Puttingmyselffirst

Stacy, I have gotten so much mixed info on the requirements. I think you will be fine with the 6 month diet. The insurance coordinator at my surgeons office is very experienced with BCBS Federal and says it's really not difficult to get approved. She says that they don't follow the written requirements extremely closely, they are more lenient. I hope she is right! I really want to get approved! Good luck!

Honk, thanks for the info. Blair-- I don't have a surgery date yet. I'm waiting on insurance approval. My paperwork should be sent in by the end of the day. I am hoping for a February surgery date. I am so glad that the no carb thing is getting is getting a little easier for you. Day 2 is tough!! I just bought some Atkins shakes. Mostly because they were on sale and they are low carbs. Right now I'm trying to stock my fridge with things that will help me be successful without the carbs. Anything you swear by or has been a huge help?? I could use some ideas.

I am doing something very similar to you. I think it is a fabulous idea to start now! My doctor is a big fan of the low carb/no carb. I am on a no carb (less than 30 a day) until the liquid phase of my pre-op diet. He says it drastically shrinks the liver and makes surgery much more successful. I am on day 2, and it is very difficult. I am sticking to meats, cheeses, and some green veggies. I am hoping it gets easier as the days pass. I think this will help me get accustomed to eating with the band as well. Good Luck!

Congratulations! My paperwork will be submitted to BCBS Federal by the end of the week. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a speedy approval .

I was/still am in a similar situation as you. I have researched the band, know that it is the right thing for me. I have struggled with my weight for years and years. I have even decided that I will be a self pay if it has to come down to it. However, having insurance cover it would be ideal. My BMI was barely 40, actually closer to 38.5. It seemed ridiculous to me to have 5-10 lbs. decide on my insurance approval. So I drank a ton of water before my first surgeon appointment, wore the heaviest pair of jeans and sweater I could find, left my keys and cell phone in my pocket (even took my hubby's phone), and was measured at a BMI 40 that is the weight that will be submitting.To my insurance. People may think this is unethical, but I am doing this to better my life. Good luck to you! I will be keeping my fingers crossed fir you and me.