Denied for VSG... now what?

Well, I got an answer from Dr. S's office today. They denied me for VSG because I'm not 50 BMI (I was 48 at my first consult and have lost weight since then).

So, my only other choices are RNY or Lapband.  I originally wanted the RNY but then got convinced on the VSG because I have other malabsorptive-type medical issues. I grew to like the idea of a VSG. 

I'm really don't want the Lapband.

So, I'm thinking I'll go forward with asking for the RNY. 

I'm perplexed.

Lisa......
   I am so sorry to hear about your denial. But at least you have other options.......and it sounds as if you are looking into them. I had looked at all options available, and as you know I am having RNY on 6/26.
Will changing your surgery type put you back at the beginning, or will they just change the paperwork & resubmit?
Good luck!

God, I hope it doesn't put me back to the beginning! I think they just need to resubmitt with the different procedure type. 

oh Lisa I'm so sorry you must be so disappointed...

Setbacks can be frustrating but don't give up. Have you considered a different surgeon? If you qualify for rny , you should qualify for the vsg.  I know you don't want to start over but it is important to have the surgery of your choice. Make sure you explore all your options.
Good luck - Anna

Did the Dr deny you or did you insurance?  This concerns my because I am 37BMI but have Diabetes.  I am going to a support group for Dr Vanguri Sunday, I have to ask some questions. I wonder if  this is Dr S changing his procedures, (like him not doing DS in one procedure)

Tom

Oh, Lisa, I'm so sorry!!  I know it's easy for me to say, but try not to let this get you TOO down.

Like others have suggested, why don't you check with another surgeon?  Unless you have your heart set on Dr. S?

Also, I'm curious as to why you don't want the lapband?  As a RNY-r, I'm intrigued by the "renewed honeymoon" period that you get with each fill.  Once your "weight loss window" closes with RNY, you don't get that chance.  You can still lose weight with RNY, but take my word for it, it's much harder.

Did Dr. S. recommend a specific type of surgery for you?  IMHO, it's important to listen to them as far as what they think would work best for you - they ARE the experts!

Hang in there, honey!
Tia

Oh Lisa, I am so sorry that you were denied. The Dr. told you that you were denied only for your BMI? Maybe you should just go and have a consultation with another Bariatric surgeon. I've seen you a lot on the boards, you don't seem like a girl that is going to take no for an answer! Good Luck with your journey, fight the fight! Leslie:)

Her surgeon didn't deny her - her insurance did - correct?  VSG is a newer procedure and some insurances aren't readliy approving sleeves yet.  So, regardless of the surgeon she was denied.  I would  talk to your surgeon and see if your malabsorptive issues would not be affected by RNY if what is really the route you want to take.  Whatever route you take - you don't have to start all over.  Also , maybe think about resubmitting and have a doctor write a note about why RNY would not be an option due to your malab. issues.
 

My surgeon is the one who initially recommended the sleeve. I didn't know anything about it before I went in for my consultation. I had my endo write a letter of why the sleeve would be better for me with my conditions.  I'm beginning to wonder if my ins. even read any of it or if they just looked at BMI first and denied off of that.  I think I'm going to call them Monday and see if I can talk to the case worker. It's worth a try.