Mary :)

Hi Everyone ~ I got a call from my surgeon's office and they scheduled me for my first meeting with the surgeon on April 2. I can't believe I have to wait so long but I'm just proud of myself that I've come this far. Ok, the billing clerk didnt sound too optimistic about me getting the VSG approved. She said that they have only done 4 or 5 VSGs and only 1 person got approved on the first try and the rest were appeals. I called my insurance company and gave them the code that I saw on this website (43755). He said that the code is in their system but he gave me the run around on whether they would approve it or not. He couldnt tell me if its still considered experimental or now a legit WLS. I hate having to wait the next two months not knowing if I even have a shot at this surgery. I started relooking at RNY and it still makes me completely uneasy. Any advice would be great!!!!!

I have to agree...time might be on my side. I'm hoping that it proves to be true. I have a high BMI (over 50) so I'm hoping that this might help my case as well. Thanks everyone!

Thank you for your replies. I always appreciate it! I live in Buffalo, New York and have Independent Health. My policy does cover weight loss surgery and I pray that I can get the Sleeve. Does anyone have any experience with this insurance?

Hi everyone ~ I have my psychologist appointment tomorrow and I'm pretty nervous. I've never been to a psychologist. I really dont know what to expect and I dont want to say the wrong thing but want to be completely honest with him. I truly want to be sure that WLS is for me. Can anyone provide their experiences? Thanks so much!!!

Hi Everyone ~ thanks so much for your replies. I love hearing from all of you. Such a great support system! I'll keep you posted and let you know how it goes! Take care

Good Morning everyone, Since I've been browsing these boards, I've seen a lot of people having issues with their gallbladder and even having them removed during surgery. Does WLS surgery cause issues for your gallbladder? Thanks in advance!

Hello ~ This is my first posting but I've been reading all of your wonderful posts for a few weeks now. Just a little background about me...I've been heavy my whole life. A few years ago I got myself in the low 200's and to my that was thin! Unfortunately, I've let myself seriously go and I'm up to 350. Last year, I went to my PCP and told him that I wanted the RNY. He was supportive and gave me the referral. Well, I ended up chickening out and tried one last ditch effort with WW. I ended up losing about 40 pounds but successfully put back every pound and then some. I gave up on WLS surgery and dieting all together. A few months back I discovered the VSG and thought to myself that it is definitely a surgery that I be comfortable with and worth exploring. This past week, I got the courage to see my PCP and asked for another referral to a surgeon who does the VSG. Well, my PCP did not tip toe around my feelings. He definitely voiced his disappointment about me not having WLS. He said that he can't help me if I don't take his advice and is STRONGLY encouraging me to have the surgery. Which he is probably right. He gave me the referral and said that he would take care of the necessary paperwork. I definitely got the tough love treatment. I trying to find the right time to tell my family that this is all happening. By the way, I'm single and 30 years old. I know they will be totally supportive but I feel bad for them to see their daughter have to go through this. I've let myself go so bad that my only saving grace is surgery. Ok, the concerns..... 1) Lactose Intolerance, does this happen to everyone? If it should happen, does it go away or am I stuck with it? 2) The hair loss ?...I'm expecting it to happen but my hair is the only thing I get compliments on. Will it grow back? Will it be like it used to be? 3) Bowel issues...as a child I had lots of bowel issues and I can still remember the horrible experiences. Will constipation always be a problem after VSG? 4) Alcohol...I do enjoy a drink now and then. Will I be able to enjoy a glass of wine or a vodka drink? I would not attempt this until way further out. Thank you all so much for letting me get this off my chest. You are all a great comfort and full of advice and knowledge. I look forward to getting to know you. Thanks for your insights. :thumbup1:

Hi everyone! I just want to thank all of you for your support. Your insight, advice and kind words are priceless to me.

TiffyKins ~ thanks so much for the reply. I had a feeling you would be one of the first to reply. You are such a great support on this website. I'll definitely keep you posted. I have my PSY on the 26th. It will be interesting to hear what he has to say. I hope my experience is as good as yours has! Many thanks and I'm sure I'll be talking with you soon!!

Thank you for the kind advice you gave me regarding the beginning steps of this journey. You are all an inspiration. Danielle - best of luck tomorrow!

Hello! I'm wondering if someone could give me a bit of advice. I'm at the very beginning stages of my lap band journey. Once I receive my application from BGH, should I make an appointment with my PCP so he can help me get started on the paperwork? I'm not sure how to get all the information in to BGH. For all of you who are on this journey and have gone through the process, I would greatly appreciate your help and support. Best wishes for a happy and healthy New Year!