Will I qualify for surgery??

Mary L.
on 5/22/05 2:08 am - Rossville, GA
Hi all. I am new to this site. I have been researching the option of the gastric band. I weigh 202 lbs and have a BMI of 38.8. I am only 24. I have SEVERE joint pain in my feet, knees and hips. I also suffer from really bad back pain. I have already suffered from gall bladder disease and had that removed. I have tried every diet out there but if I do lose anything I gain it right back plus extra. I am miserable, I hurt all the time and I have no energy. I don't sleep at night b/c my arms lose circulation (don't know if that's from being over weight or not) and fall asleep. I don't have heart disease or diabetes but I have a family history of both along with high blood pressure. I live in the Chattanooga, TN area and don't know which doctors to check out. Any help would be appreciated! I am so glad I have found this sight! Can't wait to learn more.
Kathy Newton
on 5/22/05 2:24 am - LaVergne, TN
Mary you didn't mention how tall are you? Do you have sleep apnea? Most co morebilities are joint pain, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, diabeties. It sounds like you may qualify, but are you 100 lbs over weight? That's what is necessary. There is a surgeon in Chattanooga. Check with him regarding whether you are a good candidate. Sorry can't help you out anymore then that. Best of luck. Kathy
Mary L.
on 5/22/05 2:35 am - Rossville, GA
Thanks Kathy. I am 5' 1''. My ideal weight is 111lbs. I am about 91lbs over weight. Do you know of the surgeon in Chattanooga? His/her name? Thanks for the help!
tnvideo
on 5/22/05 3:58 am - Rockwood, TN
Found these two at (http://www)asbs.org/ Regular Member: GB LB FOLL Walter B. Rose MD FACS 423-698-8692 USA Regular Member: LGBP LB Jack F. Rutledge MD 423-892-4337 877-892-4338 USA Probably more but maybe a good start, best of luck.
YankeeRose
on 5/22/05 9:43 am - Meadville, PA
Hi Mary! What type of insurance do u have? A lot will probably depend on your individual policy and what their requirements for WLS are. Generally though, you must either have a BMI of 40 or more or 35-40 with comorbidities, like sleep apnea, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, etc. You could also check the NIH website which should give a detailed list of what consitutes morbid obesity, comorbs, etc. But, check with your policy first. Good luck! Tammy
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