vamaid

I have just been informed (by surgeon's ofc) my employer specifically excluded the weight loss surgery rider on on their group plan. She suggested perhaps the employer would add it to their plan if they knew an employee wanted it. My guess is the employer excluded it because they didn't want employees having WLS on their dime. To make matters worse, I'm not an employee there anymore - I am paying my health insurance premiums via COBRA. In any case, is anyone aware of someone having a successful appeal (due to BMI, co-mobities, medical necessity) when the group's policy did not include WLS? Thanks.

Anyone have experience with these guys? obesitylaw.com

We who know plus-sizes immediately recognize the difference between a size 30 and a 24. (What an erormous accomplishment for you!) But I don't think most people do - to them anything over a size 18 is fat ... period. Keep fixing yourself up nicely, don't revert back to the fat clothes. Someone will notice when you least expect it.

I am a relative newcomer in the midst of research. My concern is the insurance requirement that you prove you have been unsuccessful on physician-monitored weight loss programs. I cannot do that. I have never been on a physician-monitored diet (I am not qualified for various medications - Xenical, Meridia for example, due to health issues.) I went on South Beach about two years ago and lost 30 pounds - all gained back, of course. I lost 40 pounds on WW twenty years ago. So does this mean I will have to go on a physician-monitored diet, lose weight, and then gain it all back before I can be approved???? I have also read that perhaps one is required to go on the post-surgery diet before surgery. Let's say I do that and lose some weight. Will they then come back to me and say obviously I can lose on the diet without the surgery?? This is the only requirement I am concerned about meeting. My BMI is 51 and I have several co-morbities. Jeez ... the reason I need the surgery is I have been unable to diet! Any guidance deeply appreciated. Thanks.

Overeating is OVEREATING no matter how it is done. Food for thought ... Thanks.

I know bariatric surgery is performed on some older adults, but is there an age at which doctors consider you at increased risk? I read somewhere that after age 55 surgery increases quality of life but not length of life. Would love to hear comments from older forum members. Also, what if I'm a grazer (eat smaller amounts more times a day) rather than a binger (eat large amounts at one sitting)? Does that mean the restriction aspect of lap band may not be as successful for me? My overweight is due more to poor food choices and a sedentary lifestyle rather than overeating. Thanks to all of you experts for helping a rookie.

I am not sure, but I think Dr Kramer, who practices with Dr Sass, does lap band.