Lap Band Question

Hi, I am Kelly and I am new here. I am in KNoxville and am researching the lap band procedure. I have a lower back condition that limits my exercise but my being overweight makes my back pain worse. (catch 22 huh?!) I am 5'4" and weight 209. Does anyone know if I am a viable candidate for the procedure? I am not quite 100 pounds overwight (more like 80) and wasn't sure what the guidelines are. If there is a website that gives the guidelines, that would be helpful as well. Thanks!

Hi Kelly. Welcome to the OH local board. You will find a lot of support here. As far as surgery, I think it really will depend on your insurance restrictions. Most insurance companies (and surgeon's recommendations) are that you have to have a BMI of 40 to be considered for the surgery. You have a BMI of 35.9. Some will do the surgery with a BMI of 35 if you have two co-morbidies (weight related health issues). I would assume your lower back problem would be counted as one health related issue. Do you have any others? And, it might be different with Lap Banding on the requirements. I am mainly thinking about the RNY (bypass) procedure mostly. With Lap banding, the BMI restrictions could be lower. You probably need to read through your insurance plan to verify. Good luck! Misty

Kelly, I live in Jacksboro, which is about 30 miles north of Knoxville. I had lap-band surgery in June. Have you been to any seminars about weight loss surgery? Dr. Stephen Boyce is my surgeon. He has done more gastric bypass surgeries than lap-band, but he is a great surgeon. He has a wonderful bedside manner. Lets see, your BMI is 35.9 and you have back problems that is made worse by being overweight. I think that would make you a canidate. Feel free to email me with any questions that you have. Amy