Question:
BMI is real close to 40. (39.7) will this create any problem?

   — Christi S. (posted on May 3, 2002)

May 3, 2002
Honestly, mine was 39.7 too and I was worried about insurance coverage. I dropped my height by 1/4 of an inch and it upped the BMI to 40. Then later on when the surgery was definite I ended up gaining weight because I was eating all of my favorite things that I may never be able to eat again. That upped the BMI to really over 40.
   — Linda A.

May 3, 2002
Hi my bmi was 39.6 but my doctor said there probaly would not be a problem because I had a few co-morbid obesity health issues. High cholestrol, mild sleep apnea, but the main reason I wanted it so bad is because my back hurts so much. Anyway I was approved by bc/bs. Since then I too have gained weight from not being to careful about my weight. Best wishes. Geri
   — Geralyn

May 3, 2002
Insurance companies look for each and every reason to deny. If you have no comorbidities, it is possible. I have seen people gain weight to qualify. I have seen people load their pockets with rolls of quarters when they weigh in to qualify. Best wishes in getting approval!
   — [Deactivated Member]

May 3, 2002
My BMI was about 38.9 with no co-morbitities and I am now 1 week post op. I got insurance approval over the phone. It really depends on your INS. Company. Good Luck.
   — Michell C.

May 3, 2002
Check your height. When I started out, I thought my height was 5'3", which would have had my BMI at 39.8 or so...but when I was officially measured, my height, to my surprise, was 5'2", and brought my bmi to 40.7. Just a thought. Good luck.
   — Mustang

May 3, 2002
Christi, I would suggest finding out from your ins co. EXACTLY what their policy is before you send in your paper work. My insurance company Neighborhood Health that I pay $950 a month for for my family of 4 denied me. They said I had to weigh twice the upper limit of my ideal weight. I am 5'3" and 225lbs, BMI is 39.9 I suggest you find out....and then lie a little! hate to say it but being honest just cost me $26,000
   — robyn R.

May 4, 2002
when I was trying to be approved, I took an inch off my hieght, and gained 8 pounds (it was xmas time, so it was so very easy)and, then I was at 40 or 41 bmi. I was denied twice, so i had to self pay.I lost the 8 pounds, and became tall again.i have seen posts were they wear thier chunkiest shoes, and layered, some even filled thier pockets with change. It unfair that a couple of pounds could keep someone from having this surgery. good luck
   — amy T.