eagertolose

How were you notified of approval? Did you get a phone call from the insurance company or doctor's office...or did you get a letter?

Hi JeeJee...your profile sounds exactly like mine. I, too, have Aetna PPO. I'm 42 years old, BMI is 38, extremely high blood pressure (average is around 180/100 even with medicine), GERD, left ventricular hypertrophy and some kind of heel pain that's apparently associated w/ my weight, according to my PCP. I've been denied once already because the surgery wasn't 'medically necessary'. I continue to jump thru the hoops: just finished my 3 months w/ nutrionist, saw 2 psychiatrists, physical therapist, endoscopy, meeting w/ my PCP every month, and medically cleared by my cardiologist. Tomorrow I have my sleep study. Supposedly, after I had my last nutrition appt. the surgeon's office sent in my paperwork again to Aetna. That was 1.5 weeks ago - I still haven't heard anything. I have alot of people praying for me. I have 2 small children...I don't want to stroke out! I wish you the best of luck...please keep in touch!

Dear LB927, I'm a new user to this site and I've been crusing thru the forum and came across your message. About two weeks ago my PCP suggested that I consider the LB procedure. Initially, I was dead set against it but now I'm seriously considering it. I'm 42 yoa, 5'5", 218 lbs w/ a BMI of 37 (I think). I have several co-morbitity's such as extremely high blood pressure and have just recently been discharged from an ICU for chest pain. I've been on several medications for it but it's still not good, currently it's 150/100. It's been as high at 200/170. During the past 16 years, I've tried many, many weight loss programs (WW, JC, Atkins, nutritionist, personal trainer, etc.) - I have proof of a majority of these things. Anyhow...I'm feel I'm at my wit's end and am now really considering this procedure. I, too, have Aetna and was really surprised to see how fast you got approved compared to all the other postings. Can you offer any advise as I begin this process? I wish you the best of luck; I hope you'll be up to logging on during your recovery period. I'd enjoy hearing how you'll be progressing.