Question:
How long after getting pregnant did anyone have to wait before having surgery done?

My friend got pregnant before she could have the surgery done. She is approved for the surgery. Only thing is she isnt due until Dec. or Jan. So, she wanted to post-pone the surgery til 4 or 5 mons. after she had the baby. She called the doctors office to question them about how long after she had the baby could she go ahead with the surgery and have it done. They told her 18 to 24 months is how long she had to wait before she could have the actual surgery done. Is there anyone who has had it done not too long after having a baby? They told her they would not do it cause of health reasons but yet she is going to be heavier than when she started before, she has high blood pressure, asthma, diabetic and others. So, its only putting her at more risk waiting another year or so before having it done. So, any answers would be great! Thanks, Cindy McMurry    — Cindy M. (posted on August 12, 2002)

August 12, 2002
I had my surgery when my son was 8 months old. I started the process of approval and pre-op stuff when he was 4 months old. I had no one question me or mention that this was too soon. In fact, I wish that I would have had the surgery done when he was younger because of the lifting restrictions. He was a big baby and weighed 25 pounds at 8 months. This definitely complicated my recovery. My mom was a wonderful help and I didn't lift him for about 2 months. I've not had any problems. Shelley
   — Shelley.

August 12, 2002
Cindy, There may be a bit of confusion around the question posed to the doctor. The general rule of thumb is to wait 18-24 months before getting pregnant once you have the surgery so your body has time to stabilize from the weight loss. It sounds strange that you would need to wait that long to have surgery after having a baby (they would probably want the hormones to level back out). Perhaps your friend should get a second opinion.
   — Ann S.

August 12, 2002
My baby was 7 months old when I had surgery. It wasn't an issue at all with my surgeon. Good luck to your friend and congratulations on the baby!
   — A. S.

August 13, 2002
I began my approval process at 7 mos pregnant, had my baby mid-May,and am scheduled for surgery August 30 (approx 2.5-3 month wait). It really depends on your OB/GYN doctor giving a clean bill of health to proceed with this surgery as well as the performing surgeon's requirements. Breastfeeding also plays a role in how long you will have to wait. Hope this helps!
   — A F.