Does anyone know if insurance will pay for a sleeve if the band did not work. Would it help if I changed my insurance company?

I am gaining weight quickly and see no end in sight.

Edited November 4, 201510 yr by bettiann

I am having revision surgery next Tuesday - 11/10 - and it's covered by my insurance - Cigna. My band has a leak and hasn't worked in 2 years. During that time I beat myself up thinking that I was losing my mind because I was so hungry and could eat more than I knew I should.

My doctor had to write a letter to my insurance company and must have made one hell of an argument on my behalf. I was fully approved and scheduled within 2 weeks.

Hopefully your doctor can make a good case to your insurance company and get it covered for you.

Good luck and keep me posted.

@bettiann The surgeon and the person who processes insurance papers at the practice know how to get you covered. Remind them up front that you need the coverage so that their busy little minds don't wander slack off.

I haven't had revision, but have been told by some that it may take a couple of attempts. The closest I've come was having my band replaced four days after it was inserted. I had absolutely no involvement in filing the necessary, additional papers with the insurer, but, as far as I know, they consented right off. I say this because I've wondered if they could have told the surgeon just to remove the first band and send me home. Not only did they cover the second procedure, but five inpatient days and whatever else as well.