I posted thisin the general section, but have gotten no replies so far, so I thought I would post it here...

I have a question about the 6 month medically supervised diet. I just went to my PCP this week and he is supportive of my decision to get the lap band, so I am beginning the 6 month diet. I really would like to lose some weight before the surgery and I am motivated to try and stick to a diet. I am 5'2 and weigh 277, so I have room to lose quite a bit and still be over the required BMI. My question is--say I lose 40 pounds. Will my insurance company deny me because I have proven that I CAN lose weight? Of course, I can lose weight, but keeping it off is a whole other problem!

Maybe people are not answering because they don`t know. I know i don`t. I would be afraid they might. I hope someone who knows answers your post. I just wanted to let you know we are here , just do not always have an answer. Donna

kkarryall - I have posted the exact same question in a few different places also. I think donholl1 is correct, no one really knows the answer.

Insurance companies are all so different in how they look at this stuff. Mine clearly says that they look at my ability to follow a diet as proof that I will be able to adjust to life after the surgery. In fact it states "the appropriateness of obesity surgery in noncompliant patients should be questioned." So, it sounds like I better follow a diet and lose weight.

Like you, I am worried about my BMI number going too low, then having them disqualify me on that basis. I just had to read and re-read the info. for qualifying my insurance company sent to me, and make the best decision for me under those guidelines. This is not easy, I know. Good luck and keep us posted.

Thank you guys for posting! I really do want to lose weight because I am going on a trip in April and I'd like to lose a few pounds beofre that. I would love to hear from anyone who was approved by their insurance company and who lost 30+ pounds prior to being approved. Let me know....

Thanks and I will keep you posted!

AMY