On My Way (Hopefully!) - ThinnerTimes

doxielover · 04-28-2008, 11:51 AM

I turned 55 last Thursday, and this Thursday I have my consult with Dr. Waldrep's office in Roseville! I'm still in flux about whether to have the lap rny or have the band placed. My BMI is 41 - 5'7" and 260. Right now my worst problem is degenerative disk disease in my lumbar spine. I will have my 8th bi-lateral epidural on the 8th. My 23 year old daughter is OK with me having the Lapband, but scared to death of the RNY. Could some of you "experienced" WLS'ers help me with sage advice? Since I have about 120 pounds to lose and this pain in my back and leg is increasingly persistent, what is the best option? I'm tired of living on 20 to 30 mg of Norco a day just in order to be able to teach. Now that Healthnet HMO has approved the initial consult I'm a little more confident that they will approve the surgery itself, but I'm still freaked out. I've read loads of horror stories about insurance approvals. Anyway, I enjoy reading everyone's posts and look forward to hearing from you all!

LyndasRoom · 04-28-2008, 12:10 PM

Best of luck to you.
In your instance, I think the lapband would be an exercise in frustration. When you have as much to lose as we...the rny is a much better option...of course you should discuss with your doctor, and bring your daughter, etc to an informational session so they can get their questions answered. With any surgery, your mileage will vary, as we are not all the same.

Corrine · 04-28-2008, 12:22 PM

I totally agree with Lynda on having a RNY as opposed to the band. But then it's a personal choice.

Just keep doing your research and discuss it more with your surgeon.

doxielover · 04-28-2008, 12:34 PM

Wow, thanks for the speedy replies. I just talked to Healthnet about referrals for the other consults such as psych and dietician. The customer service rep told me that my surgery is already approved as long as I meet all of the criteria. My only misstep is going to be the 6 month doctor supervised diet

I guess I will see what the surgeon's coordinator thinks about submitting the packet anyway. I am beginning to believe that lap RNY would be a better option for me - now I just need to convince that stubborn 23 year old daughter that Mom will be just fine!