Just starting my journey, but already having setbacks

I too have lupus and have decided to seriously look into WLS.  I spoke to someone at The Kane Center here in IL and was told that LapBand was totally out due to me having lupus.  That being said my lupus is SO MILD it has only showed up in blood tests 3-4 times out of about 20 blood tests over the last 6 years.  I'm not on any medications for it and I feel fine except for the flares that are greatly diminishing in frequency.  I have no other health issues.  Here's the problem... I really wanted to have the LapBand b/c it's less invasive and is used for people who don't have an extrodinary amount of weight to lose - or so I hear.  However, since that is apparently not an option, I decided to look into GB.  I've now been told that I don't quite qualify for GB because I'm not overweight ENOUGH!  How frustrating!!!  If it wasn't for this lupus diagnosis 6 years ago, the LapBad wouldn't be an issue.  I wonder if there are any other options.   Thanks!

You might check with another surgeon.  From what I"m reading on these boards, there are tons of people who got banded after having a diagnosis.

Have you checked into the possibility of having a VSG? Go check out the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy forum.  I've had lupus for several years .... diagnosed for 16, but had symptoms much earlier .... and the surgeons I see wouldn't even consider LapBanding someone with an autoimmune disease. Personally, I wouldn't risk it. So many medications I have to take are entirely incompatible with LapBanding, RNY GB, or DS. The VSG is OK for medications that folks that need to take steroids, NSAIDS, and other disease modifying drugs. Good Luck with your research and finding the right option for your weight loss and regaining of maximum health.  Shelly

I have lupus and I take plaquinel 2 times a day. I was banded on 10-10-08 and I have had no problems at all. I will be going for a Floroscope on 2-2-09 to make sure everything looks good.

if you don't mind me asking, what type of insurance do you have?  I talked to my Dr. and he gave me a referral to both a rhumey and a bariatric sugeon.  He said that I had a 1% chance of getting approved by my insurance.  I left the office feeling defeated.  Then later that day I went to my derma who said my test results were positive for ANA which last year was neg.  Since it's been affecting other parts than my skin we are 1 symptom away from SLE. 

My current BMI is a 37.1, not enough for my insurance to approve.  I'm SO fustrated b/c I know that WLS can help me on so many levels.  Does anyone else have TRICARE with similar issues?

I have insurance but it does not cover WLS surgery I paid for it myself. I went to Mexico and it cost me $5500.00 plus my plane ticket. I feel great and have lost 36lbs since October. I live in Oregon and have found a great fill doctor (Dr. Kelly Fitzpatrick cost for fill is $170.00) and a regular Biatriac doctor in case of any serious problems Dr. Deveney office visit is $250.00 & fill w/Floro is $250.00. If you really want it bad enough you just have to do your research and take the chance. Thats what I did and I do not regret it. You really have to be committed to a life style change eating, exercise, & a must is a support group. If you would like the information of where I went you can e-mail me at [email protected]