?? for those who used Lapband Solution / AIGB

cl_tx_42 · August 28, 2006

Okay...I had my consult with AIGB on Friday...which went easier than I thought. And, my BMI was 39.7, which they graciously bumped up to 40!!

I went in for my lab work today.

They gave me the option to do a sleep study - at first I said okay but after thinking about it over the weekend, I don't want to incurr the cost unless necessary or if my insurance says I need it.

So, how long after having your consult, do you find out if you qualify, if insurance approves, and when to expect to be laying on the operating table.

I guess I'm just a bit antsy now!!!

Thanks for all of your responses....you guys/gals have been a great source of info!!! :clap2:

Randi · September 17, 2006

Okay...I had my consult with AIGB on Friday...which went easier than I thought. And, my BMI was 39.7, which they graciously bumped up to 40!!
I went in for my lab work today.

They gave me the option to do a sleep study - at first I said okay but after thinking about it over the weekend, I don't want to incurr the cost unless necessary or if my insurance says I need it.

So, how long after having your consult, do you find out if you qualify, if insurance approves, and when to expect to be laying on the operating table.

I guess I'm just a bit antsy now!!!

Thanks for all of your responses....you guys/gals have been a great source of info!!! :clap2:

I've never heard of a sleep study being an option. At one time, it was thought that sleep apnea primarily afflicted the obese. However, its been found to be an affliction of both the thin and the overweight alike.

When I was looking into the gastric bypass, my intial surgeon requested one to determine if I had sleep apnea which could pose a risk of not surviving the surgery. However, the surgeon I currently have did not request it for the lapband because she was aware that I had one previously. So, this time, I requested it myself because I want all the bases covered and because I've gained more weight since the last test, DH says he has noticed a change in my breathing, to include increased snoring, and also because I wasn't convinced the first test wasn't properly conducted by the sleep lab technicians.

If I do have sleep apnea, I will be prescribed a CPAP machine and I believe I'll have to use the machine for at least two weeks prior to surgery.

ralheit · September 17, 2006

It seems to be that the sleep study was required by my insurance. But I've been on a CPAP for about 5 years, so they already knew I had severe apnea and I wasn't required to do another. All insurances are different. My first try at the surgery was through Medical Mutual of Ohio and I went from April till January and was still trying to get approval. I changed to Anthem BC/BS January 1st and was approved in 3 weeks. So it just depends on how difficult they want to make it. Good Luck.