Hi,

I have only remotely considered PS since I assumed I couldn't get approved by ins and I don't have major overlapping skin. I've lost 78 pounds and although I have lots of saggy skin and some bulges I'd love to live without, I haven't had any problems with rashes, etc. until now.

I'm getting the rash that we all know well. It's only in my bellybutton. I know how to get rid of it and I have the proper cream, but I'm asking myself if I should see a doctor to start documenting for possible PS in the future.

Two questions, could this small rash qualify me for a TT? If so, can I see my GP for it? We have a derm shortage where I live and it takes MONTHS to get an appt. I'd hate to have to walk around with this painful itchy rash for that long just to show it to him!

Any suggestions? Words of wisdom? Life lessons?

You need to continuously see your doctor and have it documented to state that it is due to the excess skin. Your GP can see you and give you ointments for it.

Thanks for responding! I have an appointment with my GP this Friday and wouldn't you know, the dang rash is going away on its own! I deliberatly didn't treat it so I would have something to show him......go figure....

Hey, Suzanne, congratulations on surpassing your goal, YAY!!!!! I don't know whether to say I am sorry your rash went away or give condolences, LOL!!! My TT is not covered at all, so I have to break open the piggy bank and turn it in for a Wells Fargo Truck!!!!

Mimi

You can tell the doc about it and ask him to document it in your chart. I'm sure they know the rash will come and go. I have a dermatologist appt in a couple of weeks, I think I'll scratch a little before I go.....

Yes...rashes and recurrent infections are the best way to get approval. But you do need to go in and get scripts filled. The INS company will be billed for these visits and know about the issues taht way.

Be sure your PS is willing and experienced in going through the INS process too !

Best wishes,

John LoMonaco, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Plastic Surgery

Houston, Texas

www.DrLoMonaco.com

www.BodyLiftHouston.com

testing ticker

Thanks Mimi, I wish I could honestly say I surpassed my goal, but I actually changed it. I'm deadlocked at this weight and my doc convinced me to change my goal. I've been within a 3 pound range for almost a year now.

Dr. JLo, thanks for the imput. I'll check into it and hopefully find a good PS.

lbndoc, thanks for the tip. I thought about not drying it as well in hopes it will show back up, but nothing yet. ha ha

Suzanne, there is no harm or defeat in changing your goal. I have always said my real goal will be the wt where my calories in and exercise out meet and I stop losing. You are attractive and healthy at this wt!!

Mimi

Thanks Mimi, you're a sweetheart.

Doc wants to do an endoscopy now because I have unexplained heartburn. I don't want to do it as I finally have my band at perfect restriction. Dang....

Hi Suzanne, I don't think you usually come to the St. Mary's lap band support group meetings, but just in case you're interested, a plastic surgeon is scheduled to speak at the October meeting.

Kiz, when is that meeting? I work in DC, so going to Richmond on a worknight is a deal-breaker. Do you know who the PS is?

Sorry, Suzanne, they didn't mention the name of the doctor, just that he was a plastic surgeon. Also, unfortunately the meetings are on Mondays (2nd Mon of the month) at 7:00 - 8:30, so it doesn't sound doable for you.

I hope you figure out your heartburn issue, and that it's something easy to deal with. I'd be really bummed about getting an unfill now too. I know what you mean about finding that perfect level of restriction. Once you have it, you don't want to mess around with it.

Yeah, I don't even get to Fredericksburg until 6:00 most nights. I'd be hard pressed to even get there in time.

Thanks for the possitive thoughts on the endo.

Gosh, Suzanne, that sucks, but if they are careful measuring what they take out they should get it right putting it back. I am still trying to find my sweet spot and am sure the PA missed my port last Thursday because I hve no additional restriction and I felt a burning when she injected. Of course they never believe you and won't give me another adjustment for 6 weeks!!!!

Best wishes,

Mimi

Yeah, I'm worried though, that with the endo I may have some swelling which would of course effect my restriction and my perfect sweet spot (where I am now).

Oh well, only time will tell.