How many of you were told...

Were you told to lose weight before you could have your surgery? I've seen several people on the main board who said that they had to lose weight before their surgery. Mmmm....does anyone know the reason for this? Just curious. Donna P

I was told to quit smoking (done) and to lose 30 lbs (so NOT DONE due to the first item) I don't know why....my Dr was acting like my BMI was too high, etc...but he's challenging anyway. AnnMarie

From the verry little I know, it seems that the LAP surgery is the one with the weight loss requirements. But I may be completely wrong. My doctor never mentioned anything like that. I am 5'8" and 320#. Jim

I was told this as well, it is because they want the fat off of your liver. Any weight you lose makes it easier for the Dr.'s to do laproscopic surgery. Deanne Dr. Blackstone 11/9/04

Good answers. Thanks! Donna P

Glad I could answer you question. Deanne

I had to try and lose 30lbs before surgery. Well actually before they would submit all my stuff to insurance. I saw the dietican and within 1 month I lost 20lbs and they went ahead and submitted everything to insurance. I had my pre-op stuff done yesterday and I was SOOO scared that I had gained, but I actually lost another 2lbs. It's only 2lbs, but I'll take what I can get. My surgeon said that it cuts the risk by 50% when you lose some weight pre-op and like others said it makes it easier to do it lap. I feel good that I have lost some weight already, it's helping me get in the mode. But It also has made me aware of how hard it can be to give up something we all seem to love so much!! Food!! Anywasy, that's my experience!! Good Luck!! Melissa 11/4

The first place i was going to have surgery said i had to lose 10% of my body weight which was like, 31 pounds. And i just COULD NOT do it for ANYTHING, so i just switched surgeons!!! They make you lose 10% of your body weight to prove that you can actually stick to a diet, AND losing that weight shrinks the liver and makes surgery easier for the surgeon!!! Hope this helps!!! ~Amy

Hi, I was also told to lose at least ten lbs, I'm thinking if I could have lost weight I wouldn't be here!!! but because my BIM is close to 60 he said I my have to have a filter put in the prevent blood clots. So that is making me think I could try a little bit harder. my surgery date is 11-18-04 Nora

I was not told to loose weight, however, i have to go on a liquid diet 10 days before surgery. This shrinks you liver the Doc says. Jackie C