I also had open bypass August 2003. I then had a bowl obstruction Jan. 2005 so that added about 6 inches to my already 5-6 inch scar. I had a tummy tuck done August 25, 2005. It wasn't hard for me to get insurance approval. Went to PS, he submitted letter, and I would say within about 1 month I was approved no questions asked. I carried all of my weight in my stomach area prior to bypass ... so as you can imagine I had a ton of extra skin ... when I had my tummy tuck the dr. removed 20 pounds of skin and fat ... Yuck! It is about the same pain as bypass ... except I would say more swelling ... but I am sure that varies for everyone. I would do it all over again ... so that must tell you it's not horribly painful. The pain goes away within time!

Good luck .. and questions let me know.