If I have a band-to-sleeve revision that I pay for out-of-pocket, would I have to go through all the same pre-op requirements I had for the band? Or do those not apply if you aren't using insurance? (For banding, I had to see a psychiatrist, take behavioral classes, get nutritional counseling, submit letters to my medical group, etc. which took about 3-4 months). I have my appointment in 2 weeks, but I would love to look forward to a quick turnaround in the whole process ????

When I looked into out of pocket they did not require anything, but the surgeon I ended up going to all patients had to do everything whether insurance or paying. But since your a revision I wouldn't think you would have to go thru it all again. Do you have a surgeon yet?

Thank you, Truckerchic. I do have a surgeon already, the same one who did my band (he really wanted to do a sleeve to begin with but I was to scared LOL). He said if he can do it all at once, insurance will pay for the removal and that will lower my cost significantly. I was still in "thinking about it" stage when I had my last appointment, so I didn't ask a lot of questions. Now I have to wait until my next appointment. Ideally, I'd love to have it done this summer so I can have an easier time recovering without having to deal with school-year activities for my kids.

For my band to sleeve revision the insurance company only made me go through the psychiatric visit again. Plus the normal pre-op EKG and blood work that pretty much everyone has to have for any kind of surgery.

The surgeon only made me to do the psychiatric appointment too.