Question:
Can someone please tell me how to get started?

I am new to wls and I would like for some to tell me how to get started and how easy it is to get going. I am 31 years old and weight 228. I have Blue Shield BlueCross. I want to know if anyone has done the surgery through this insurance. I want to know what my chances are to qualify before I get my hopes up. Please email me at [email protected] Thank you :o) N alvarenga    — alvarenn (posted on June 19, 2002)

June 19, 2002
Hi, I tried emailing you, but you have no profile. How tall are you? 228 is very lighweight, are you less than 5'2"?
   — Tina P.

June 19, 2002
Hi. Yes, I have BC/BS Federal. The way I started was I called Duke University. Because of location, they referred me to the University of Virginia Hospital to a surgeon there. Turns out the surgeon I was referred to graduated from Duke and taught the surgeon at Duke and alot of other. So I knew right then I was in good hands. It's a long process, that's why this site calls it a journey. So research, pray and research some more. The main thing you want to do is select a surgeon you have total confidence in. I had no complications whatsoever. I am blessed. I love my new life. You can research everything you need to know right here on this site. You can click on to your state, look for surgeons, etc. Holler back if you need any help. By the way, the BC/BS federal policy covers any state so I lucked out there and didn't have to stay local.
   — Annie H.

June 20, 2002
First I would research this site, then get a referral from your primary care doctor, But I am going to be honest unless you have allot of health problems, it will be tough for you to convince the insurance company the medical need for it because you probably do not weigh enough. but at least give it a try, you never know if you can succeed unless you try
   — Grace H.

June 20, 2002
I started at 230 and had no problems getting approved. My BMI was 43. Hi, Norma! I am from houston. If you are in Houston, you may consider NeWeigh. They do all the insurance stuff for you and have an extensive aftercare program available. Their website is www.neweighweb.com.
   — ctyst

June 20, 2002
In order to qualify for the surgery, most surgeons/insurance companies require that you are 100 pounds or more overweight, have a BMI over 40 or a BMI between 35 and 40 with medical complications such as diabetes, or sleep apnea, and a history of diet programs that have failed. Your weight, 228 is kind of low, unless you are short. BC/BS is a good insurance company, and when I went thru them, the above information is what they required. Find a local surgeon who is experienced in WLS, and they will walk you thru the insurance process. Congrats for taking the first step!
   — Cindy R.