ren0318

My BMI is right at 35 (I have diabetes among other things), anyone with a lower BMI wanna share your experience? I'm wondering with a lower BMI were you worried about losing to much weight? Or were there any other complications due to the BMI? Thanks Ren

I just asked that over the weekend:) to Bypass vs Sleeve

I have severe GERD! MAJOR! That adds another vote for bypass:)

I've been told that Cigna requires a 2 year weight history, a 5 year weight history (by doctors offices and WLS patients) however I contacted Cigna and they state that is not required. I also looked up their policy and requirements for WLS and nowhere does it say a past weight history is required. I've been at my current weight for almost 2 years. Any insight?

Thanks everyone, very helpful!

The malabsorbation (is this not absorbing nutrients?) and dumping, what is that?

I'm curious why you went with the bypass over the sleeve. Just trying to make the decision as to which one I want. I do have type 2 diabetes, I read that the bypass is really good for that, however the pouch can stretches which concerns me. Thanks for the input.

Anyone used Dr. Needleman at Ohio State? I would like to hear about your experience, insurance process, support etc? Thanks

Just about to start the process, in the Columbus area!

Good Luck! Where in the process are you?

Hello! I've been lurking around the board for a bit reading all the great posts. Here's my story, struggled my entire life with weight and food! Lost with Weight Watchers once about 20 years ago, have tried numerous times since with no luck at sticking to it since I developed diabetes about 10 years agao, after I swore I would not let it get me(my father died from complications from diabetes). I also have high chlorestrol, high triglycrides (life threthening high), thyroid problems, major reflux, sleeping problems. I'm a hot mess! My BMI is right at 35, not as high as some, but I'm extremly effected by this extra weight. Last year the doctor put me on an insulin pump, gained 25 so far from that! I've studied up on the LapBand and the sleeve. However everyone I talk to says my best chances of diabetes remission is the bypass. It is sad to me that I need to take such drastic measures to control my weight, but it is what it is. I hear all sorts of requirements about insurance, however I'm determined to fight if they say no. The amount they pay each month for my insulin alone is astronomical. Some where close to $900, and that' s only for the insulin, not all my other meds. I went to a seminar back in January with someone from work, but didn't act on anything, but now I'm ready. If they turn me down I will appeal. My insurance is self funded by my company I've heard you have a better chance of getting a decline over turned if your in a self funded plan. Anyway, just wanted to say hello and make some friends to go along my journey with! PS: I have Cigna insurance (if anyone has anything to share about them) Renee

Did anyone get the surgery after gaining weight after a hysterectomy? Just curious how that turned out?

what insurance company do you have?

That's great! Last week I went to the seminar for the surgery and the doctor said "sometimes peoples taste buds change". A lady who has had the bypass spoke to our group and she said she was a big sweet eater before surgery now, cant' stand it! I can only wish!

I'm sitting right at 34.9, I've been reading and researching for months. I have diabetes, GERD, high cholrestrol, high blood pressure, I just told my husband last night I'm about to make the call and get started on the journey in January. For the life of me I don't understand insurance companies.They would rather pay out over $900 a month for just my insulin,plus all my other meds, rather than pay for the surgery for lower BMI. I personal think the BMI requirement should be lowered if you have co-morbilities.

I got a hold of my sugeron's office and the insurance person said she was pretty sure one from 2012 and one from 2013 would work.....I'm nervous to go through the 3 month diet and all the testing and then get denied....

I'm right on the BMI line for the sugery, and I know I have to have a 2 year weight history submitted, does anyone know if it has to be a full 24 months, or say one weight that meets in 2012 and another in 2013. Or would I have to have the weight all of 2012, all of 2013 and then try for sugery in 2014? I hope my question makes sense.

WOW, You look great! So happy for you!

You look great! Congrats!

Can anyone who has cigna tell me if they required a weight history and if so for how long? My BMI is right on the line of 35 with diabetes. My weight has been creeping over the past year. Someone told me 2 years showing your are at the BMI that is high enough for the surgery, does anyone know if that's corrrect?

Does anyone happen to know how much "weight" history that cigna requires? And also when the insurance company does require a weight history, are they looking for you to be the same exact weight for the entire history time? I mean many of us flucuate from time to time. Thanks!

I know this sounds really bad, but but did anyone gain to get approved?

ok thanks to you both, not sure how I confused the two of them! congrat Kia, how are you feeling?

I got myself confused the Plication and the Sleeve are two different things correct?

WOW, i feel like I was lead to your post! I am very similar to you, I have type 2, just was put on an insulin pump last week, I take about 7 different meds for Gerd, high cholesterol, sleep, diabetes, blood pressure etc....I recently started looking into weight loss options, I was leaning towards lapband, but the sleeve seems very intriguing to me. I too am on the low side having a BMI of only 32, I have been on and off insulin the past 10 years, every time I have to go back, the weight comes pouring on. I'm sure with the pump the same or worse will happen...I really can't afford the surgery on my own, but I'm so over all this I'm only 44 and want to be healthy! Sick of the shots, the pills, the back pain, all of it! I did call Dr. Curry's office here in Ohio yesterday and spoke with someone who was very informative, I guess I have to start saving money or hope I can gain 17lbs so the insurance will cover it (crazy I know), you would think the insurance companies would wake up and see that all the money they are putting out for meds, is crazy in comparison to surgery! Please keep us posted, you are truly an inspiration! Ren