SHOULD I HAVE SURGERY???

I am 36 5'1" 296lbs. I'm in the process of getting approved for a breast reduction (yeah a double whammy!) I have no medical problems related to my weight. My heaviest issue for me are my boobs. At the same time I'm so fat every where else too. I don't know what to do. My ins. May think I'm some type of lazy chick if I ask to be approved for both. Your response is well welcomed. Sam

I'm in the same boat, minus the breast reduction. lol I don't know what to do either. Sorry, this didnt help much but let me know what you decide.

Marie, I'm having such a tough time making the right choice. I just hate being in this shell and I'm ready to get out now!!!! Wth the rate that I gain weight I'm probably over 300.

Hello, You are only 36....you have no medical problems now...but at the weight you posted....you will. How is your family history??? That would be a sure fire sign to find out if surgery is right for you. My opinion is yes, go for it. Your height and weight is gonna cause wear and tear on your knees, joints, back.....its all related. I am 5 inches taller than you and had WLS done at 244 lbs. This may sound harsh, but its not just your boobs that has caused your weight to be where it is. Even if your boobs were 100 lbs -(can't be) 196 is still a dangerous weight for 5'1". Are you married? Kids? What is your profession? There are so many other things to keep in mind in the decision to have WLS. Good Luck and keep us posted!!!

Barbara, thank you. I just finished looking in the mirror wearing my bra and panties. I was trying to imagine myself with smaller boobs. i would still have a problem. I'm gonna seek a Surgeon and at least get more info. I appreciate you. I'll keep you posted.

Just a suggestion -- if you decide to get WLS, then wait on the breast reduction approval. After you lose weight, your breasts will deflate a bit and definately sag and you may need a breast lift. It will much much easier to get insurance approval for a breast reduction, rather than a lift. However, once you get insurance approval for a breast reduction, the lift can be done at the same time. Insurance usually will not approve a breast lift or augmentation, but will approve a reduction if you can show medical necessity. Nannette

Hi Samantha! You should definitely consider surgery...your BMI qualifies with no medical issues. I am 52, just had surgery and I am sorry I didn't have it years ago! I have had medical problems for 17 years. don't let that happen to you. I agree that I woul put off the breast reduction till after you lose your weight...you may not even need it at that point, maybe just a lift! You are in Linden...may I suggest that you attend Dr. Jean-Baptiste's terrific info session/support group in Plainfield tomorrow evening???? It beings at 5:30 and it is in the Bariatric Center on Randolph Road, adjacent to Muhlenberg Hospital. You can call over there. 908-226-4200 and get directions. Attending support group meetings is so important. Dr. J-B will give you a lengthy consultation too and he takes all insurance. You will be impressed when you come to the support group, it is a very unique one. You will see people of all weights, heights, men and women, young and old who have had or are considering surgery. You will be amazed and motivated! I am on my 7th day post op and I feel wonderful!!!!! Write back if u want. Good luck whatever you do.

You are 52!!!!!!!!!!?????? really?? yeah, okay i was thinking that you were in your late thirties!!!

Samantha~ I would probably want to get the weight issue settled first and then worry about your boobs. They will shrink during the weight loss process, and then you can get them fixed. I never had the "big boob" problem, but I think the weight will cause you health problems (more than a sore back) much bigger than your breasts ever will. Why not meet with your primary care physician and toss around both ideas with him, see what he thinks takes priority? Good luck with your journey, whatever you decide. Michelle Brennan

Oh and I forgot to add: "you have boobs?....I am jealous!!!!!" (implants always have sounded good to me.....funny how that works, isn't it?)