I had my plastic surgery consult...

Hello my fellow marchers.... I had my first consult today with the plastic surgeon. I was approved by my insurance company for the TT & breast work. When I met with him today I was so embarassed because I had to take off all of my clothes and I have never taken my clothes off for anybody. I had to keep in mind that he is a professional and there were no bad intentions. He was wonderful and made me feel very comfortable. My consult today with him was going to be about just the TT & breast so I thought, but it turned out that he is suggesting a whole body lift and that's exactly what I wanted!!! I was so excited to hear him say that he would submit a letter of medical necessity to the insurance company of why the whole body. He explained to me how the skin is connected throughout the body and at this point working on my tummy and breast would not make things look better but a little ununiform therefore suggesting a whole body lift. I have to admit when I saw the pictures he took of me...I do need the work!!! He did state not everybody needs the same work...some people just need some stuff done and others..well like me, need everything done. I have a tentative day for surgery and that's 4/25/05. That day will only be for the TT because he works in stages. He works from the bottom up. I am happy and excited but also very nervous about the pain, but with my family's support and of course you guys...I'll be okay!!!!! Edna 255/139/???

Edna, congratulations on getting your work approved! I am very concerned as the PS I have been referred to, his office staff keep singing the blues, like "It will take 4-6 weeks to get approval," and "The work is being turned down a lot by insurance companies," and in terms of my insurance (BC/BS Anthem), "They just aren't approving anything these days." Maybe I'm going to the wrong surgeon! But I wanted my regular surgeon, Dr. Aranow, to do my hernia repair and this is the PS he works with. Hmmmmm, I may have to rethink this. Anyway, I'm very excited for you and can't wait to hear of your recovery! Take care, Reenie

Hi Reenie...you always reply to my posts...thank you for that!!!! From my understanding BCBS Anthem is underwritten in New York - therefore they would have to follow whatever mandate they have there for gastric bypass patients including follow up revision of excess skin. Please look into it - don't give up!!!!!! Soon I will be posting my pictures so that you can see what I look like...I am the "bomb" now - ha-ha-ha...just kidding...I feel like the bomb - isn't that the new "in" word - I don't know. I feel great, but my body needs a lot of work - it's awful....yuck!!! Edna 255/139/???

You are so brave! In my head, I know that you are right-- go big or stay home! But it is scary. Congratulations on the approval and thanks for the example of seizing the opportunity! All the best-- hope you sail through easily!