Hey Crimson, I'm 19, 316 lbs, and pre-op. My surgery was cancelled twice, the first time because of my age, the second time because of a switch in depression medication. Here is what I recommend: - Do as much research you can on WLS - Discuss it with your parents - Speak to your doctor - Speak to a nutritionist (you will need to work with a nutritionist if you have WLS) - Find a therapist you feel comfortable with, see her for a long time, and have her write a recommendation to your surgeon saying that you understand how the decision you are making will change your life, and you are prepared to make that decision. - Go to WLS group meetings. See people who have had it done, get positive support from people who have been in your situation. - Don't forget that it is ultimately your decision. Don't let your family or friends choose for you, it is your body, your mind, and your life. Take care. Marisa

Hey All Im Meagan, 19 from Texas....I have decided against the surgery for now for personal reasons....that is the reason i stay away from this board most of the time...

oh wow! it is soo incredibly nice. I go about everyday and work out. Feel free to IM me on aim if you wish. TexasGem26

you are?? WOW! We are like 5 minutes away from each other...that is really awesome!

hey theres a procedure where you can lose more weight then with an rny but have no dumping syndrome.its called the duodenal switch. im getting it. ill tell you the benefits verses the rny. you lose more weight with the ds, you have less chance of bounce back weight with the ds, you have no dumping syndrome. and with this procedure you can eat the most with this procedure out of all the weight loss procedures out therfe.i think its a good choice. i live in mn. im getting the duodenal switch at the u of m hospital. i have one of the best surgeons in the u.s. its something to think about. and i also own 2 online teen weight loss surgery groups. if youd like to join email me at [email protected] meghan