brandy327
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,353 
|
Post by brandy327 on May 4, 2016 16:44:48 GMT
I've been around the pod for a long time and most know that I've lost a significant amount of weight over the last 13 years and in the next year or so should reach my goal weight. I flip flop back and forth on whether to consider the skin removal surgery or not. I was 350 lbs or at least 300 lbs for many, MANY years of my life and I've lost more than 150 lbs at this point. I have SO much excess skin - tummy, inner thighs and arms are by far the worst...oh and the boobs that have completely deflated and are nothing more than flaps of skin. I'm not stupid and realized excess skin was part of the weight loss. I knew there'd be a lot. And I'll say straight out, that if any of you have watched that show Skin Tight that focused on skin removal surgery after extreme weight loss, I'm no where NEAR as emotionally damaged by the excess skin as some of those people were. I guess years of being fat and wearing tank tops and shorts anyway and getting nasty looks kind of desensitized me in that I'll wear whatever I want and if you don't like too freaking bad. Don't look. More than anything, it's annoying as hell. Imagine wearing a size 10 and having to buy a size 12 or 14 just so you can tuck your excess belly in. The bottom part of the pants are too big but it's tight across the belly. Shirt sleeves never fitting in the upper arms. It's a HUGE expense...for something that I guess most people would consider vanity. I've looked into our insurance and you have to have a very long and medically documented case of skin issues to even be considered. And yes, I do have skin issues that would probably benefit from having the excess skin removed, it's never been documented and those conditions won't go away because they're autoimmune. Soooo, it'll all be out of pocket. My best guesstimate would be between $30K-60K. I absolutely cannot fathom spending that kind of money on myself for something not necessary. The reality if I don't do the surgery is that the remainder of my life will be spent in several spanx or compression pieces to smoothe out the excess skin. Not exactly comfortable but not thousands of dollars. Can anyone offer either perspective or advice or....anything really.  ETA: I know how the peas love pics so here's a comparison. The pic on the left is from 1998 and probably my highest weight (somewhere around 350 lbs - I didn't own a scale that would weigh me so I have to guess at how much I weighed) and then the pic on the right was taken Monday when I officially weighed in for the first time ever under 200 lbs.  |
|
gsquaredmom
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 4,078
Jun 26, 2014 17:43:22 GMT
|
Post by gsquaredmom on May 4, 2016 16:49:23 GMT
I had a male neighbor have excess skin removed after weight loss. Covered by insurance and not that hard for him to get. It took documentation but not an extraordinary amount. He looks great and it was an important part of his weight loss journey.
|
|
|
|
Post by mellowyellow on May 4, 2016 16:51:25 GMT
First of all, congratulations on your success! I've watched you over the years and I'm so proud of you!
I've lost 108 lbs so I know the feeling. As long as my clothes are on...I look ok! LOL! Could you maybe start getting the skin issues documented? It might take awhile but it sure beats the price tag of doing it on your own. I say go for it anyway you can! Good luck to you!
|
|
Why
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,135
Member is Online
|
Post by Why on May 4, 2016 16:53:49 GMT
You deserve to look and feel good. You did all the hard work of losing the weight so now it is your turn. It is not selfish to take care of you.
|
|
|
|
Post by leannec on May 4, 2016 17:00:13 GMT
I don't have any advice but I know where you are coming from ... I have an abdominal "flap" from my two c-sections that just got worse after my gastric bypass  I've heard that the surgery to remove the type of skin you are talking about is VERY painful ... but worth it if it's what will make you happy  I think it is awesome that you are close to your goal weight  |
|
marianne
Pearl Clutcher
Not my circus, not my monkeys. . . My monkeys fly!
Posts: 4,176
Location: right smack dab in the middle of SC
Site Supporter
Jun 25, 2014 21:08:26 GMT
|
Post by marianne on May 4, 2016 17:03:55 GMT
I agree with what the others have said. You've worked long and hard to achieve your goal and I think you should complete the journey. I don't view it as vain or unnecessary; the excess skin removal is all part of the goal... it's excess weight you don't need. I would talk with your doctor to help start documentation on what could evolve into a potential problem. You deserve to feel good about ALL of yourself - you've certainly earned it!
Congratulations and good luck!
|
|
|
|
Post by dewryce on May 4, 2016 17:06:42 GMT
What a tremendous accomplishment, good for you!
Think about your everyday happiness. How much will this affect you? Yes, it's a lot of money but, to me, is worth a lifetime of not having to deal with this everyday, multiple times a day. To say nothing of feeling good in your own skin. If I were you, I'd start going to the doctor's NOW, making sure they know how long this has been going on and hopefully by the time you are ready for it your insurance is much more likely to pay for it. So, you don't need to make your decision now, but make that option a little easier down the road.
|
|
melissa
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,912
|
Post by melissa on May 4, 2016 17:14:29 GMT
I agree. It's time to make sure this is documented.
BTW, it may not take years of documentation. When I was in private practice, I was able to document that a patient had years of pain along with my physical finding of grooves in the shoulders, that was helpful for insurance documentation. Also, be aware that just because something is rejected the first time does not mean it will be rejected the second time.
As far as skin conditions, if you are busy preventing them with powders, etc in the folds, that counts.
I had a friend who was also able to have some of her skin removal surgeries covered by insurance. She had lost about 250 lbs over a 2 year period.
|
|
LeaP
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,939
Location: Los Angeles, CA where 405 meets 101
|
Post by LeaP on May 4, 2016 17:18:26 GMT
I say go a few more rounds with the insurance company. It might be that extra skin exacerbates the auto immune. Also, if you are arguing with Anthem, they just lost a case in California and may be re-evaluating to previously rejected claims.
|
|
|
|
Post by PolarGreen12 on May 4, 2016 17:19:34 GMT
brandy327A lot of skin removal surgery is now being covered by insurance. Especially the lower abdomen part. If it rubs or causes chaffing, hinders full movement, they see it as a medical necessity. So look into that too. And congrats!! That's a wonderful accomplishment!! I'm only 57 lbs down and have a long way to go, but will probably be looking into these surgeries as well. Oops sorry just saw you've already dealt with the insurance a bit.
|
|
brandy327
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,353
|
Post by brandy327 on May 4, 2016 17:27:22 GMT
I agree. It's time to make sure this is documented. BTW, it may not take years of documentation. When I was in private practice, I was able to document that a patient had years of pain along with my physical finding of grooves in the shoulders, that was helpful for insurance documentation. Also, be aware that just because something is rejected the first time does not mean it will be rejected the second time. As far as skin conditions, if you are busy preventing them with powders, etc in the folds, that counts. I had a friend who was also able to have some of her skin removal surgeries covered by insurance. She had lost about 250 lbs over a 2 year period. Thanks for chiming in Melissa! I appreciate your input. The actual skin fold issues (inverse psoriasis) have been documented for quite a few years but not with photos...just meds being prescribed. It does help eliminate the skin issues some but I know that if the skin on skin contact isn't there, it wouldn't get nearly as bad. Do you think I should go to a specific doctor to document? I currently see a rheumetologist, a dermatologist, ob/gyn and gastroenterologist. I have a PCP but I can count on one hand the number of times I've gone there in the last 10 years. I figure I see these other doctors enough no sense going to a PCP too.  |
|
brandy327
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,353
|
Post by brandy327 on May 4, 2016 17:30:18 GMT
I say go a few more rounds with the insurance company. It might be that extra skin exacerbates the auto immune. Also, if you are arguing with Anthem, they just lost a case in California and may be re-evaluating to previously rejected claims. I'm absolutely positive the extra skin exacerbates the auto immune issues. Not Athem, Harvard Pilgrim. A close friend of mine had gastric bypass, not specifically for weight loss but for some other concerning medical problems. She lost a significant amount of weight and had excess skin. She has the same insurance (our dh's work together) and she looked into it and said they told her that it's almost impossible to get the surgeries covered without documentation with photos. |
|
|
|
Post by mrsp on May 4, 2016 18:06:08 GMT
I am all for doing what feels right to you over the long term. I think if I were you, I would find a plastic surgeon and get an appointment. Board certified is a must and if you can get a personal referral from someone you know, even better. You want someone who does the type of surgery you want ***all the time*** So don't be afraid to ask how many tummy tucks (or whatever) the doc does a month.
I'm guessing the plastic surgeons office knows the plastic surgery related insurance billing system best and if there is any part of your surgery that can be covered. Frankly, some insurance is a no-go but you want to do your due diligence.
The doctor should be able to give you an idea of what they can do for you and if you should be at a certain weight (and for how long) before considering the surgery. That will give you a lot of things to consider and also time to save/plan for the cost. If you get the surgery in two years, your insurance may have different coverage as well.
Keep in mind that the doctor's fee is a portion of the charge and in my experience with my husband's heart surgery, the anesthesia was a significant portion of the cost and that bill was separate from the hospital and cardiologist fee. Just ask all the questions so you understand. Don't be shy! This is your first time and any doctors office who can't readily answer these questions should be avoided!
Those are just my thoughts and hopefully help you a bit.
|
|
blue tulip
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 2,984
|
Post by blue tulip on May 4, 2016 18:33:57 GMT
don't give up, but if you go thru everything and cannot get it covered by insurance, you may want to check out this guy. www.medicaltourism.com.mx/mtad.html . i have been following him for several years as i hope to get a tummy tuck and breast lift when i reach my goal. he has many, many testimonials and info to be found in threads on the obesity help website, as well as other post-weight loss surgery sites. a friend of mine lost over 200 lbs several years ago and had surgery done by him. the man is a magician. her surgery would've been covered in Canada too, where she lived, but she still opted to use this guy and has excellent results. i know it sounds shady to have surgery done for less in mexico. if you do your research, there are safe, viable options like his practice. |
|
|
|
Post by cmpeter on May 4, 2016 19:06:25 GMT
I would start the photo documenting now. Even if it takes you a couple years before you commit to the surgery, you'll have more of a historic of the skin issues.
My mom does not have insurance and went to Mexico for her surgery (not weight loss related though). She had a very positive experience, so I wouldn't rule out that option. She said the place she went was full of Canadians. Most would have eventually been covered by insurance in Canada but the wait was longer than they wanted, so they went to Mexico.
|
|
|
|
Post by lily on May 4, 2016 19:06:30 GMT
Check out this blog...she lost a significant amount of weight and had surgery. I am pretty sure she said insurance paid for a lot of it, and I don't think she had a lot of skin issues. www.runsforcookies.com/p/plastic-surgery.html |
|
|
|
Post by crazy4scraps on May 5, 2016 3:58:18 GMT
Way to go on your weight loss! That's awesome! I think if you're considering not doing it because of the expense, you should at least try to start the documenting process now anyway. What do you have to lose by working toward that goal? If they tell you no, you're in the same spot you're in now having to decide whether to pay for it yourself, and you can always try again later. But if by some turn of luck it MIGHT be covered, you'll already have things lined up and in process. Good luck, you've worked hard and you deserve to feel good in your own skin--literally! |
|
|
|
Post by chaosisapony on May 5, 2016 4:08:11 GMT
I don't think it's just vanity, it seems like it would be troublesome dealing with a lot of excess skin for the rest of your life. If I were in the same position and wasn't terrified of surgery I'd save up and figure out a way to pay for it. Since you have insurance can you start the documentation process now? Then perhaps a few years from now they will cover it. It doesn't sound like you're in a hurry so you might as well try and see what happens! |
|
|
|
Post by monicad on May 5, 2016 5:00:18 GMT
Have you seen rocktheshade on Instagram? Tina is a super sweet woman who once weighed over 500 pounds. She lost the weight and had skin removal surgery, but there have been some complications. I'm sure she'd be happy to talk to you about it (I don't know her personally, but she always seems to be very open and honest).
|
|
brandy327
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,353
|
Post by brandy327 on May 5, 2016 10:13:27 GMT
Thank you SO much for all the kind words and advice ladies. I've checked out the blog/IG that was recommended. I talked with my dh about it last night and I think I'm going to get an appt soon and at least begin the steps. I still have no less than 30-40 lbs to lose but as someone said, I'm not in a huge hurry and I want to prove to myself (as well as the doctors) that I can maintain this loss. |
|
TankTop
Pearl Clutcher
Refupea #1,871
Posts: 4,767
Location: On the couch...
Jun 28, 2014 1:52:46 GMT
|
Post by TankTop on May 5, 2016 11:07:48 GMT
My bestie thought it would be all out of pocket and was shocked that it is not. You never know!
|
|
|
|
Post by Monica* on May 5, 2016 12:23:30 GMT
It's all been covered above but I am so happy for you Brandy! I knew you were working on your weight loss, but I had no idea you were so close to your goal. I agree 100 percent you should get the surgery however it works out. You are young with a long life ahead of you. You deserve this happiness. Congratulations!
|
|
|
|
Post by pierkiss on May 5, 2016 12:35:30 GMT
I got nothing. But I wanted to tell you that you have done an amazing job getting into shape! I am so impressed by your perseverance and strong will. You look great! |
|
|
|
Post by bdhudak on May 5, 2016 12:42:25 GMT
Just want to say Congratulations. I am guessing once you would find a surgeon that you trust to do the surgery you're interested in having done, they would have a point person in their office to gather all the medical records from your different physicians and make a comprehensive report to submit to your insurance company to qualify for your procedure. What a journey you are on!
|
|
|
|
Post by jeremysgirl on May 5, 2016 12:48:32 GMT
I just saw your pictures and read your story and I have to say, I am so proud of you. You have really worked hard. It is huge what you have done. I hope you feel fabulous. I lost 80 pounds and I know what my stomach looks like. If I had the money for a tummy tuck, I would hands down get one. I deal with extra skin around my stomach and I hate it. But I think you are beautiful no matter what and I am just so in awe of your accomplishment. You deserve to feel comfortable in your skin.
|
|
|
|
Post by scrappychick on May 5, 2016 13:18:51 GMT
I totally think being comfortable with your body is worth the money. You are worth the expense, especially after all the work you've put into it!
|
|
teddyw
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,824
|
Post by teddyw on May 5, 2016 13:24:46 GMT
Wow congratulations on your hard work. You look great.
Appeal the insurance.
|
|
|
|
Post by Mary_K on May 5, 2016 13:57:20 GMT
That before/after is AMAZING! You've worked so hard and it shows. I'll bet you feel so much better, too!
Don't rule out insurance being able to pay a portion for skin removal. If you can document ANY physical problems due to it, a plastic surgeon's office should be able to get it through.
So happy for your weight loss!
Mary K
|
|
|
|
Post by dewryce on May 5, 2016 14:15:50 GMT
What an amazing transformation, go you! As someone who has a large amount of weight to lose and keeps gaining back everything I lose, my hat's off to you!  |
|
~Susan~
Pearl Clutcher
You need to check your boobs, mine tried to kill me!!!
Posts: 3,258
Jul 6, 2014 17:25:32 GMT
|
Post by ~Susan~ on May 5, 2016 14:28:57 GMT
|
|
