I was self pay for band in 2001 and did well with weight loss at the beginning. Had some fills and unfills around 2009 and after that never felt right. Was too tight and did not eat well. Had imaging studies in 2011that showed esophagitis, gastritis, and a hiatal hernia. I had terrible shoulder pain and heartburn almost daily. Finally had the band emptied in 2013 but still have symptoms.

Had a surgeon send in a letter in 2011 but was denied. I never got a copy of the denial. I want to try again but I have not been at a 35 bmi for two years. Anyone approved due to medical necessity for similar circumstances?

Also my preferred surgeon is not at a center of excellence and I really want him to do my surgery. I have thought about self pay but am scared that if I develop complications since I have had band for 14 years that insurance will not cover the complications.

Thank you for your thoughts!

I have BCBS Fep and was approved in 4 days for my revison. My bmi was only up to 30. I had gained about 40 pounds from failed band. I had slip and dialated esophagus

That's good to hear! I hope mine goes just as quick should be submitted 1st week in Sept. I have FEPBLUE BASIC

@@DianeSav did you do the supervised diet?

I had only 3 months of doc appts to do, and psych eval. They had all my records from my lapband and barium swallows to prove I had major problems with my esophagus. I absolutly had to have band out. I didnt have to do supervised diet so Im thinking I had that my records must have showed I really was in danger with the band. My esophagus was dialated for a few years and I kept asking to be checked in 6 months because I was afraid to get my band out. I never thought they would approve me.

@@DianeSav Thanks so much. If you don't mind one more question... What did the three months of doctor visit entail? I guess I am just confused because I don't have three months of supervised diet. My surgeon's office has submitted my packet. I hope they included the barium studies I provided, my letter explaining my symptoms and the psych eval.

VDLT I just had to show up to appointment and not gain any weight. My PA pretty much just chatted with me. They figured Ive been through all this with the band I didnt need anything, which I would have liked. You do need to do the psych eval again. After the 3 months appointments then they submit to BCBS. I have basic and I was so shocked they approved me.

But that was my experience with my doc.

@@DianeSav thanks so much. Mine has been submitted already. I also have basic. We shall see!

good luck to you!!

I just got off the phone with insurance and I have been approved! I am excited and terrified!

Congrats to you! BCBS FEP rocks!

Congrats!!! I have BCBS fed and I'm waiting for approval! I hope I get approved too!

@@brayd_mommy09 Any word on insurance?

Not yet! Hopefully soon!!!

I was officially approved today for my revision!!! My surgery date is September 17th! I'm so excited'

Yay brayd! So happy for you! Mine is the 23rd. Wanna be my buddy?! LoL

Why sure! Lol! Mine may change depending on arrangements for my child. So mine is scheduled the 17th right now but may change for the 24th!