considering lapband surgery

[mamamckinzie 92]

Hi Everyone!

I am almost 50 years old and I am considering LapBand. I went and had a consultation and they are check my insurance. My BMI is 31 so my chances are low. I have fought my weight for most of my adult life and part of my childhood. I did well from 7th grade to 12th grade. Not skinny but healthy. I did well in my late 20's but then in my 30's it has been a steady climb. I have tried all kinds of diets and I am looking for a better tool than counting points or drinking shakes for over a year etc etc. I weigh 198 pounds and I should weigh around 140lbs. What has your overall experience been with the band? Glad you did it? Would you do it again?

[Rachel412 116]

My experience is good and I'm glad I have it, but I think you're going to have a very hard time getting approved for surgery with such a low BMI.

[mamamckinzie 92]

I know..I do have high blood pressure and a family history of diabetes & stroke and heart issues so they were going to try that approach

My experience is good and I'm glad I have it, but I think you're going to have a very hard time getting approved for surgery with such a low BMI.

[broomt 1]

FDA changed the guidlines to BMI 30 and above. Just know that you will be self pay, I don't think any insurance will pay for it. I have a BMI of 31 and I am scheduled for surgery June 30

[Cocoabean 430]

I've not heard of anyone in the US getting insurance to cover at less than a BMI of 35. Your policy should state what it requires, or give them a call.

I'd do it again in a heartbeat. With FDA approval down to a BMI of 30 now, insurance companies MIGHT follow suit. But it seems they are not wanting to cover people now who clearly meet their policies, so I don't know.

Keep us posted! I wish you all the best.

Edited May 27, 2011 by Cocoabean

[Spartan 4]

I would agree with CocoaBean.....

Just because the FDA lowered the BMI threshhold does NOT mean that the insurances companies will follow. And, it is unlikely they will, because the overall success rate of the Lap band is generally quite low, and the complication rate is rising......the Lap band is not the "darling" of the WLS industry that it was a few years ago.

S.

[lv2h8me 2]

Hi, My BMI is 33 and My insurance is covering it. I have Tricare Prime. But you have to have health issues.