Mesquite, TX Newbie Here

Hi to all. I was once a member of OH a while back. Just had my gallbladder removed 2 wks ago due to gallstones. During my check-up my Dr. mentioned that I may want to start back looking into WLS again as I am 4'10 1/2 at 230 lbs. I currently work FT and my job offers insurance thru Aetna. The nurse at the physicians ofc called and did verify that the insurance plan I have does cover WLS with some stipulations. The Dr's ofc is waiting on me to schedule and appt with them to get this ball rolling but I wanted to read more first and get some updated info on the VSG and there was no doubt b4 or now that this would be my surgery of choice...Looking for good and bad advice as well as new friends..THANKS!!

Hi! 

I have Aetna and when I had my surgery my only options were bypass or band.  My surgeon was going back into talks with them about covering the sleeve in Feb. of this year, so I would check with your plan and specifically ask about coverage for the VSG.  I may need a revision, but won't consider anything other than VSG.  Good luck!

Toni

I have Aetna! The stipulations included a diet and weight history 3 months Dr supervided diet, visits w/nutritionist ( this is a very specific schedule so make sure it is done right!), specific minimum BMI, pshycological profile etc...
Good luck and welcome back to OH!!

Meggie

May I recommend Dr Stewart in Denton?

I have Aetna as well. Mine was covered for RNY and I had my approval within 2 weeks of the submission from my Dr. I did have to do the 3 month history as Meggie described above. Make sure you have all your ducks in a row before they submit. Not just the Dr but YOU as well =) GOOD LUCK!

 Welcome back to OH and congrats on the insurance.   I had Aetna when I had my surgery over 4 yrs ago.   I had RNY but the sleeve ( VGS ) is a awesome surgery....but Hon I really don't think that Aetna is covering it yet...if so GO for it !!!!  Otherwise if you just have a choice with lapband or RNY I would chose RNY.    Those fills get expensive ( I have heard ) and with RNY you will have your weight off quickly.   Also if you want a suggestion on a surgeon Dr. David D Kim was mine.   He does surgery at lots of places and Dallas area happens to be one of them.    You can visit his website at drdkim.org.    He also has awesome support group meetings !!!  Good luck to you and don't be a stranger anymore !!!!


Hugs and blessings ~~~ Vivian

Thanks to all for the reply! I am not sure what the nurse at the surgeons office called and asked when she called to verify insurance. She may have jst asked of wls was covered. I am hoping that the VSG is covered as that is the only surgery that I am interested in. I guess once I select a Dr. then I will know for sure. I love this website cause everyone is sooo friendly!!

I will be three weeks post op on Monday and no regrets! There is just no reason to live life uncomfortable or unhealthy in your own skin. I was self pay and every cent was worth it.  Just two and a half weeks out people are noticing my weight loss and I'm feeling healthier already.  I hope whatever decision you make is the best for you! Good luck, doll :)

Welcome back to the TMB.  I do not know anything about VSG, but I do know that Aetna is good insurance.  Good luck... I hope that they cover it.

-Kim T