PS Question

When should you ask your PCP for a referral to a Plastic Surgeon? I've lost a little over 111 pounds but still need to lose another 65 pounds before I personally think I'd be ready for surgeries.

BUT... the apron really is becoming a hindrance. I am starting to document my complaints with my PCP.

You can ask for the PS referral list at any time, you don't have to wait. Usually it's a printed list of surgeons they would recommend.

However, do your homework: just because your PCP "recommends" them doesn't mean they are any good. You probably would do better to get referrals from your weight-loss surgeon. They often see what patients look like after extreme weight-loss and after the plastic surgery.

And don't think you have to go to anyone on the referral lists. I ended up going out of the state because there were only about 3 surgeons in my city who had any experience with full lower body lifts...and none had the level of experience or documented results that met my expectations :-(

Does your insurance cover a panniculectomy? Not many do, even with documentation and a doctor referral.

It does... and it is medically necessary for me. My apron hangs down low and I have skin issues. My insurance company has been very cool about everything. *knocks on wood*

If insurance pays for a panni, see about paying the difference to a tummy tuck or lower body lift.  Might not be too much out of pocket to upgrade.

Your weight should have stabilized over a period of about a year. You could have it done at any time but you run the risk of more looseness developing if you lost a significant amount of weight after your plastic surgery procedures.