This is a REALLY GOOD topic to discuss! I felt EXACTLY the same way you do! EXACTLY! I tried to get the insurance company to waive it because of my liver disease, arguing that every day that we delay, more damage is happening to my liver and 6 months is precious time needed to take action to avoid a transplant! They wouldn't budge from this requirement.

My surgeon had me meet with one of his partners monthly during the 6 months. I told her I didn't WANT to diet and lose weight because I was afraid the insurance company would deny it because I could lose weight. She told me not to worry about it. She had never seen anyone denied after the six month wait.

What I didn't expect was how much I benefitted from that 6 months. My NUT doctor gave me helpful hints to help me to adapt to permanent changes (like no more carbonated drinks, finding alternative beverages). And, I had lots of time to really think about the PERMANENT life change. If I had the surgery as fast as I had wanted (within a few weeks), I would have been second-guessing my decision. I would have doubted myself and maybe even regretted it. As it is, I was able to go into that OR, with an incredible sense of peace, and joyful anticipation of the birth of my NEW LIFE.

It's okay to be frustrated, but please know that a lot of good will come from this wait. And, it will DEFINITELY be worth it!

6 months seems so long but once you're rolling in for your new sleeve you'll be thinking "wow I can't believe this day is here already!" Take the time to really start taking care of yourself:)

I know....it will help me to prepare. I've already been preparing for nearly a year though.

I've totally weaned myself off of any carbonated drinks, when I used to be addicted to diet cokes. I don't drink alcohol....except maybe once every six months or so. I don't really like the way it makes me feel. I only drink water now, but every now and then I'll have lemonade, and rarely, tea. I have found some protein drinks that I like, and I swap them for meals every now and then. The Premier Protein chocolate drinks are exceptionally good.

I think my main problem right now is getting in any exercise. I had knee surgery in December, and my knees still bother me to the point where it is difficult to walk, much less walk any length of time. Swimming pools are not an option. I could join a local gym, but the motivation to go just isn't present. THAT is what I need to work on.

i know exactly how you feel, and despite my 6 month weight loss plan, it sucked because HELLO I have been on diets my whole entire life, I do admit, it goes by so quick before you know it, it's go time! Don't give up, hang in there and remember whenever your sleeve date is all EYES will be on you God Bless

I was fortunate that I only had to do 3 months; however, you can learn alot during this time. This prep time helps prepare you for after surgery. It is a big change. I would absolutely do it all over again! I feel like a brand new person!! Just hang in there - it will be worth it.

I have a 6 month supervised diet plan as well. I am on month 4 now, and it seems like I just started. I had the same thoughts you did, what did 6 months matter. But you know what I have been able to make even more progress and this last visit with my PCP was so good we talked about things I never thought I would find helpful. You too will have that ah ha moment and you will find that this 6 months was needed. Good luck we will be here for you. It will pass quickly.

I agree with everyone. I know your frustration. A little over a year ago after researching the sleeve and picking the brain of a friend of mine who had it, I decided I needed this surgery too and I needed it NOW. Then I contacted my insurance and got the same news you recieved. I could have spit bullets that day! lol I ended up taking a whole year. I took 6 months longer than I needed to make this decision. Hang in there and if you really want this you will get through these insurance hoops and get it done! Hang in there and vent here anytime you need to. Somebody if not most of us have or are going through the same struggles.

Neat I said hang in there twice. Dingbat!

3 more months to go *sigh*. It isn't going by very fast at all.

Yeah...I know....whine, whine whine!

Well.... I finished my 6 months last November, and everything was submitted to my insurance. BCBS of Alabama has a reputation of denial on the first try, and yes, my initial application was applied. I rounded up some more medical records and my surgeon re-submitted everything, and whaddya know, I was approved a week and a half later. I'm not quite sure why they approved me the second try, but I'm happy. My sleeve date is February 25, 2014. It has been a long haul, and I'm not quite there yet, but the beginning is in sight!

All it really is is a requirement from the insurance company...not necessarly the dr. requirements for ANY bariatric surgery covered under my insurance were for 1...Yes only ONE meeting with a NUT, 1 psych eval, and a letter of medical necessity from my PCP. This may have something to do with the fact that I work at the hospital where my surgery will be performed...so it's their insurance. Also, I had NO pre-op diet at all! I am however getting the band not the sleeve! This 6 month diet WILL help you in the long run if you are determined!! Good luck!!