New to the site. Looking for some answers.

[HungryMel 2]

Hello, i am new to this site. I am in the middle of my Pre-op. In January I will have all the Dr apts completed, from there I can then get a surgery date. I have a few questions and i am hoping I can get some answers here.

My insurance is HIP Prime HMO, has anyone ever been denied or has issues with covering the cost of the surgery?

Has anyone NOT quit smoking and lied about it?

Why would my Dr say he can do one insecion instead of all 6?

I was told about 7 days recovery and back to work w/no heavy lifting etc, anyone disagree with that?

[reverie 49]

1. As long as you meet your insurance's requirements, you are usually okay.

2. No, never smoked, and I wouldn't advise doing so. If you're getting this surgery to get healthy, you should probably kick that habit as well. Smoking can lead to a lot of complications during and after surgery. My surgeon will not operate on a smoker; it's too risky.

3. Some doctors can go in through the belly button to do the surgery.

4. That's about right I took off 2 weeks because I had the time, but could have gone back sooner.

[Cocoabean 430]

My surgeon runs a blood test to check for nicotine to be sure you've quit. If you haven't, you don't get surgery.

One to two weeks recovery is average. I took off one week and did half time the second.