Post WLS panalectomy---Is there a secret?

Hi everyone! I know I am not the most active member, but everything has been so easy since my bypass surgery in October of 2004. Now I am trying to get my stomach taken care of because it is really starting to bother my back. But, I just found out that BCBS of Illinois has turned down my claim because I don't get rashes. Well I should say I don't get severe rashes. The big problem is my back. I have already had 2 surgeries on it and it is really starting to act up now from the excess skin hanging down in the front. What I would like to know is if anyone else has had this problem and what they did to get it taken care of. I was told that this was one of the surgeries that was covered after the bypass surgery. I wasn't going to have it done, but my back is becoming very touchy lately and I know it's the stomach skin that his pulling me out of wack! Anyone have any ideas? Thanks in advance for any help! Mary

Unfortunately, for most insurance companies consider skin removal as being cosmetic. You will need to come up with some way for it to be considered medically necessary. Were your back surgeries done as a result the excess skin causing strain on your back? If so see if you can get your back surgeon to help determine that this is a medical necessity for your to have the panni done. With the rashes you will need to go to the doc and have each and everyone documented etc. How much did you loose as a result of your WLS? Many insurance companies will approve if there is over 100# weight lost. You will need to start doing your homework as far as how to get your panni covered. Good luck and keep us posted. Chris

Thanks for replying Christine. Friday was the worst day ever. I just found out that BCBS of Illinois wouldn't cover my panni. I had been told before I had my WLS that is was the only part that was covered. Anyway, that is how I came here for help. No the previous 2 surgeries on my back were not related to excess skin. Of course I don't think my weight at the time helped. Now the surgeon that I loved is retired so I am going to have to find a new one. I don't get rashes...of course I think showering twice a day (once in the morning before work and a quick one after I work out) kind of keeps that in check. I also have exceedingly dry skin. But, on the plus side I have lost 140 lbs. But, that hanging skin is pulling me out of shape and it isn't helping my back which is testy a lot more these days. I will start documenting and let you know what happens! Thanks again Mary