Question:
Has anyones BMI dropped to low before surgery?

I am required to be on a liquid diet before surgery, my BMI is 41.0 and I am concerned it will drop below 40 before surgery. My ins. requires a BMI of 40 to approve WLS, I am concerned about the BMI going to low. I am 130 pounds overweight with a long history of diet failures. HELP!!    — [Anonymous] (posted on April 25, 2001)

April 25, 2001
Talk w/ your Dr and find out how they report it.. do they report your claim w/ your initial weight when you had the consult? Many people lose weight pre surgery because of dietary restrictions... I would sure hope that wouldn't disqualify you.
   — Dawn R.

April 25, 2001
This is my current fear as well. I have resigned myself to the fact that if it goes below 40 than I do not NEED the surgery to get to wellness (Even though I don't really feel that way)I feel more like it will be another lose and gain much more scenario. But I must give every every effort before surgery. You can read my profile on site. Good luck with you and let me know how it goes. I think it depends on what part of the country you are in. I swear if I were back east I would already be done with my surgery, but it is so backwards in Arizona I can't stand it! No one here even does the BPD/DS surgery in this state. gr. Anyway wanted to commiserate with ya. Hang in there! Danine
   — Danine N.

April 25, 2001
I'm concerned a little bit too that my BMI may not be high enough. I am 5'4" also and only 235, however I just lost some & I am actually under that right now, but I do have comorbidities which may save me. My first appt with the surgeon is monday, 4/30/01. I am trying to gain right now just to be on the safe side. But I also would think that your initial weigh in would be the # the insurance goes by. I work in Medical billing and deal w/insurance co's all the time. I doubt very much they will take the time to call every week to check in on your current weight, or have the Doc report in. My insurance also states we have to be twice the weight of those weight scales they have for women, men, small, med, lg frame. I am small frame and I believe I am suppose to be 119 or something. Well that means I should weigh at least 238, which I do not. The insurance didn't say anything at all about the comorbidities, but I think they will definately take it into consideration. I may have to appeal and if I do I am definately ready.
   — Karla K.

April 25, 2001
Hi, My doctor told me once your approved your approved and it dosen't matter. As long as your BMI is greater than 35. I hope this helps.
   — LAURIE W.

April 25, 2001
I think the BMI that is sent to the ins. co. is the initial one you saw the Dr. on for your consult. So, even if your BMI was 41 at the time of consult and less before surgery you shouldn't have a problem. Your Dr. will be thrilled with a smaller BMI as it is better for you and recovery. Check with the Dr. on what weight gets sent in. Bet it's the first one with the initial consult. Best wishes
   — Linda M.