How long is the process?

[hanablu 0]

I'm seriously thinking about getting lap band surgery. Can anyone tell me how long the whole process takes? I'm planning on making my first app't soon. How long after my first app't might I be scheduled for the surgery. I have Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance. Anyone have good luck with them approving the procedure? Sorry for all the questions. Thanks for your replies!

[JARS517 54]

For me, it took about 6 months from my first consult. There were several procedures to have completed (Upper GI, chest xray, bloodwork, EKG) and then visits with dietician, psych and exercise. I have BC/BS and they approved with 1st letter. It depends on your physician. I have a friend that had bypass and all of hers was completed in 6-8 weeks. Best of luck!

[hanablu 0]

Thanks for the info, Jars!

[hanablu 0]

I weigh 241. Will I be a candidate for the surgery? I'm also 5'4. I would like to lose 100lbs. I think my BMI is 31

[JARS517 54]

I ran your stats through a BMI calculator and your bmi is 41. You would most likely qualify. Do you have any other health problems?

[Instyle98 240]

It will greatly depend on what you insurance requires. Mine required a 4 month waiting period during which I had to have 2 nutritional consults, a psych eval, records showing a minimum of a 2 year history of obesity, and a history of previous attempts at weight loss. Then I had to complete the requirements of the surgery center/surgeon - lab work, PFT, ECG, medical clearance from my cardiologist, and 2 week pre-op diet. The time went by faster than I thought it would. They were ready to do the surgery before I was!

[winkie80 147]

Every insurance policy is written differently. You will need to contact them to see if you have coverage and what their requirements are to be approved. I'm in the process right now and they require a 3 month medically monitored weight loss, a psych eval, 2 years of medically noted weight and an appointment with a nutritionist.

My surgeons office takes it a step further and requires a 10% of access weight loss (for me this is 19lbs), a sleep study, a letter of support from PCP and to attend a support group meeting. All in all I'm looking at a total of 4 to 5 months before I am cleared for sugery.