Doctor Recommendation?
Hi everyone! I'm delighted to join this site and this is my first post. I'm about to set sail on a life altering adventure! I have decided, after being advised by my primary physician, to have weight loss surgery. I'm hoping this surgery will benefit me in many ways! I'm enthusiastic but also anxiously worried about the long road ahead of me. I had my introductory consultation with a local bariatric surgeon this month. My height is 5'4 1/2" and my weight is 220. My bmi is 37. I'm partial to the sleeve surgery after doing a lot of research on all my options. Unfortunately I was told that there was no way my insurance would cover me because my bmi is below 40 and I dont have sleep apnea or diabetes. This particular office wouldn't even try to turn my information into my insurance which is bcbs. I was heartbroken. I carry all my weight in my stomach and chest. I look 9 months pregnant. My back and shoulders ache constantly and I have joint pain. I have developed social anxiety and depression due to my weight. My primary physician wanted me to get this surgery before I develop diabetes or sleep apnea. He wants to fix this issue before it becomes a problem. For 15 years now I have lost and gained and lost and gained. I need this tool to help me. I want to feel healthy and free. Now I'm wondering if I should go to Mexico. The thought of that scares me though because what if I need a bariatric dr to look after me when I get back if something goes wrong? Will I be turned away for going to Mexico? For now I'm trying to find a good Dr with a lot of experience here in NC that would allow me to self pay. I really can't spend more than $15,000 at this time though. Can anyone please give me advice on how to find a GREAT dr here in NC? I cant put into words what this surgery would mean to me and how much I want to be a success story! Thank you for any input!! :)
