Looking for Lap Band surgeon in or near Virginia Beach,VA

Hi, My name is Karen and I'm looking for a Lap band surgeon in the area I live in. I would love to hear from anyone who has done this for any advice you may have. I hear this is a lengthy process and would like to know some things that are involved. I've always had a weight problem but not so much until I was pregnant with my first child which was many years ago. I feel as though I've resolved my emotional issues but people say that is why I'm overweight. I feel like it's more like the bad habits I got into. I mean when you're a kid your mom may limit you on what can eat or do or whatever. But once your on your own...boom...no boundaries!!!!!!   Whoopee...yahoo...and all that. You didn't want those limitations. You wanted to do what you wanted to do when you wanted to do it (for the most part). I wasn't stupid, I could stay away from anything that I deemed as trouble but I never felt that food was that big of a problem compared to other things.  From about 8th grade and up till I was pregnant I would bounce around 165 ( I'm 5'6"), 145...140 I even was trying to get as close to 120 lbs. as I could get by the time prom came around. I got to 139 lbs. when I found out that my boyfriend (who was in the navy) couldn't make it. By the time graduation came a few months later I had zipped back up to 165. I was completely distraught. But that's nothing compared to where I am now. After I got pregnant, people kept telling me "you need to eat for two now". The worst advice I ever got. Considering where I am now...I feel compelled to slap those people! I know I wouldn't but darned if I wouldn't say something if I ever (over)heard that again! You eat for two people, you look like two people.   Anyways,good or bad, I'd like to know what your experience has been with the surgeons in this area. Thanks

Hi Karen. I am sorry that I don't have any information for you regarding your concerns. I had lap RNY 6 weeks ago so am not that familiar with the Lap Band procedure. I just wanted to welcome you to our great VA board. There are great people here with so much useful knowledge and great advice. I am sure you will find the answers to your questions from someone here. We are glad you posted and please don't be a stranger. Again, welcome!

Good am Karen, We've got some LapBand folks on the boards (Ann) so they'll be able to fill you in on some things. I hear ya on your struggles that is why we are here. Been there! Hope you get the info you're looking for and are on your way to the next steps in your journey. Lean on us as we're here. All best!

Hey, Kat:  Just wanted to tell you that I love your new avatar!  You have such a fantastic smile, and it really shows through in that pic!  Have a great day!  :)

Hi, Karen:  Welcome to the VA Board!  It's a great group of people here, and a lot of great advice to go along with them!  As far as surgeons down your way -- I am afraid I can't be of much help there.  There are several people on the Board who are from your area, so hopefully you will hear from them.  In the meantime...we are here!  :)

I didn't have lapband surgery but my lap RNY surgeon, Dr. Terracina has done hundreds and hundreds of them and he's great. He's in Newport News, an easy drive from Va. Beach. Good luck!