USA - Mexico or other WLS procedure

Like Gina, I was a light-weight, but had insulin dependent diabetes.  The DS was a no-brainer for me.  With out the DS, I'm sure I would have gained weight back.  I'm 6 yrs out and maintaining my 65lb weight loss from my DS and 85 overall.  I did gain about 12 a couple of years ago, but having my upper body lift, the pounds came back off.  I never made it to a normal BMI.  My DS stopped.  I'm fine I look and feel normal.  I'll be 62 next month.

Why will your insurance not cover the DS? Did a representative tell you that or have you read the evidence of coverage? If not call your insurance and request a copy and read it thoroughly.  If there is a way to get insurance to cover it I would try.  I think it is great that you know the DS is what you want and willing to pay for it, but you pay for insurance for a reason and if there is a way to get it covered why not. I would even consider appealing that they are telling you which surgery you can have.

It is Cigna - I spoke with a representative and she showed me in the coverage how all the other wls procedures are covered at my bmi (36) but DS has to be 50+. I never thought about appealing. Thanks for the idea!

Do you have any comorbidities? Sleep apnea, type II diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol I know there are others.  Sometimes if you have a lower BMI but some of those that will also help you qualify.