3 days to go

Hi everyone.  I'm Karen and I've been lurking around here for a while.  (You've all taught me a lot without even knowing it.)  Since I am 3 days away from surgery, I decided to say hello.  I have to admit, I am really scared.  I haven't slept since they gave me my date.  Am I making the right decision?  What happens if I can't do it?  As I have seen on many posts, I can't help but ask, suppose I am the only one this doesn't work for?  I am scared I can't follow the diet afterwards.  Suppose I fail?  I am sure you all have had the same questions but it is real fresh for me.   I do have a real question...I just received a bill from the Nutritionist (not covered by my insurance), for $630.  Is this for real?  Does it really cost $630 to read me the Nutritional Guidelines after surgery?  Is there anything/anyway this can be challenged?  Will the cost be the same when I have to see her after the surgery? Anyway, thanks for taking the time to listen to me.  Please think about this newbie on Friday. Karen

Hi Karen, Congratulations on your upcoming WLS date!  Being scared is totally normal.  This is a major operation and a very major lifestyle change.  As far as staying on the diet after surgery, your pouch will pretty much keep you honest for the first 6-9 months.  After that you will find that you are able to eat a lot more kinds of food and larger quantities so then you will need to work at picking the right stuff and staying within portion sizes.  But use the first 6-9 months as practice so that you will have developed really good habits by that point and you will do just fine!  In the beginning as I am sure you know, you will be limited to the types of food as well as the quantity.  I can not stress enough to alway eat/drink your protein first and then eat other foods that are good for you.  You are going to do great!  You won't fail if you stick to the pouch rules and guidelines from your surgeon and nutritionist.  Don't forget to exercise!  It makes a huge difference.  As for the NUT bill, I would ask if those costs are supposed to be included in the over plan cost for your surgeon and his bill.  Of course each surgeon has their own plan but I know some have the NUT & psy*****luded in the plan because they are manditory.   Talk to your surgeons office & to your insurance company.  And check back with the NUT's office to see if this is a one time fee.  I certainly wouldn't be paying $600+ for each visit.  That seems very high to me.   Be at peace Karen.  Your surgery is going to be fine and you are going to be successful!  So get some sleep!  Hugs, Robin

Hi Karen, did you see one of the NUt's at Bayview. I see Dr. Lidor is your Dr. SHe is my husbands Dr. He goes on Nov 9. I just had my RNY on Sept 11 with Dr. Steele. I had gotten a price sheet that i swore said 250 for the Nut. Check your binder. You are super close to me too. I am in catonsville. Amy

Thanks for both of your replies.  I have contacted Bayview and this is the correct charge. I sent an email to Dr Lidor's office and the Nut office.  I hope they can clarify things for me.

I'm up the street in Irvington.

Where is Irvington?  I've never heard of it.

Hi Karen, I had my RNY at Bayview in August.  The staff their is wonderful. A little loud at night, but very helpful. I also got the same NUT bill. I almost fainted.  Since my insurance company did not pay for post op appointments or my surgery or pyche bill (I was self pay),   I am now 1 month out and need to go to my follow upNut visit and they quoted me the $600 price.  I spoke to someone in the financial office and told her that my insurance would not pay and they told me that it would cost $315. Which I can not afford either. I am going to have to skip it.  I have found a lot of answers on this site and I think I should be ok without it. At least I hope so!! Good luck on your new Journey. Melanie Lap RNY 8/30/07

I spoke with Finance, billing, Nutrition and Surgeon offices and yep, the $600 charge is correct for the initial consultation.  The followup with the Nut is $315.  I won't be going back.  I'll see my Nut for $50.   Thanks for the info on the staff.  I am trying to get a private room, so I hope that helps.

BEST WISHES TO YOU. I WISH YOU WELL ON YOUR SURGERY. I REMEMBER IT BEING SO EXCITING. IT STILL IS EVERY DAY.