Does your insurance cover these types of surgeries? New to these forums, curious about a...

Hello, I am very new to these forums. I just recently decided to have the gastric sleeve. My insurance company does not cover any weight loss surgeries, thus I am having to pay in cash. The only reason I have the money for this is from a settlement from an accident nearly 5 years ago. Now I'm curious, how so many people can afford these surgeries? Do the majority of insurance companies cover these at all? I have just enough from my settlement to cover this major surgery, so I have no idea if I would be able to pay for plastic surgery in the future. I have seen some before and after pictures in regards to the excess skin and it kind of worries me. I had lost 100 pounds on my own before, but that was over a greater period of time so I didn't have as much skin. I am also 29, so I am hoping my age helps contribute to my skin elasticity, as well as planning on working with weights 2-3 times per week. I'd like to get some input and more information as to this part of the journey, and would appreciate some enlightenment! Thanks in advance. :) 

It is less about the insurance company --- and all about the level of coverage your employer carries.
For example, I have United HealthCare --- and so does my husband -- separate policies under our different employers.

My policy does not cover bariatric procedures, his does.

I self paid for my WLS and then I self-paid for  different plastic surgeries (breast lift/arms and then tummy tuck).

It is important that you read your individual policy ---

Kath is completely right!  It has nothing to do with which company you have, it has everything to do with which plan.  Your employer pays for your coverage and they make the rules of what they will cover and what they won't.

My United Healthcare refused all WLS except RNY.  They also refused ALL plastics following WLS.  I have been self pay for everything from the beginning!  IT's very frustrating.

I was self pay for my WLS and I will be self pay for my plastics. 

My insurance covered my sleeve but I was totally self pay for my plastics.  Good luck to you as you start your journey...it is the best journey ever!

Patty

Just like others said, it depends on what type of plan your company purchased.

I an self pay and about 20 thousand out of pocket. But worth EVERY dollar!!

Thanks for the responses. Our policy distinctly states that it is not covered. As it is, I feel guilty for spending so much money on the actual weight loss surgery. I don't know how I could ask my family to sacrifice even more for vanity's sake, you know? Maybe if I were the one working in our household I could see it, but my husband is the sole provider while I'm in school, and it doesn't seem as if it would be fair. Perhaps I will feel differently when I get to the point of actually needing it, I don't know. In the meantime I suppose I should stop worrying about something that may or may not be needed in the next few years and focus on actually preparing for surgery.

Just concentrate and enjoy your weight loss journey for now. mant things could change when the time comes for skin removal. Good luck.