Hello From Sweet Home Alabama

[alisha29 22]

Hello everyone!

I began my journey 18 months ago. It took me several months after going to my first seminar to.decide that gastric surgery was for me. At first, I thought this is the easy way out and that I just needed to work out more and eat less, so I gave that a try. 18 months later, I weigh more dieting and exercising! I love food, and I eat so often I don't even realize I am eating. I enjoy working out, but as my weight has climbed, it has become more difficult to work out. So, 7 months ago, I decided this surgery is for me! I am eventually healthy except for being fat and miserable (praise Yehovah for that!).

I did not have 3 years of documented medical history, mostly because I did not have health insurance until 18 months ago. My insurance, bcbs Alabama accepts dates photographs in lieu of, so I did submit pictures with all the other necessary documents. I was immediately denied! My doctor has said this is normal when submitting pictures in lieu of records and that he will resubmit and it will be approved. I am nervous that after all the time, money, and emotional investment that I will be denied. Has anyone had this experience? I am proceeding on as if I will get approval am seeing the nutritionist today. I need this surgery ASAP as I have plans for Disney in December. I hope this is a realistic goal. I would love to be walking around south Florida lighter and thinner.

Anyways, I refuse to quite even if denied. I will self pay but will need a loan for that. Anyone have suggestions for this avenue? I don't like debt, but honestly am willing to have it to live healthier. Mexico scares me, but seems way more affordable. Thoughts, experience, and support is greatly appreciated!

[@DomLorenVSG 107]

I'm from Auburn, AL and I too have AL BCBS- and they would not approve me with my additional issues because I was no morbidly obese- they ignored all my other issues such as insulin resistance, and severe PCOS with countless hospitalizations. Through a friend I found Dr. Alvarez at Endobariatric- not going to lie, wasn't cheap at $8,700 but the Birmingham and ATL docs wanted $30k out of pocket. SO I went to mexico and went with Dr. Alvarez. Hands down best surgery/hospitalization I've ever had. They were better than any american doctors or team of nurses. They treated me likea princess and while I was scared to death, Dr. Alvarez and his team are pro's at what they do and specialize ONLY in VSG maxing out at no more than 3 surgeries a day. My sleeve buddy and I agree it was the best choice we've ever done, and I'm so glad I did it in August. He also has a ton of Youtube videos out there explaining things and a fabulous book I wish I had read- BEFORE my surgery. If you get denied, I wouldn't even bother with BCBS anymore and look at personal financing.

[alisha29 22]

Thank you for sharing your experience. Did your few include airfare, hotel stays, etc. or was that surgery expense only?

[@DomLorenVSG 107]

Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) Surgery

- Hospital (2 nights)

- Hotel (2 nights) *

- All ground transportation *

- Preop blood test

- Preop Chest X-ray

- Surgery

- Anesthesiologist’s fee

- Surgeon’s assistant’s fee

- OR nurses’ fee

- Dr. Alvarez’s fee

- Nutritional information

- Discharge medications

- 24 hr support from Endobariatric.com staff in the U.S. and Mexico

Here's his website: http://www.endobariatric.com/candidate.htm

[@DomLorenVSG 107]

And here is his Youtube channel that I really found to be the most effective tool of them all. http://www.youtube.com/endobariatric

[Seven7 19]

You should check out Dr. Dirk Rodriguez in Dallas. He did mine on September 21st and I am doing great! Down 18 pounds already! I don't know what it costs to get it done in Mexico, but my insurance did not cover bariatric surgery so I paid out of pocket. I bet he's comparable to Mexico. His prices are listed right on his website. The hospital was nicer than our hotel and the nursing staff was wonderful. I have had absolutely no complications and Dr. Dirk called me personally when I got home to make sure I made the trip home ok. When I have any questions I just pick up the phone and call and he and his staff are readily available. I highly recommend him to anyone considering the sleeve!

[Lil' LO 9]

I am scheduled with Dr. A on Oct 11th. I am very excited. On my 4th day of 10 pre-op diet. I have heard so many great things about people's experience there I am looking forward to it. I am from Alex City not far from Auburn.

[alisha29 22]

I'm approved, I'm approved, I'm approved! Shout it from the roof tops, I'm approved!