cocojohn

First , Sorry if this as been asked. I couldn't find any answers regarding this. My insurance company (BCBS of IA) states that Bariatric Surgery is not a covered procedure. It reads "Bariatric and morbid obesity-related surgery, including but not limited to panniculectomy or other body contouring procedures, is excluded". But, she did say something about Physician sending in MR for approval. Has anyone had this answer, but was still approved for their surgery? What criteria is needed to be approved? I have registered for a seminar with a surgery team, not until the end of April. But a bit nervous, and don't want to waste time if the surgery won't be approved at the end. Also how long does it generally take to be approved? and what all has to be done before surgery can be done. And finally, 20 years ago, I did go through the Gastric Banding. Can the Gastric Sleeve be done since that had been done? Thanks for any answers. Cocojohn