Question:
Ok, I am 5'7 and I weigh around the 255 mark. Would I qualify for surgery?

   — Emily W. (posted on April 12, 2000)

April 12, 2000
What are your co-morbidities (health issues)?
   — Paula G.

April 12, 2000
Hi, I was also 5'7 and weighed 245 lbs. The only thing that I was having trouble with was my triglycerides were out of wack, other than that I didn't have any other problems, I'm happy to say that I was approved for the Open RNY and had it done on Dec 13,1999. I'm down 75lbs so far. So good luck in your search.
   — Kim D.

April 12, 2000
I weigh 250 and am 5ft 6.5in and am scheduled for surgery on May 1. No big co-morbidities except joint problems and high cholesterol. You fit into the ASBS guidelines to qualify you, but it's an individual surgeon's opinion etc. Also, qualifying for the surgery doesn't mean qualifying to have surgery covered by insurance. (As if you didn't already know that LOL!) Good luck!!
   — Cindi W.

April 12, 2000
Hi Emily - I too am 5'7" and weighed 255 before my surgery. I'm now close to 155, almost 100 pounds gone forever! Go for it girl, it's worth it, 100%!!! Good Luck!
   — VickyTaylor

April 12, 2000
What are your co-morbidities? When I had my surgery (a year ago), I was 5'6" tall and weighed 180 and along with my co-morbidities, I qualified hands down. My family history had high heart trouble risk, high diabetes risk and other family members who were also obese. I personally had high blood pressure (on medications) and high cholesterol, had two knee surgeries and had problems climbing stairs or walking any great distances. I went to see the surgeon (I do not have an HMO so I did not have to see a PCP first), he felt I qualified for the surgery and then referred me to the hospital to see the insurance girl there to "gos between" the surgeon and the insurance company. After drafting the appropriate letter stating all my co-morbidities, the insurance company did approve me. So, do your homework and good luck to you. If you want to talk with someone one-on-one, please do not hesitate to contact me directly ([email protected]). I'll be glad to answer you back. Good luck, Judy
   — Judy P.

April 13, 2000
Are you sure that was not 280#?
   — Julie H.

April 14, 2000
Hi Emily, Most physicians use a criteria of 100 lbs over ideal weight or a body mass index of 40 or more. Good luck!
   — Laura P.