Question:
Should I start now getting approval and make appt. or wait??

I didn't get any answers on the message board so I am asking here like I should have to start with!!! I have an appt. next February the 27th for my yearly check-up and to see about my panniculectomy surgery, my pcp told me to call him back in January and he will send the referral then, because the referral is good for 3 months. I know the doctor that does the plastic surgery is in the same place as my WLS surgeon, should I try and get an appt. set up for around the same time once I find out who the plastic surgeon is for sure or should I wait and see my surgeon first and see who he recommends and who my pcp recommends? Would it be a good idea to call my PCP and find out who the doctors that do the surgery are for sure? My insurance has a contract with 2 different doctors, I want to be totally ready, I have a 6 month wait yet, but I had to make my wls appt. almost a year ahead, that's why I'm asking. Please tell me what I should do or do I have plenty of time yet??    — bikerchic (posted on September 8, 2002)

September 8, 2002
All your questions depend on how your insurance policy works. For instance, do you have to have a referral to make an appointment? Can you choice the reconstruction surgeon or fo you have to use one on your plan? For me, my policy doesn't require a referral to anyone. I choice the doctor. Do you have a PPO or HMO? It will make a difference in answering your questions. Sorry I couldn't help more.
   — Cheryl S.

September 9, 2002
I started out with one plastic surgeon based on a referral and changed plastic surgeons in mid stream. I think you need to see them as soon as possible and see who you feel most comfortable with. Also, see how they do the procedure and if you can live with it that way. My first doctor wanted to do an anchor incision and the second said I didn't need it. So I opted for the second surgeon and he was right!!! Now I have a nice flat tummy and one less scar. I also like this plastic surgeon MUCH better then the first one. It is an interview process and you need to feel comfortable with the doctor you choose.
   — Patty H.