Question:
Can anyone help me find a Surgeon who takes Low BMI? I will be self pay.

Currently am searching for a doctor who seeks a patient like me: Height 5' 4", about 210 pounds, Co-morbidities include bladder weakness and menstral irregularities. History of blood pressure being LOW, no diabeties, never smoked, no gall bladder trouble, etc. etc. Am willing to undergo open or Laprascopic RNY. Had C-Section over 14 years ago, so am familiar with necessary post-op ambulation, deep breathing, and following regimens. I'm just one of these borderline folks who want this surgery. If you are curious, or desire more information, please contact me at [email protected] Will Travel anywhere in the world for this if necessary.    — First N. (posted on September 4, 2001)

September 4, 2001
Perhaps you should look into the lap band. check out www.bandsters.com I honestly don't really know of any surgeons except for the ones in my area (FL). Whatever you choose, good luck!
   — [Anonymous]

September 4, 2001
If you BMI is truly 20 then you are under even normal weight which is 24-29. At 210 pounds I think that surgery would not be an option for you although I don't know you, or any of the problems you may have. I also don't know how tall you are to properly calculate your BMI. Try a healthier diet, and more excersize. I know that sounds Easy to do, and it is not. I would not be over 400 pounds right now if it were. This surgery is by no means a magic Pill that is going to help you melt off the pounds. you have to change your diet, and excersize routines for the rest of your life. I think Maybe you should really think about what you are considering. the Cost alone(roughly 25,000-50,000 dollars) could better serve you elsewhere rather than paying for an uneeded Surgery. I hope you find peace in whatever it is you choose to do.
   — sbinkerd1

September 4, 2001
Actually, her bmi listed in her profile is wrong. She said she's 5'4'' and 210, that would actually give her a bmi of 36. I've seen people on this site with about the same bmi that have had rny or the band...so, I would check out bandsters ALSO. Don't limit yourself, research it all and decide what's best for you! good luck~
   — Kristin R.

September 4, 2001
Your profile is very misleading, you must have filled out the weight/height information differently from what you listed in your question. That aside, my understanding is that a bmi of 35 or over WITH serious comorbidities will qualify you per NIH standards. This is what most surgeons follow and as a self pay I would think you'd be able to find many surgeons willing to do the surgery. You still need to do the research though. My bmi is now under 35, but I still "feel" fat so I understand your desire to loose weight. On the other hand, if those comorbidities aren't very serious, you may not find the risk is worth it. Think long and hard, research and then you'll be able to find a surgeon.
   — kcanges

September 4, 2001
Surgery should be the last option to use, and only if the co-morbidities, are serious enough to warrent the risks. You need to weight the risks of surgery vs the 60 or so pounds you need to lose. I feel for you though, dieting is difficult and success is often short lived.
   — [Anonymous]

June 3, 2002
I ran into the same problem with a low BMI of 35. I found a surgeon in France who will do it. I.m scheduled for Auagust 28th in Lyon. Email me at [email protected] if you have more questions.
   — Suzanne M.