Question:
Need a doctor who does Lap Band on BMI of 34!!!

I have researched this alot and have come to this decision to have lap band.I live in NW Ohio and trying to find a doctor who does the Lap Band. I have a 34.2 BMI. I've failed at 10+ different diet programs. Will be paying cash. Don't really want to go to Mexico, any suggestions. Traveling back and forth for adjustments would be too difficult. so want to stay within the state of ohio. Please help    — hlburns65 (posted on May 7, 2008)

May 7, 2008
try cleveland clinics dr philip schauer. your BMI is just marginal for most WLS. do you stretch when getting your height measured? most do, in pre op testing thats not a good idea
   — bob-haller

May 7, 2008
Starrt by Printing from this site the 73 Surgeons that have registered with the site. Go to the top on the left hand side of the page and it says Find A: followed by "Bariatric Surgeon" and click on "Bariatric Surgeon" . That will give you testomonials and names of people that ypu can communicate with on this site to get further information on their experence with the doctor as well as locations and phone numbers. Just stell them the facs when you call and go from there. I would give them your rounded BMI of 35 and just tell them you are a failure at diets and despertly need help. My doctor in Florida will do it on people in your range when he knows for sure that you are committted to the lifestyle, as he is not in it for the cash but the success with his patients. Best of success to you.
   — William (Bill) wmil

May 7, 2008
Be sure to go to a center of excellence .They have to meet an set of standards .My first search was the center then the doctor.Good luck on the start of the journey .
   — stanwalker

May 7, 2008
Yes, try Synchrony Health. the office is in West Chester, OH. I was banded there by Dr Brad Watkins.
   — melsabels

May 7, 2008
I gained weight to exceed the 35 minimum BMI for this surgery. Even at 35 you have to have co-morbidities like diabetes, sleep apnea, gerd etc. Even Mexico will not touch anyone under 35. Cleveland Clinic will not even speak to you. There is a fill doc in Cleveland who will do fills from any surgery. Mexico lap band is $8K including air, 4 nights in a wonderful hospital and 4 day recovery at a resort. It's a shame you will have to gain weight to lose weight but that is the reality today.
   — jannmyers

May 8, 2008
There are a number of great Dr's on this site and if you can't find one close to you call the nearest one to you.....they may be able to tell you of one in your area.....you can also call you local hospitals and ask if they do WLS and who are the Dr's that have priviliges there. Pam / Ft Worth Bandster Bites Silverware [email protected]
   — pphillips4720aol.com