Question:
Will my age be a factor in getting approved for surgery?

I have been seriously looking into WLS for almost seven months now and I was wondering if anyone has had problems getting approved due to their age. I am only 21 years old, but have had a weight problem my whole life. I am currently 300 pounds and need some support.    — [Anonymous] (posted on February 19, 2000)

February 18, 2000
My Doctor will do the wls at as young as 15, if you qualify. I would advise you to do this young. It is a big life style change but this is a great tool. I wish that I would have done it years ago. Dana Estrada [email protected] Oxnard, Ca,
   — DanaDee1969

February 19, 2000
I have heard of people as young as 16 having this surgery, I dont believe your age is a factor. I myself am only 26!
   — cristy P.

February 19, 2000
My surgeons criteria for age is from 20 to 60, Go for it!!!!
   — Jeanie W.

February 19, 2000
Age should not be a factor. I know of a woman who is 18 and just had it done. Good Luck to you.
   — Tina F.

February 19, 2000
I am 22 yrs old and just had WLS on 1/25/00. You should have no problem getting WLS. E-mail me if you need more info. [email protected]
   — Kari G.

February 19, 2000
I don't think that age will play any part in qualifying for this surgery. I checked into having this surgery when I was 18, but "I" decided I was too young and hadn't tried enough on my own. All that got me was another 10 years of my life down the tubes. I recently had the open RNY and have lost 34+ in 5 weeks. Go for it girl. You have nothing to lose but the weight.
   — Anne C.

February 20, 2000
Go For It Girl!! I am 42 and wish I had done this when I was younger. The only problem that you may see would be your insurance provider. I have BC/BS and I know one of their requirements is that you have successfully tried for 3 years to use other methods for weight loss and have it documented. You may only have just begun the weight loss process being you are so young..I know when I was that age dieting was something I didn't care about. If your insurance requires it..it might take you time to produce documentation. GOOD LUCK!!
   — Lauren J.

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