Newbie

[Natalie]

Hi everyone, I'm new here and am going to get the lap band procedure done. My insurance company requires me to do a full cycle of nutritionist, support groups, psychological eval, etc. I am going to an informational session next week.

Checking out the forum, I see alot of discussion about fills. I have an idea what it is, but can someone explain? Also, do most insurance companies pay for that and if not, what is the typical cost?

Also, I am afraid of loose skin. I am overweight 5'7" and 240...but I am fairly muscular except in my belly. How have you guys faired with the issue of loose skin?

Thanks

[Kittycat]

Hello and Welcome!!

Congrats on your decision!!!

Fills also called adjustments are done periodically to tighten the band and increase restriction.

When you have the surgery, they sew the port to your stomach muscle. The port has a long cord attached to the band around your stomach. Inside the band is a balloon which contains the fill.

After your surgery, at approximately 5-6 weeks you will get a fill to tighten the band, the fill doctor will inject saline into the port located around the largest scar and you will be required to go back on liquids for a few days to let it settle. It can take 3 or more fills to get to your "sweetspot" which is premium restriction, whereby you can only eat maximum 3/4 cup of food per meal.

If your surgery is covered by insurance, that's wonderful...I have not heard of fills being covered and the cost depends on where you go and how often. I would recommend you start researching your area for a fill centre now.

Good luck and if you have any more questions, we are here!!

[jhawkchick75]

Welcome to the group and congrats on your decision! Look through all the topics and you will find all kinds of great information here. Good luck!

[UTdigiMOM]

The loose skin dilemma is what drew me to the band in the first place. Because the weight loss is slower...patients generally don't need extensive plastic surgery to repair loose, stretched out skin. This is what I found in my research. I started out at 205 and I'm 5 ft. 4 1/2. My belly fat is my worst area also. I'm only 22 days post- op so I have a ways to go until I can give you an answer from personal experience.

Welcome and good luck. This board is great!