Question:
how much?

how over weight must i be to be a canidate. i'm 215 and 5'6". i am i crazy for considering. i have tried all else.    — coopera81 (posted on December 20, 2008)

December 20, 2008
You would need to find out what your BMI is. Do you have any co-morbids (diseases because of your obesity) like diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea or chronic pain in your back, knees, or hips, etc? No one is ever considered crazy for wanting to be healthy and happy. I suggest you check it out, go to a seminar and/or support group meeting, ask questions, do your research and find out. Best of luck, Dawn Vickers, RN, BLC,CLC
   — DawnVic

December 20, 2008
I think you are probably too thin; I know you have tried everything else but start on the six month system with a dietician and doctor and see what happens. I had RNY and although it was necessary, it is not very fun. Best to you.
   — nofrogs29

December 20, 2008
No you are not crazy; why would anyone think you are crazy to want to be healthier and happier. Like the RN, Dawn, find out first if you have comorbidities(diabetes, metabolic syndrome)and then do research on the surgery. Check with your own doctor to see what he/she thinks about your decision. vinnigirl, RN retired
   — vinnigirl

December 20, 2008
I don't know whether or not the criteria has changed. I'm 9 years post-op, and at that time the criteria was generally thought to be 40 BMI or 30 BMI with co-morbidities.
   — jjames-thomas

December 20, 2008
Hey I am also 5'6'' and weighed almost the same when I started, and they told me I was not a candidate (I was 220). So I actually gained weight (I went up to 240) and then I was allowed to be approved. I know gaining weight is the last thing you feel like doing, but I have tried everything and had always been up and down on the scale all my life, so I was desperate. And it all worked out for the good, I had my surgery on December 10th and I am now down to 196. I also did some other things too, if you want to talk just email me and I will be happy to answer any questions you might have. Good luck!
   — [Deactivated Member]