What is the process like and where do I start?
WELCOME HERE!!!!
First step would be to research! Second, find out what your insurance coverage is. Then on to your PCP to get the ball going (some insurances need referals to WLS clinics). Then find out which WLS clinics are in your coverage. THEN ya need to pick one you feel comfortable and you are on your way!!!
Come here and ask all the questions ya can!! We will try to help!! Also, I'd reccomend connecting with the coffee's and meet people who have had WLS.
~Sandie~ 
-147!!WLS:12-12-06:Preop 268,Ht.5'4",BMI 44.9
Click on link to see my journey!!!
http://www.onetruemedia.com/my_shared?z=2bfaca5561a1d558fceb
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"Do unto others as you'd have done to you"~ The Golden Rule to Live by!
You are what you EAT and WHO you hang out with! Choices=Outcome~ what's YOUR choice??
I'm not perfect but I am going to die trying!!!
I attended two informational sessions, one held by Park Nicolett and one at Fairview Southdale. Like Sandie said, call your insurance to see which surgeons/ programs are in your plan.
I am hypothyroid and have been on Synthroid for years. Infact I take more Synthroid than my dad does and he had thyroid cancer about 20 years ago and they removed 1/2 of it. (Or maybe it was one or the other side, I forget) I am havin RNY and no one has told me hypothyroidism is an issue. As I lose weight, I know my dosage will decrease.
Good luck. This is a great place for support.
Kristy (weight loss below does not include 16lbs lost during pre WLS diet)
START: 325 Day of Surgery :309 GOAL: 180
Research your options. Talk with your doctor. Talk with others who have been through the process - whether they are at the beginning or the end of their journey.
Most importantly, ask questions. No question is a dumb question. And just when you think you've stumbled upon asking the most embarassing question, realize that its already been asked and answered. Not too many shy ones here. But you will get frank and honest answers.
If you are local, try and attend a coffee group. There are many within the twin cities. Feel free to join in any of these gatherings. If it weren't for these get togethers, I know that I wouldn't have been as successful as I have been. We are all in this together.
And welcome.
Kelly
Research your options as outlined by your insurance, research the different surgery options, read read read, and come here a lot.
Oh - and GOOD LUCK TO YOU!!!
Imperfect does not = unsuccessful
The process? Well, everyone has their own experience with that based on their insurance, program, surgery choice, etc.
I cannot repeat enough of what the others have said - just make sure you do your homework and that your head is in this game before you have surgery. They operate on your stomach not your head. You'll hear that a lot.
You have options regarding which surgery to have: LapBand, RNY (gastric bypass), VBG, and Duodenal Switch ("DS").
Also, take advantage of the free information session each program/surgeon's office has and go to as many as you can. This will help you to find which program you are most comfortable with.
You can head off a lot of headache initially by contacting your health insurance company and asking what your specific policy reads regarding weight loss surgery.
Good luck & keep coming here!
I live up near Brainerd. I considered going to Cuyuna Regional MC because my sister-in-law had her surgery there as did two good friends of mine. They all had the RNY. There's also a girl I work with that had the lap band. I don't know anything about the duodenal switch.
I also thought of going to Park Nicolette because that's where my endocrinologist is and I've read a lot of good things about Dr Jones and I like that he also deals with endocrine issues.
My insurance is BCBS of MN, it covers 80% after deductible. It requires prior written authorization before it will be approved, it also requires a 5 day notification before surgery.
