Cosmetic Reconstruction Approved By BCBS

After months of pulling teeth, numerous letters written, documenting each and every little body and/or medical issue, 1st level appeal, then 2nd appeal, what seems like thousands of dr. visits, and many copays spent on exams, prescriptions, and what not...  BCBS has finally agreed that after losing 253 lbs, I am deserving of  having my abdominal area reconstructed.  They are paying for the panniculectomy and I am tossing in a little extra to have the abdominal wall tightened and some upper chest work done.  While they have not caved yet on the upper chest work (even though they claim to pay for gynecomastia for men who have loss excessive weight), I will pay be paying out of pocket for this and filing a claim and most likely multiple appeals in order to get some level of reimbursement.  I thought about waiting for approval on the chest work but for many reasons, it made sense to go ahead and have it done with the abdominal work.  1 surgery vs 2, they may deny me in the end anyway, my insurance is changing come Jan 1 and has higher co insurance levels, plus after having the abdominal work done, I may be too chicken to opt for more plastic work in the future. 

So on December 11, I will be going in to Wakemed Raleigh NC for a 6-8 hour procedure to rebuild my Dolly Parton / Jabba the Hutt figure into something that remotely resembles a male human being.  All kidding aside, I am truly greatful for BCBS, they gave me WLS and they are now giving me the cosmetic procedure.  They have given me my life back.  So on the Christmas card list this year, my WLS surgeon, my plastics surgeon, and BCBS all get top billing. 

This is a risky procedure (as was the WLS) so I am praying all goes well.  I think the benefits are worth the risk.  I would ask that you all please think good thoughts for me.  Hopefully I will come through with no complications and complete my transformation into the new and healthy me.  My plastics guy tells me I will be below 200 lbs no doubt within 4-6 weeks post surgery.  Never would have thought I would hear those words in my lifetime. 

Well, just wanted to share a little of my good news with you all and to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays...

Dalton

Dearest Dalton,

Please know that Ben and I will be keeping you close in thought and prayer as you undergo this part of your journey. Be sure that Rose has our numbers in case she needs ANYTHING at all. Did the good Dr. have any idea how long he expects you to be enjoying the hospitality of WakeMed? 

Wishing a safe and uncomplicated surgery, followed by a gentle and smooth recovery. 

Fondly,

Dr. Schwarz seemed to think 2-4 days.  Best case, release on Sunday but more likely to be Monday 12/14.  It should be a pleasant stay.  He's got me lined up with all the right stuff, Vicodin, Morphine, Fennergran, and Versed.  All my favorite narcotics.  :-)  So, I should have a very reeeeelllllllaaaaaaaxxxxxxxedddddd visit at the Wakemed spa.

((((((((((((((Dalton))))))))))))))))))))
I am so happy for you. OMG how exciting to be able to have this done.
You know I will be lighting candles for you on your day and sending prayers and good throughts.
BTW I finally had a turducken LOL cajan flavor too it was pretty darn good.
                                                           Annie

Thank you both, I couldn't have gotten this far without great friends like you to inspire me.  You guys rock!!

Dalton.... Stan & I are so happy for you.  Know that you will certainly be in our thoughts and in our prayer on December 11, for your surgery, and the days that follow for a quick and easy recovery. 

Dalton,

I am so very Happy for you.  And just a little bit envious too.  You will be in my thoughts and prayers until I hear you are out of surgery and doing well.  Please keep us posted.


Best Wishes,
Carrie

Dalton,

What time is your surgery supposed to start? Will Rose be posting how you are doing or do you have an 'angel' that will be doing it for you? I know that everyone will want to know how you are doing.  If you don't have an angel and need someone to post your information, please let me know. I'd be glad to do it. Just have Rose call me and let me know how you are doing. Let me know if you need my phone numbers... whether you need an angel or not. 

Hugs,

 

Hey Dalton,

This was great to hear about the other day at the support group but even greater to hear the details.  

We'll be thinking about you and praying for you next week.   

Syd

That is wonderful.  I will keep you in my thoughts. 

Kelly