I know things are done differently in the US than in Canada but there are some things I just don't get. We are lucky because it is covered by our provincial health plan so the expense is covered. However, 6 years ago I paid 16 000.00 for a lap band instead of the surgery because I wanted to avoid permanent change - ha, ha! Should have just done it then and saved a fortune. Wanted to know if I could resell my band when it was taken out lol (just kidding).

1. Why do they make you lose so much weight before surgery. If losing weight was that easy for you, you wouldn't need the surgery in the first place! yes, i realize you need to demonstrate you are ready to lose weight and that it is a tool not a solution but come on! THis is not easy.

2. Do they have any follow up for you? It seems that alot of people on the site don't have the follow up in place. i am over an hour away but still have to see my surgeon post op and also a nurse clinician, dietician and social work if required. They will follow you at least 5 years and more if you want. This is also covered by OHIP.

Not trying to "rub this in your face" i am a nurse so I realize your US system is different, I had to use the Optifast shakes (not covered lol) for 4 weeks prior to surgery to clear fat from my liver but no weight loss was set. I also had to go through lots of screening, meetings and tests before being approved for surgery but weight loss was not a requirement although I'm sure they hoped it would be. The shakes were tough as they were the only thing to eat for that 4 week period but that was to prevent damage to your liver when they lift it up in surgery to access your stomach.

Hope you all do well in your prerequisite procedure and good luck getting to your goal of losing weight. i am just over 2 mos post op and have more energy and feel great. I have lost almost 40 lbs and people are noticing already. 160 more to go lol.

Deb