I have to admit, I've been lurking these forums for a while as I worked to complete my pre-op dieting phase and go through the lengthy and stress inducing insurance approval. I had all the paperwork requested but gained 2 pounds during the dieting phase and was nervous I wouldnt get approved. That paired with the weeks of waiting, the request for an additional PCP letter and Aetna not properly reviewing the back-up my insurance coordinator gave them just made me think my surgery would ever come to frutiion. I thought it was a bad omen to post before I got approved so I lurked (and read every insurance post on this site).

Today my surgical coordinator called to let me know the Aetna nurse is approving my surgery and the paperwork will be processed tomorrow.

I feel like a HUGE weigh has been lifted. I am slated for a July 31 sleeve and am super nervous and excited all at once! It's been quite a journey thus far -- from starting with the firm mindset of getting a band to then changing my mind to a sleeve. All the doctor visitis and running around for paper work- I cant believe this phase is complete.

My main worry now is finding a Protein shake I like and getting all my Vitamins before I leave for Italy for 2 weeks. As soon as I get back I start the liquid diet. I have also opted not to tell anyone beyond 3 people about my surgery. I am wondering the type of reliance I will need on another person after the surgery. I was thinking that I likely need someone home with me for three days -- any thoughts on this? I know everyone is different but I know I cant do it alone and am wodering if anyone has advice based on experience.

Thank you. I am happy to be no longer lurking!

Congrats on your approval. I agree with you, that once you get the approval it feels like a weight is lifted off of your shoulders. Go and enjoy Italy. I wish I could help you with your question, but I haven't had my surgery yet. I was approved just yesterday and have a date of July 8th. My husband will be home with me the day I get home from the hospital and then he will go to work the next 2 days. He only works 4 miles from our house, so if I need him he is close by.

Honestly, you may need someone to come and visit with you. I slept for a good part of the time but got bored very easily. I also am under a lift ban of nothing heavier then 10 lbs until a month after my surgery date (no pulling/pushing/lifting) so I need a little help cleaning the house and you may be the same way.

Everyone is so different and it depends on so many things. I live alone and I also have a pretty high level of pain tolerance, so I was fine all by myself when I got home. It's always nice though to have someone there if you can. Congratulations on your approval and best wishes!