.

Edited February 2, 201511 yr by MomOf3InOC

I agree with above. Perhaps I'm cynical, but I generally assume that the surgeons will be glad to operate on any willing patient as long as insurance (or the patient) will pay for it. Of course with all tests and precautions to avoid any malpractice claims etc. as well. I think it's all about what insurance requires, but your surgeon should be able to partner with you on that and advise you on the best way to approach.

It seems to me like the surgeons want to get rid of the band so they are willing to do the conversion

Sorry, docs won't operate on anyone. Just not true.

I'd be surprised if your insurance will fund your sleeve at a BMI under 40.

At a BMI of 35, most insurance companies require 3 comorbidities. I'd say your magic words to try if you're a 35 BMI are: arthritis, stress incontinence, high blood pressure, diabetes, pre-diabetic condition.

Here's a complete list:

http://www.nationalbariatriclink.org/comorbidities-insurancequalification.html

First of all, anything is,possible...trust me. My story is very similar to yours although I really didn't have any issues with the band. My doc said that the band failed me, I did not fail the band! Lost about 100 lbs starting in 2007. It took many fills and tweeking to get me to my sweet spot. Found it and worked with it. In the summer my port started shifting so I went in for a port replacement and woke up with the entire band being removed due to erosion!!!! I was shocked, sad and feel like someone took the only thing that had ever worked for me in 30 years away just like that, snap!! I immediately began the revision proceed but with a BMI of 26, there was no way. I tried, I truly did to keep the weight off but at 50 lbs additional and 2 co mortalities I was approved for the sleeve. Had it done 1 week ago from tonight and it was the best thing ever. I have CIGNA and I had a tough time, but other people have had smooth sailing with CIGNA...I just can't figure them out. Make sure you find out if your ins will only cover 1 bariatric proceedure a lifetime. Sleeve is fantastic so far

I assume this is directed at me... As you've written your response - yes of course that's not true. And you certainly don't have to be "sorry" for saying so. Just for the record what I said had many more caveats than what you've said below (the tests to rule out safety concerns and malpractice concerns represent many ways in which docs will rule out surgery for any individual).

My point was that it's more about insurance and established practices than the doctor's personal feeling is about the individual patient. EDIT - and that surgeons are financially motivated to help patients get approved for surgery.

Sorry, docs won't operate on anyone. Just not true.

Edited January 17, 201511 yr by thesuse2000

.

Edited February 2, 201511 yr by MomOf3InOC