Can't combine surgeries

I saw the PS today.  He IS willing to submit the paperwork to see if insurance will approve the panniculectomy 9aya!  finalyl SOMEONE who will do that!), but I will have to have that procedure (if approved) done separately from the hernia repair  -- partly because we are not including an abdominoplasty (TT) in the mix and partly because I have some very large distended veins in the area that he will need to cut along (and therefore the surgery may run significantly longer than usual and he does not want to increase the time under anesthetic). So, hopefully in a couple of weeks I will know if the insurance will approve the panni removal and my PCP will give the thumbs up to the PS regarding the vein concerns.  In the meantime I will go ahead and have Dr Rita schedule the hernia repair for the end of May (just before my job ends and I lose my short-term disability). I was really hoping to avoid two rounds of anesthesia and two recovery periods, but I understand why that isn't possible without delaying boht procedures and ME paying for the TT part (which I definitely cannot do).  Oh, well, at least it takes the pressure off of getting an approval or denial for the panni removal right away. Lora

Just wanted to wish you well on the plastics part of this journey.  I am having a hernia repair and looked into a TT. My insurance would cover it 100%. but unfortunately my surgeon said it was a no go on the TT. I have a history of blood clots and he said I should not risk such an invasive operation as a pannilectomy and just do the hernia. :(  That is ok though, although, I would love to have this stomach removed...too many rashes and gets in my way of exercising. I will spluge and get the "Lipo in a box" I have seen advertised! LOL Good luck to you, Michelle

I'm not sure why the surgeon would say the panni removal is so invasive as to be a concern regarding blood clots.  I, too, have a history of clots, and the PS wasn't concerned about it at all except because of the veins he needs to work "around".  A panni removal is FAR less invasive than a gastric bypass or open hernia repair (but I guess would be less invasive than a lap hernia repair.  If it were me, and insurance was willing to cover the procedure, I would get a second opinion no matter how much I liked my surgeon! Lora

Awww, MAN!!! I know you are disappointed, but it sounds like this really is the only route.  (((HUGS)))

   WHo is your PS? Iam having trouble fiding one that will even try fo insurance coverage... Pam

I sent you a private message with the info... Lora