Question:
Anyone on East Coast with Blue Cross PPO?

I'd like to hear from anyone on the East Coast who has had or is researching laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion or distal gastric bypass with the duodenal switch. If you're post-op, what surgeon did you use? How did it go? What's your diet like now? I'd also like to hear from anyone from the Midatlantic who has gotten Blue Cross to approve WLS of any kind. Thanks.    — [Anonymous] (posted on March 30, 2000)

March 30, 2000
Hi! I live in Virginia and I have just received approval for laparoscopic RNY with Dr. Eric DeMaria in Richmond, VA. Blue Cross Blue Shield approved the surgery without a fight. they definitely look at the long term benefits of having WLS. If I could give you one bit of advice, it would be to prepare yourself with as much info as possible before asking for approval. That way you have everything necessary ready and available should you be asked about it. Good Luck! Feel free to email me at [email protected] if you have any other questions or just need to chat! :-)
   — Sharon F.

April 3, 2000
I live in Fredericksburg, Va and had a lap BPD/Ds by Dr. Gagner in NYC on 12-13-99. So far I'm down 90 pounds in under 4 months. That's 50% of my excess lost already! Surgery was largely unremarkable, although a 2nd trip to the OR was needed to cap off a bleeding vein. This was also done laparoscopically, after which all was well. I had very little pain and what there was the morphine pump handled easily. I have no dietary restrictions whatsoever, and can now tolerate all foods well. I do eat smaller portions, but from salads to desserts, everything goes down fine. I had some initial trouble with BMs, but those have now subsided to 1-2 per day, in the morning. Life is good! I could go on for pages about the positive changes WLS has made in my life, but that's better handled via email. Write to me if you wish for more information about my surgery or Dr. Gagner.
   — Duffy H.