HappyMom

I also had this question. I start my pre-op diet on the 10th. Has anyone come across a non-sweet shake that they like? I really am not fond of sweet food....like chocolate and vanilla shakes. Is there some unflavored or savory powders that someone has tried and liked? Thanks!

I have found out there is nothing worse than having to wait when you have made your final decision about surgery. I too had to wait for the seminar. There is only one doctor in all of New Mexico that performs the surgery. The seminars fill up MONTHS in advance. Good luck to you....it is worth the wait. My wait is finally over and will be having surgery later this month.

Ooops...I also clicked the "No-Don't Tell Anyone" button. I have only discussed the surgery with my husband (kids are too little to understand). I am not sure if I will tell anyone else. I guess that I don't want the perceived pressure of people watching my weight loss, what I eat, and how I act afterward. I don't want to have to feel accountable to everyone that I told about the surgery. Maybe with time this will change, but right now I am keeping this decision between myself and husband.

I have Anthem BCBS and mine took about 3 working days for pre-approval (before the dr. visits were started)....and 6 working days for final approval (after all the required visits and paperwork was completed/submitted). I agree with the other posters....BCBS has some of the least stringent requirements for surgery. I just needed a dietitian and psych visit......no 6 months of monitored diet and exercise like most require. Good luck to you!

I also am going to be banded by Dr. Smith here in Albuquerque. He seems to be a nice and knowledgeable guy, who has also had the surgery a few years back. That is a big plus since he will know exactly what myself and others will be going through. I have a March surgery date....wish me luck!

I was just approved for surgery with a BMI of 39 along with two comorbidities.....high blood pressure and type II diabetes. I really don't think that you will be able to 'fake' having a comorbidity. I had to show documentation that I have been seeing a specialist and taking medication for BOTH conditions for the last year. Don't try it.........just my opinion.

Your success with the band is fantastic! I can't wait to join you:thumbup:

I have Anthem BC/BS of California and was just approved yesterday. I have a BMI of 39, but with high blood pressure and type II diabetes. The only requirements for me are a psych and dietician visit. I do not have to complete a 6 month diet monitoring, or any other monitoring/requirements. BC/BS will pay 100% after I have meet my yearly out-of-pocket deductible. I wish you good luck with your journey!

Hello, I am 5'9" and 268-lbs. I have technically a BMI of 39.6....not the 40 as required by my insurance. I do however have high blood pressure and type II diabetes (both developed during my last pregnancy in 2008). I found out yesterday that I was pre-approved with Anthem BlueCross. The only requirements are for me to complete a Psych Eval and a Diatician visit (which I will complete at the beginning of March). The waiting part of the insurance approval is torturous, especially if you have decided that band surgery is really what you want. I definitely know how you are feeling right now. I have a little clue for you.....I don't actually weigh 268....I was lucky enough to be weighed with clothes on. This included heavy winter boots, jeans, shirts, a large sweater, and a lot of misc stuff in my pockets to make me weigh heavier. The nurse taking my weight smiled and winked at me, but didn't say a thing. I have read on this forum that some people actually wore ankle weights! What a hoot! I definitely believe that you should work with your doctor and see what he/she can do for you. I know that there are others on this website that have Medicaid and were able to get approval. I really wish you the best of luck in your journey....whatever you decide! Melissa

Absolutely amazing! Congrats on your hard work and continued determination!:confused: