Lap-Band w/health Alliance insurance any problem with them okaying the procedure

[Btjcats]

I have Health Alliance and I am looking into getting the Lap-Band done.  However a friend of mine said that you have to go through hoops to get them to okay the procedure.

Second I would like to know if any one has failed losing weight with the lap-band?  Do you know why you failed? Was it the band or some medical condition?

Are there any weird restrictions?

I have a appointment with "Wish Center" in Chicago.

[Bevlyann]

I have had a band over 3 years and there are no "weird" restrictions, really.  I've lost 80 pounds but I am also a health professional who works with band pts and there is a small %age who do not lose significantly.  All of the ones I know did not work the program at all.  There are some guidelines like not drinking with meals, not drinking caloric things or having soft foods too often, etc.  You must remember that this is only a tool and you will absolutely still have to make lifestyle changes and better food choices.  The band does not do it for you...it only helps.  For me, it made it possible.

Bev