Do I have to gain to lose??

Good Morning everyone,  I am a noobie here, but I have been an avid reader for a long time.  I am reaching out to see if someone can please give me some advice or guidance with my dilema... I went to a seminar last night hosted by a local bariatric surgeon.  He came highly recommended by both my friends and coworkers.   I was very excited to be there in hopes that this will be the 1st step towards my "new" life.  However, I discovered that based on the NHI guidelines, I am NOT a candidate for bariatric surgery.   My BMI is 37.5, and I don't have diabetes, heart disease, or sleep apnea (Which is a good thing!).  Basically, I am 15 lbs underweight to qualify with my current health conditions! 

So, essentially, is gaining the 15 lbs my only option at this point?  Has anyone been in the same situation, and if so, were you still able to get qualified.  Also, I am contemplating getting the Lap-Band if that will make any difference. Thanks in advance for your help & support!

Some people intentionally gain, but that's a personal choice.   Here are the things that you should consider/reconsider (whichever is appropriate): -Have you been measured at the surgeon's office?  Many people think they are taller than they actually are, which could mean your BMI is higher than you think.  This was true for me.   - Have you had any other problems like stress incontinence, arthritis, joint pain, frequent headaches, or maybe just a family history of heart disease?  Not all insurance carriers require diabetes, heart disease or sleep apnea, although these are the most commonly accepted co-morbidities.   Don't throw in the towel just yet.

LOL I was shorter too... but you need to call your insurance company and see what their specific guidelines are. That is where I would start. Laurie

I had my hubby help me measure my height, and it turns out that I am an inch shorter than I thought I was.  That puts me even closer to the 40 BMI!  Yippeeee!! The surgeon himself told me that not only does the insurance company require the three main comorbidities, but he does as well.  I have chronic lower back pain, knee pain, joint pain, and a family history of diabetes and heart disease.  I have an appt with the surgeon next week; so hopefully all will go well and he will give me the go ahead for surgery.  Thanks for all of your support!!  Happy Valentine's Day!!  <3

Most insurance companies require a qualifying BMI for x number of years (most go with 5.) What does your policy state? Also, I always recommend a PCP physical as well. Over 50% of our surgical candidates presented to us not knowing that they had a comorbid like sleep apnea, diabetes, enlarged heart, etc.

For what it's worth, I don't have any of those 3 comorbidities, and I got approved for RNY.  Maybe it depends on the surgeon, and if this one doesn't work out, try another one.  Don't give up!

I was like you. I was underweight by 15 pounds. I bit the bullet and gained it....didn't want too, but what was I to do? When I did this...along with the weight came.....high blood pressure & now my feet/legs/back/ankles HURT! I'm talking about hurt....like I want to cry. I have lost some of the weight (from the 15lbs gained), cause I qualify with high blood pressure, and I have a family history of heart disease and diabetics. I have an appt with Dr Jawad on March 4th and I'm hoping that all goes well and I can begin my life changing surgery very soon. I have several steps before surgery, but, if I put my mind to it. It can be done in a short amount of time. The insurance is the biggest thing I face right now. My primary Doc is ready and waiting to write that letter.