On the Cusp - need advice please! :)

[Renee1003 2]

I'm going to meet with a doctor regarding the LAP-BAND® on 10/4 and they wanted two weights from 2008 and 2009. The highest weight I was in 2008 & 2009 made me a 34.2 BMI and my highest weights in 2010 put me at around 36.8.

The ONLY reason I had gone down in weight is because of a very stressful situation where I just couldn't eat.

I have diabetes (2 metformins per day) and hypothyroidism and my triglicerides are thru the roof....do I have a chance of being approved?? I'm also turning 41 on 10/3 and definitely spiraling into menopause after a partial hysterectomy in 2006. I'm not losing no matter what I do - i'm only maintaining and gaining.

I'm scared to take such drastic measures but i'm running out of options.... I'd appreciate any encouragement, words of advice, support...... What do you think my chances are of getting approved (i have aetna)

[browneyedgirl52 0]

I don't meet the BMI either, but my surgeon said because of the co-morbidities I will be covered by the insurance. I have BCBS of Delaware and had to do six months of education. I have finished those 6 months and my surgery is scheduled for November 1. I still do not have an official approval from the insurance company...I only have the word of the surgeon's office that I will be covered. I can only wait now. I'm hoping for the best and wishing you the best as well.

[Renee1003 2]

That final approval is quite nerve wracking!! You go thru so many tests & appts to only have to wait. I have a 3 month wait - my surgery date is set for 1/18/11 and most of my appts are set for the next couple weeks just in case they require further testing - i just wanna get this done!

When do they submit for the approval? after final nutrition class....? Good luck!!!!

[sunshine diva 0]

hi, i am getting banded on nov. 23. my bmi is 35. my surgeon told me that i am a perfect candidate for the band because i don't have a lot of weight to lose and minimal health problems. i have high blood pressure, sleep apnea, high cholesteral, and my insurance took me. i have united health care.

you'll be fine.

[onthego317 4]

I got banded with a BMI of 32 but my insurance wouldn't cover it. I'm down 22 lbs this morning and I think it was worth every penny!