Big decision -- please help.

[Coco's Mum 1]

I hope I dont sound too negative, but if you dont have the motivation , comittment, and determination to make this happen with a bit of a delay (and save some money you might use later for plastic surgery or a well-deserved post-weight loss vacation) you are not likely to succeed with the lapband.The lap band is not for an instant gratification type of person, it is a lifelong change in everything you do...I self payed because the only way I could get covered was to GAIN 20 pounds which I could not do but I could afford it. The challenge of all the BS involved with insurance is just part of the road and in a way its like a test of your comittment...good luck!

Depending on your insurance (and Dr. G's schedule) is how long you will have to wait. I saw Dr. G, took the first available appt for every test and it still took over four months for approval. Until you know what your insurance requires (how many tests, etc) you won't know how long the wait will be. To me, a few months versus the rest of your life is worth it ....

[SkinnyInside=) 5]

I am scheduled for surgery 7/14/11. It will be self pay. However, I just found out I have high cholesterol so my insurance MAY pay for it. Unfortunately, if I go the insurance route, I would need to fill out tons of paperwork and wait at least 6 months before having surgery. Do I put everything on hold and wait to see if insurance will cover it or do I go forward with my plan and have surgery 7/14/11? My cost is going to be $8500. I'm using my IRA money to pay for it.

Wow !! What a tough descion !! It is alot of money .. but if I had it .. I think i would go ahead and pay for it ! Hell lets get this ball rolling !! Lol

[highland 168]

I am scheduled for surgery 7/14/11. It will be self pay. However, I just found out I have high cholesterol so my insurance MAY pay for it. Unfortunately, if I go the insurance route, I would need to fill out tons of paperwork and wait at least 6 months before having surgery. Do I put everything on hold and wait to see if insurance will cover it or do I go forward with my plan and have surgery 7/14/11? My cost is going to be $8500. I'm using my IRA money to pay for it.

For what it's worrh......DO IT NOW!!!!!! I went the insurance route 5 years ago. I spent my entire summer doing a laundry list of pre op tests. My BMI was 38, highcholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetic. After 5 long months I was denied because weight loss surgery was not a covered item on my policy. No matter what your isssues were! So 5 years latter, 53 years old - I paid my 14,100.00 and was scheduled within the month of my consultation! I had my surgery two days ago and I am thrilled its done and my journey has finally begun. I only wish I had done this 5 years ago!