diggity

My PCP came through and spoke directly to UHC. They were able to gather the correct documents and I have now been approved! My pre-op is August 23rd and surgery date is August 29th with Dr. Spiegel.

:whoo::whoo::whoo:

Get your Primary Care Physician involved. They can provide the clinical documentation you need to prove that you are severely obese with co-morbidities and medically need Lap Band surgery.

I'm not sure what NHI standards are though... explain? Some plans state that you must be 40 BMI or higher while others will state 35 BMI or higher with co-morbidities. Find out what the requirements are exactly. To get a straight answer call teh Care Coordination for United Health Care, 1-866-823-1807. Someone there can explain exactly what your companies stance on WLS.

Good Luck!

Good news! It seems my PCP knows exactly what they need for the appeal and is faxing it to UHC on Monday. I an so excited. I really think I could have my band by the end of August. My weight has been such a struggle I can't what to be given this tool. I feel like I will have a new adult life!

Awesome Peggy1011!!! That is such good news. You have really made me feel so much better!

Thanks!!!

United Health Care denieds me because of "lack of objective documentation". They cover 35 BMI or more with co-morbidities, so that isn't the issue. I have 35 BMI with Hypertension, high-cholesterol, and tons of bad family history.

:help:Can anyone tell me what documentation is really needed so I can get this done ASAP?!?!?

Thanks for any help!

Thank you!

Yes, if insurance denies I will self-pay, but it just wouldn't be as soon as I like.

I agree and based on those health conditions my insurance may cover it. I'll just have to see at my consultation.

Thanks for your response!

My bad, I just saw that...

I am curious how many of you have experienced Hair loss. I have not been banded but really would like to know if this is a general problem.

Thanks!

Bad news, it looks like my insurance only covers this is you have a BMI of 40 or more. I coudl have sworn when I spoke with someone early last week they said 35 or more with comorbidities...

Great, thanks for the info!

How long does it take from consultation to surgery?

HA! Good luck getting anything from my account after the cost of this surgery! :scalesno:

Hey, 5683 spells love, no? I've used it for years for my pin numbers...

Not to be exclusionary, but I was wondering if there are any guys out there that can provide some feedback on their experiences with Lapband.

Thanks!

Just as a note...The Liver is located under the ribs on the right hand side of the body.

I was also diagnosed with a fatty liver...It didn't cause any problems with the surgery that I am aware of. I had to do a Two week liquid diet prior to the surgery. I was told this was to assist in shrinking the liver some. The liver is in the way regardless if it's fatty or not. The end of it right across the top of the stomach right where the surgeon is going to be working. Basically are bodies store fat "Everywhere" including the organs.

Right, I guess the liver didn't get in the way at all?

Good link: Fatty Liver

I was diagnosed with a fatty liver prior to surgery. It was also enlarged. To help with the fatty & enlarged liver I had to do Optifast two weeks prior to surgery. All went well. I did have some tenderness on my left side (liver area) for a couple weeks. Maybe bruised during the procedure? Not sure....I will be 2 years out July 29. Best of Luck on your journey!

Maudeispam, 2 years? How have you adjusted? Did your liver issue go away?

I agree. I am going to get this done anyway possible. Thanks for the feedback everybody!

Sweet! That is exactly what I need. I think I really found my answer. Thanks!

I have friends that have said the same thing in the past, "Just stop eating as much". They also have incredible self-control. I'm not sure they understand how difficult it is.

Does the band reduce your hunger significantly? That is my problem. I have dieted and worked out and lost weight, but then the hunger hits and I can't stop myself. or I get discouraged because the weight is coming off so slowly.

I have heard so many good things about him and his staff. Thanks for the response!

Awesome! I was wondering what the experience has been like for you, as a guy. Do you feel like the weight is coming off at the pace you want? Did you tell your friends about it?

I still haven't had the consult. i will have it June 27th. I would be having it with Dr. Spivak in Houston Texas. Not sure which facility.

Has anyone experienced any problems due to a fatty liver or elevated ALTs, liver enzymes? I want to make sure I am a good candidate.

Thanks!

Yes, I have a BMI of 36 and have 85 lbs to lose. Did you have any problems with insurance?