skin and pain issues... time to consider plastics

hi all...

i am approximately 15-16 months post rny.  i'm doing pretty well overall; i have managed to lose 144 pounds and am 14 pounds from my goal weight!  i am thrilled about that part of my journey.

now i believe it is time for part 2.  i am left with severe back pain from the sagging skin left where i lost a great deal of mass from my breasts.  i also believe i am at the beginning stages of skin issues beneath my pannus- i'm itchy and red and a bit malodorous (sorry, tmi, this is so embarassing!) despite my best efforts to keep it clean and dry.

so how do i begin the process of obtaining plastics?  does insurance cover some of the plastics if they are causing other medical issues?  what do i need documented and how do i go about it?  i'm just so very overwhelmed!  i would appreciate any advice/input that ya'll can help me out with. 

thank you all.  :)

I can only help you from MY experiences...... My first step was to make appointments with plastic surgeons. I ended up choosing a surgeon who spoke at a support group meeting at my weight loss clinic.

I went in doubting that insurance would ever help me out, but was pleasantly surprised when a panniculectomy was approved without a problem. I have never had a rash but apparently met their requirements of weight loss, etc. I am having that done next week with the addition of the skin above the belly button as well.

I paid on my own to have breast implants in September, and am SO happy that I did.

Your first step should be getting a few consultations with plastic surgeons. Some are better than others at helping with insurance issues.  Congratulations on your weight loss and good luck in the next part of your journey!

Martha

I would definitely start with some consultations and just see where they lead you. They should be able to help you figure out if insurnace will pay. Good luck.

I made an appt with a Plastic Surgeon affiliated with my Bariatric group.  They took pics and submitted them to my insurance and I was approved for a panniculectomy right away.  My PCP said that our medical group is good about covering if you meet the criteria and it is not excluded from your employer's policy.  I untimately saw 4 different surgeons before I settled on which one I wanted.  You can speak with your insurance about changing providers if you get approved and decide on a different doctor.

Good Luck!