all this talk...

about the TT has got me wondering now. what are the chances of insurances paying for them? i didnt think my insurance would pay for the surgery but they did. i'm not ready for the TT yet but if insurance doesn't pay, does anyone know about how much it is? also exactly what areas does it work on? just the tummy?

Tara, here is all I know right now....at our last support meeting the nurse there told us that your best bet for getting the TT paid for is documentation; she said if you get a rash under the apron of skin to be sure and take pictures of it for the Dr to send to the insurance company. If you have medical problems (chronic pain) from the "waddling" skin to see your PCP to have it noted in your records, and journal how you are feeling physically daily in regards to movement etc with the excess skin. They will most likely not pay for cosmetic repair, just medically nessecary repair, things that slow down your value of life or limit your mobility, or are a hygeine issue. So for some that will include thighs, hips, buttocks, etc. as well as the TT. There are different types of TT, some include full lifting of the tummy, hips, and buttocks. some are just the tummy. Your Dr would have to determine what will be best for you and give the best results. I dont anticipate having to have anything done for at least another 6 months, I want to be sure I will get the most benefit out of having it done, although with this fallen bladder thing maybe I wont be able to wait that long. I am thankful I have good trustworthy Doctors. Hope this helps, take care, Janelle

Hey Tara; I called my insurance company and spoke with a customer service representative there that told me they would cover my tummy tuck and breast lift only because I underwent the gastric bypass procedure and they are aware of all the horrible skin left over after the great weight loss. I am under an HMO policy which means that everything needs to be approved by my doctor or the medical group my doctor belongs to. I actually had a follow up consult with my doctor at around 3-4 months out and she suggested to me a breast lift. I was in awe when she said it so we talked about and she agreed that I did need it so all I am waiting for is to get to my goal weight!!!! Talk to your doctor about keeping documentation on you weight loss and all the side effects from it and try to submit it.