thinking about using Dr. Sonnenstine as my surgeon because of all of the good thing I have heard about him on here. 

Dr. Sonnanstine is absolutely the best!!    I'd never go to anyone other than him.   He did my gastric bypass 7 months ago and I can't tell you how happy I am with his dedication to me as a patient.  He truly is a highly trained, skilled surgeon as well as a compassionate person.   The program he's created at St. Luke, in my opinion, by far exceeds any of the other programs in the area. 

As far as approaching your GP.....just tell him pretty much what you just said on here.  That you know that he's seen your weight fluctuate up and down over the years and that you're concerned for your health not only now but for your future as well.    I didn't need a referral from my PCP to see Dr. Sonnanstine so it wasn't until after I was already enrolled in the program that I went back to him to get a letter of medical necessity based on my medical history of obesity and obesity related problems.  I wondered if he'd be supportive of my decision and found that he definitely was.   I wish you and your wife all the best.  And if you ever want to talk.....just give me a shout.  I'm usually on here a lot whether I'm posting or just lurking! 

Chris, I laughed when I saw your picture (not that it's funny..lol..) but I had to actually take a double take ..I didn't recognize you at first!!

  Have I changed that much since Monday?! 

I agree with what Chris said. Dr. Tom is by far the best out there... if he wasnt, my entire family wouldnt have gone to him for their surgeries.  Now, as far as your GP goes... tell him about your thoughts on surgery and how you feel about your weight fluctuation and such. Since he/she has witnessed this I dont think it would be a problem for them to  give  you their approval.  My GP had no issues giving me the medical nec. letter because he has seen myself and my family struggle with our weights all our lives... Just be up front and honest.  I wish you the best of luck!  Sarah

Thank for your thoughts.  If I don't call them first, I'm going to try to get to the August information session (Missed July's).  I need to see if they would even consider me for surgery or not.  My BMI is over 40 and I have Sleep Apnia, but all of my blood test are within the "normal" range. 

Just so you know, Dr. Sonnanstine or (Dr. Tom) as many call him...is one of the few surgeons that does not require you to attend a seminar.  You may meet with him in a one on one session.  Your insurance should cover that consultation with a co-pay etc.   But going to his sessions are also very informative. Brenda