I have had a lapband for 10+ years. I have never had any luck with losing any weight with it and the past 3 years it has been very painful due to scar tissue building around it. I have 3 years of visiting my Primary care dr with stomach pain, chest pain, and reflux. Spent thousands on tests and office visits + EGD and barium swallows trying to figure out why the band hurts so bad. No slip, no erosion, just hurts like a madman. I now weigh exactly what I did when I got the band with a BMI of 35. I have insulin resistance (but not diabetes yet) high blood pressure, reflux, sleep disorders, hypo thyroid issues, serious depression, shortness of breath, and very high triglycerides. All of these conditions require 7 expensive meds a day plus therapy and counseling for the depression. My primary care dr. has written letters to CIGNA practically begging them to revise from band to sleeve. My surgeon, who put the original band in, has asked for the okay to revise. Yesterday Cigna reaffirmed their decision to deny based on (are you ready for this) #1 There has been no evidence that there has been a mechanical failure of the band and #2 Weight loss surgery is experimental for the treatment of diabetes. I DONT HAVE DIABETES AND THE DR NEVER SAID THE BAND HAD A MECHANICAL FAILURE. I only have until the end of the year and then my husbands insurance changes to where we will no longer have WLS coverage. At this point I would love advice and recommendations for which Dallas area doctors can get fast new patient appointments and most important who has the best, most experienced insurance approval staff? I am so frustrated with this. Badly need help very soon.

Congratulations!!!!!  We're both November sleevers!  I just found out yesterday I was approved as well--11/20th is surgery date but had to start pre-op diet already.  Good luck on your surgery, 

Lisa

WOW, ALL I CAN SAY IS WOW, I am amazed   and saddened but the response, I hav e worked hard all my life for me, for my family, for my health insurance, NOT FOR YOU.