Hello. My first doctor visit and education class is next week. I expect my gastric bypass surgery to be six months from now. I did a good amount of research before making my decision, and I am eager to start my journey. I know I will have questions answered next week, but am eager for answers now. My biggest fear is my BMI is close to being too low, however, I have many weight related health issue (D2, HBP, and High cholesterol). I am hoping to be able to diet a bit before surgery. Anyone in a similar situation?

Many insurance plans are similar. This is the language in my plan.

•Surgical treatment of obesity (bariatric surgery) is covered only if:

- eligible enrollee is 18 of age or over

- clinical records support a body mass index of 40 or greater (or 35-40 when there is at least one co-morbidity related to obesity). Applicable co-morbid conditions include the following:

•Type II diabetes mellitus (by American Diabetes Association diagnostic criteria).

•Refractory hypertension (defined as blood pressure of 140 mmHg systolic and or 90 mmHg diastolic) despite medical treatment with maximal dose of three antihypertensive medications.

•Refractory hyperlipidemia (acceptable levels of lipids unachievable with diet and maximum doses of lipid lowering medications).

•Obesity–induced cardiomyopathy.

•Clinically significant obstructive sleep apnea.

•Severe arthopathy of the spine and or weight bearing joints (when obesity prohibits appropriate surgical management of joint dysfunction treatable but for obesity.

- Documentation of failure to lower the body mass index within the last 12 months through a medically supervised program of diet and exercise of at least 6 months duration.

That looks very much like what mine says, thank you. I will, of course, discuss with my Dr. next week. I would love to shed a few pounds because I am so uncomfortable.

Hi KCB

I have very similar requirements from my insurance; I do have to go through the medically supervised weight-loss as well. I heard that you will do better with the surgery if you lose a good amount of weight prior to the surgery. I actually looked up to see what my weight would be for the BMI to be acceptable for surgery. I could lose like 40 more pounds before I get to the BMI that would require co-morbidities. I do have some comorbidities so I don't think I will have an issue. The way I look at it is I am going to have the mindset to lose as much as I can before the surgery. If I happen to lose more weight than I expect....well I will deal with that when it happens. Good luck....I will keep in touch as I am also just under 6 months out from the DS surgery.

Great! Looking forward to supporting each other!

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