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Sleeve vs Bypass

Hi,

I originally told my doctor office I was interested in the Bypass surgery but reading post and researching the different procedures, I'm now thinking the Sleeve now. I would like to hear thoughts from others who choose the sleeve or bypass and how did they make their descision. I appreciate any input. Also, I'm wondering if some insurance companies don't pay for the sleeve? I have UHC...for insurance.


Thanks so much!
Joanne
 
Hi Joanne, I had the RnY because my insurance company would only pay for that or the Lap Band where I was having my bypass done, I didn't know much about the sleeve until recently. My first thought was to get the RnY and after talking with my surgon and doctors, specialists, etc.. I stayed with the RnY. Since then my bariatric center has started doing the Sleeve, there are several Sleeve folks in my support group and thay are all very happy with it, the weight loss is pretty much identical and the surgons like it because if need be ithe sleeve can be changed over to an RnY quite esily. The important thing is to make sure you do what's best for you. Hope that helps a little. Happy Easter! :cool: Tom
 
Hi Joanne,
I am new to the site and saw your post. March 14th I had the sleeve and did not have any complications. Originally I went into the doctor regarding the lap-band but after listening to all the procedures decided to do some more research on my own while I was awaiting the 6 month checks for insurance. During this time I did a lot of reading and decided to go with the Gastric Sleeve. I have not regretted it at all. For me this was the best option and the less invasive for me. I agree with Tom that you need to do your research and select the best option for you. Good Luck!!
 
Hi Dakota, thanks for your input...I have a question for you, will you have to have any other surgeries down the road? I thought I read somewhere you often do. Also, did you have any problems with your insurance company? I'm still waiting to ask my doctor about this procedure. I really don't know... :)

Again, thanks
Joanne
 
After speaking with my doctor, if you follow the diet/plan then you should not need any additional surgeries. Now down the road if I have problems with the lose skin, then yes I will have the removal surgery. I did not have any problems with my insurance luckly. Hope this information helps. :)
 
Hello I'm new here & so far I like what I see. I'm getting the gastric bypass. I read about all the different surgeries,and decided on this one. My insurance is paying for it,but they don't pay for loose skin so that will be coming out of my pocket or should I say my husband's pocket lolz... I schedule for surgery May 30, 2012... We aren't rich neither so I'm saving money,but most likely it will be a loan to get it, cause I don't have over $10,000 with 3 kids,and tons of bills. Good luck to everyone.
 
Hello I'm new here & so far I like what I see. I'm getting the gastric bypass. I read about all the different surgeries,and decided on this one. My insurance is paying for it,but they don't pay for loose skin so that will be coming out of my pocket or should I say my husband's pocket lolz... I schedule for surgery May 30, 2012... We aren't rich neither so I'm saving money,but most likely it will be a loan to get it, cause I don't have over $10,000 with 3 kids,and tons of bills. Good luck to everyone.

Mami-Welcome to the forum. Find out if your insurance will pay for loose skin removal if it is medically necessary. Most will if this is the case. Medically necessary would be in the event that you develop an irritation or infection in the skin fold.
 
Hi joanne. When i went to see my surgeon, i already knew i wasn't interested in the lap band. We discussed the sleeve vs the bypass. She said the weight loss is essentially teh same, btu the sleeve is the 'new kid' on the block. The bypass is considered the standard fro weight loss surgery. She also recommended i have the bypass because of my diabtes. I am going with her adviceand willhave the bypass once i finish my 'pre-surgery' program and my insuranc gives approval. I can't wait!!! Marge
 
Joanne,

My only thing about the sleeve is that, they remove the remaining portion of your stomach, where as in the bypass, they leave the remaining part of the stomach. My concern is that, if you were to be dx with stomach cancer, what would you do with no remaining part to turn to?

Heather
 
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