Question:
I am interested in having by-pass surgery.

I have had two PCPs say no to a referral. My BMI is 35 at this time I don't have anyother major health problems. I have tried every diet known to man kind. I went to Johns Hopkins weight center and they want you to eat 1200 calories a day. I cant do it I was starving. Some see the surgery as a cop out. I have watch programs on Gastric by-pass and think it is for me. How do I convince a PCP? Please help. I am so depressed.    — carolyn D. (posted on August 20, 2002)

August 20, 2002
Your a little low for surgery. You could always self pay I am certain a surgeon can be found. You might look into the lap band, there was talk awhile ago it might be used for cases like this.Very low risk and reversible. I feel for you, have you seen a surgeon or attended a local support group meeting and asked this question. I guess your in NY with your private profile.
   — bob-haller

August 20, 2002
Gain enough weight to put your BMI above 40? 35 is a little low-the usual rule is a bmi of over 40 or just under 40 with co-morbidities...do you have back or knee problems from your weight? Aggravated asthma? Anything?
   — Cindy R.

August 20, 2002
Sorry folks, but I have to disagree!! When I started my WLS journey my BMI was only 35 with sleep apnea being my only comorbid. It all depends on your insurance. Aetna states very clear that it will cover gastric bypass with a BMI of 40+ with no comorbids or a BMI of 35+ with a serious comorbid. I am now 10 months post and already at goal. I have lost 96 pounds. I am 5'7" and started at 230, I am now 134. My PCP also refused to refer me to a surgeon so I changed PCP's. My surgeons office gave me the name of a WLS friendly PCP. I say go for it!!!
   — skymaxjr

August 20, 2002
Carolyn, I had to gain about 10 pounds. I ate and ate, until I thought I couldn't eat anymore and got to my 40 bmi. I also know a lady, (I found this out afterwards) that put those exercise weights in her bra when she got weighed LOL (p.s. she still got denied). I knew this surgery was for me, and would take drastic measures if I knew I needed them! -103# Good Luck!
   — Sherry C.

December 16, 2008
I felt the same way until my aunt explained to me that the surgery is not an answer, but a tool. It is a way to help you lose some of the weight, but you still have to get to the root of the problem that causes you to over eat. My sister has the lap band surgey done in Houston and she has been my line of support. She says that the surgery helped her to lose a lot of weight, but she still had to learn to eat right, exercise and deal with her every day problems. She said having the surgery has freed her to go on with her in a thinner body. It makes her feel good that she can cross her legs! I want to have this surgery and I am blessed that I was approved this year. I have been praying every step of the way and I can't wait to start my classes in February. My family and church members support me as well, so if you can find those who support you, do that. Don't worry about what others say; only you know if the surgery is right for you. I am doing it for the sake of my son who is only 2 1/2. I had him at an older age in life and I want to be here to watch and help him grow. I want to be able to run with him and play with him. It hurts me when he watches me have to rest while going up a flight of stairs. He is a precious boy and he deserves a healthy mom. ~Kimme~
   — kimme2008