FYI about insurance approval
Most insurance companies have their medical policies posted right on the website. I know for example BCBS of Iowa has their morbid obesity surgery policy available for anyone to view. Sometimes it helps to know what kind of documentation they are looking for, especially if you are new to this process. If you have another provider, just check their website and most of the time you can find what you need.
Here is the link for BCBS of IA if anyone is interested.
http://www.wellmark.com/e_business/provider/medical_policies /policies/obesity_surgery.htm