men and surgery?

Is it as hard for men to get wls done ? It seems like a lot of women have trouble getting insurance and doctors to take this serious. I was wondering if men have the same problems and if they have to have all the test and pre-diets as some of us women have to go threw?

Hi Marie. It wasn't real hard for me but I did have to go through all the tests. My doc sent in all the stuff and I was good to go after the tests were completed. My WLS was in 2003 and I have heard that it is getting harder all the time.

Hi Marie! It was hard for me to get my approval.It took me 3 years 3 different Ins companys and 5 appeals before I was approved.So everyone keep fighting there is hope don't give up!!!! Taco 459/258/220

Dang! 3 yrs...W@W!!!...I do know there are fewer men then women having this procedure done....But, far as I have seen *some*men seems to have less problem getting it then some women......Don't know why? I, think mine is going pretty smoothly so far....unless I stumble along the way and then get a set back...I don't need this to happened but in case: I will hang in there....be well worth it....

I had no problem getting approved but then, I had a BMI of 50.1 and many of the co-morbidities -- Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesteral and triglicerides, obstructive sleep apnea, joint and muscle pain, asthma and gastric reflux. I was taking enough prescription drugs that the surgery would have less then 3 year pay-back period when I got off them post-op. I had a seven year history with my current PCP trying multiple diets and drugs. I had a detailed and documented weight history back 30 years with significant weight losses and regains. I have a good medical plan (BCBS HMO of Illinois, plan 36) thru my employer. I had my surgery three months after requesting it. I put my success here down to having so many co-morbidities, having a long term relationship with a caring PCP, being anal about keeping records and working for a company with good medical. It has nothing to do with being a man. Have a great day. Rich

Hi Marie, It took me about a year to get approved for surgery. I had to go through all the tests that most people had to go through plus counseling and lots of pre-op education classes. Best wishes Don

hey Don!! Long time no see Your looking good sweetie Debby

Hi Marie, I had no problem getting approved, I did have to go through all the tests but between the VA and Social Security it didn't take but about three months from start to finish.

Rich,darling I didnt say it was because of being a man. I said: "But, far as I have seen *some*men seems to have less problem getting it then some women".... and I know some insurance varies from one to another....But, just stating also there are more women doing this procedure then men... *kiss*

Cams, my apology if I was short or sounded angry. I need to watch my replies because I seem to have become very abrupt and abrasive. Have a great day. Rich