Question:
What determines if you have to lose weight in order to have the wls

   — shae7755 (posted on July 24, 2003)

July 24, 2003
It is the surgeon who determines whether or not you need to lose weight prior to surgery. They do it to make the surgery easier by decreasing the fat in the liver. The liver can get in the way during surgery, and by losing weight it is much more flexible and easier to move.
   — [Deactivated Member]

July 24, 2003
In my case, it's my insurance that said I had to lose weight. This has nothing to do with being too heavy for surgery but that to show them that I can commit myself fully to what needs to be done post-op.
   — antiques55

July 24, 2003
Most surgeons dont require this. I suggest you shop around for one thats friendly.
   — bob-haller

July 24, 2003
It is usually the surgeons who require this and it it usually to shrink your liver. Mine puts us on a diet but doesn't specify a number of pounds and is happy if we don't gain before surgery.
   — Delores S.

July 24, 2003
The surgeon. I didn't have to but I was on a tight time schedule because of an insurance change but my surgeon is now asking SOME of his patients to lose and the amount depends on how big they are. He also says it gives him an idea of how serious they are about following the aftercare plan. He makes the decision on an individual basis as he does all his care - before and after the surgery.
   — Patty_Butler

July 25, 2003
It's funny, I was not required to loose weight and yet I did. I was not trying to loose weight just exercizing and trying to get my diabetes under control. I lost 26 pounds in 4 months. I think if I had been told I had to loose weight I would not have been able to. I would have obsessed about it like I do now, 1 year out and struggling. So, I just need to stop trying right? Good luck.
   — Sunny S.

July 25, 2003
For the liver shrinkage.....my doc asked me to lose 5
   — SweetDragonfly