New and have some questions???

Hi - my name is Stephanie and I am just starting to look into surgery. I have been yo-yo dieting since I was a kid and have tried just about everything. I have been doing Medical Weight Loss for the last year and only lost the weight I gained with my last pregnancy. I have a 41.2 BMI anad was told that surgery could be an option. I have an appointment with a surgeon on Dec 13th. What are all the steps it takes to get approved? How long does the process take from my first appointment to surgery (with out any insurance concerns)? I really hope someone could answer my questions. I am pretty excited that I found this site and there is so much support out there. Hope to here from you all soon. Steph

Hi Stephanie Welcome to the board. There are a lot of great ppl here to help you out. How long it takes usually depends on your insurance requirements and your surgeons requirements. It took me a year because of my insurance denials, but some people get it pretty fast. Have you found a surgeon you like yet? Where do you live? Which surgery are you interested in? I am always here to answer anything you need, or even just for support. This surgery is not something to take lightly, there are many things that can go wrong. Start reading profiles and get as educated about it as possible. Make sure you pick a good surgeon, one you really trust your life with. Hugs Linda

Hi Linda, Thank you for the warm welcome. To answer some of your questions I live in Oakland Twp, and have an appointment to see Dr. Wood at the Cori center. I am looking at getting the Lap Band, it seems the lease evasive and there is less recovery time. I have been reading everything I can and the only question I really have right now is how long and will I be covered. The Cori center said that I will be covered 80% which is awesome but I don't know what all I need to get paperwork wise. It is all so much.

Hello Stephanie, Dr. Wood did my open ryn in april, 06. He is a awesome doctor. he knows what he is doing , and is a very caring person. I have had no problems at all. I have lost 85 pounds and feel like a whole new person. My recovery time from open ryn was not bad.... I was back to work in 2weeks( desk job) everyone is different. Dr. wood has also did open ryn on 2 of my very close friends, and they also are doing great one 3 years ago the other almost 4.You can email me with any questions. Good luck to you