Question:
Has anyone with cellulitis and phlebitis in the legs been approved for WLS?

My father is 54 years old and weighs approximately 550 - 600 pounds. He has been diagnosed with cellulitis and phlebitis in his legs and I am concerned about him having major complications post-op. I am also concerned about him being too big for surgery. Does anyone have any info that may help me when speaking to his surgeon?    — Christie S. (posted on December 10, 2001)

December 10, 2001
Cellulitis is the inflammation of the cells. It is an acute spreading infection of the dermis and subcutaneous tissues and is considered a common infection. This can be treated with oral anti-biotics and if his doctor starts him out on the meds, he should have it cleared up long before surgery is ever done. The Phlebitis is inflammation of a vein and can be treated with blood thinners if severe enough. Even though there is the chance of a blood clot forming at any time, I have know a couple of people who have had the surgery who were diagnosed with phlebitis. Their surgeons just made sure they had adequate blood thinners after the surgery to keep clots from forming. Both did really well with their surgeries and had no problems... Just make sure the surgeon is aware of all his medical problems so they can plan what will need to be done for him. I don't think your dad is too heavy for the surgery. I have talked to several men who weighed anywhere from 350 - 600 pounds that had the surgery done and are doing very well! One man weigh close to 500 and now 8 months later weigh close to 280. Good luck!
   — Kellie Jo B.

December 11, 2001
I have cellulitis in my leg. It got infected several times. It was pretty bad. I was on a central IV line for a few weeks. My right thigh is much larger than my left. I was approved for surgery with the condition. In fact, the DR. said that losing weight was the best thing I could do for it. (110 pounds less, I am still on and off oral antibiotics!) I hope to deal with this with a plastic surgeon sometime in the future. Good luck!!!
   — Gail A.