What should I expect?

nrmanning · 10-13-2008, 07:24 PM

I feel like there is so much information and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed. My surgery date is Dec 4 which is a little over 7 weeks away. I have been reading the different threads for information but think the more I read the more overwhelmed I become.

This is what I have been told.

Blood tests/echocardiogram this week (not sure if I spelled that right)
Liquid diet starts 11/20
Surgery dec 4

I have read on here about many people having a psych consult. Do all drs do that? I feel like I am missing out on something. I started this journey in Feb (I posted March in another thread) and had to switch drs due to not getting any help from the dr to fight the insurance after first two denials.

Thoughts?

GR8 · 10-13-2008, 07:50 PM

I had all the items you mentioned plus I had a psych eval - had a visit with exercise trainer; nutritionist; support meeting; 2 hour training/educational class. (all above required)

I think that was it!

dbrengle · 10-13-2008, 07:58 PM

I understand how you feel. I have been banded since 08/19 and I still get overwhelmed when I come on here, but there is alot of good information on here as well. You have to remember eveyone is different and you will find out your strengths when the time comes.
As far what the doctors ask you to do is up to them, again all doctors are different. Im in NC and my doc had me do a echocardiogram, bone density, upper gi, and psych visit. If you doctor doesnt make you do it then do fret about it. Take it and go on.
You usually start a liquid diet 2 weeks prior/after surgery. You will lose anywhere from 10-15 pounds or maybe more the first 2 weeks, and more after surgery. I know I wasnt hungry at all afterwards, but I couldnt wait to get something to drink. That sucks that you doc didnt fight for you, im glad you found another one that will

Everyone needs to be on the same playing field, and they didnt seem to be a teamplayer.
Good luck and your surgery is on my 5th wedding anniversary so it will be a GREAT day!!!

I feel like there is so much information and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed. My surgery date is Dec 4 which is a little over 7 weeks away. I have been reading the different threads for information but think the more I read the more overwhelmed I become.

This is what I have been told.

Blood tests/echocardiogram this week (not sure if I spelled that right)
Liquid diet starts 11/20
Surgery dec 4

I have read on here about many people having a psych consult. Do all drs do that? I feel like I am missing out on something. I started this journey in Feb (I posted March in another thread) and had to switch drs due to not getting any help from the dr to fight the insurance after first two denials.

Thoughts?

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Mellis · 10-13-2008, 08:19 PM

it truly does depend on which dr you have--and what their practice is. Example--I had none of the stuff you mentioned--so you can see it goes from nothing to everything

RestlessMonkey · 10-13-2008, 09:06 PM

Mellis is right on; different doctors require different preop tests, preop diets, post op diets etc. That's one reason this site can be so overwhelming! The important thing to remember is to do what YOUR DOCTOR tells you to. You trust him/her with your life during the surgery, so trust him to steer you the right way pre and post op. This site is great for support and general info, but bottom line, do what your surgeon tells you! :)

I love my band and hope you love yours too! :)

thin2win · 10-13-2008, 09:31 PM

Wow,congrats!
I have my first appt.with my Dr.on Nov.10. I went to seminar about 3 weeks ago. I also have alot of questions. I have been researching for a couple of months and talking to friends who have had the LAP-BAND^® as well. Did they tell you why you were denied previously?
Thanks!

nrmanning · 10-13-2008, 09:32 PM

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the responses.

nrmanning · 10-13-2008, 09:52 PM

The first time I was denied, it was because I was not sick enough. So I think this time the difference was the drs notes instead of a letter from my dr with my height and weight.

Nina

thin2win · 10-13-2008, 10:08 PM

Thanks! I already got 5 years of chart notes from my PCP and 3 years of Weight Watcher folders of losses and gains. My BMI is 39 and I weigh 227 at 5'4". I also have osteoarthritis and alittle bit of high blood pressure. I just hope to have everything taken care of when I see the surgeon. We will still need to submit to Premera,so I'm trying to be "prepared"!

Mellis · 10-13-2008, 11:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nrmanning

The first time I was denied, it was because I was not sick enough.
Nina

That is the biggest difference I have seen between US docs and Mex docs--here in the US you have to be sick first--the Mex docs do the surgery before you get sick to prevent the comorbidities!!

RestlessMonkey · 10-13-2008, 11:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mellis

That is the biggest difference I have seen between US docs and Mex docs--here in the US you have to be sick first--the Mex docs do the surgery before you get sick to prevent the comorbidities!!

Actually the difference is that over here insurance often pays and many of the companies have various prereqs before they'll pony up the dough. If you are self pay, comorbidities aren't usually required over here, either. Our surgeons pay WAY more in malpractice insurance, though. Mexican doctors are essentially protected from being sued if they slip up, where as here you have recourse. SO US docs charge more, but they have more overhead, too. But comorbidities are usually just a factor to qualify with insurance companies.