Question:
How do I determine my goal weight?

The surgeon who performed my RNY back in Feb. 1999 when I weighed 314 lbs. at 5'4 1/2" tall (I'm 5'4" now. Go figure) is retired, and I'd like to know what my goal weight should be. I currently hover around 150 and wear a size 6. I know I should be happy where I am, but I hear a lot of talk about people's goal weights. I have a new doctor, but I'm not scheduled to see him for a while. How do I determine on my own what my goal weight should be. And, I've already heard that formal -- 5' = 100 lbs. and 5 lbs. for ever inch taller you are over that -- but I know that a weight of 125 is NOT for me.    — Mavis C. (posted on April 20, 2002)

April 20, 2002
http://www.halls.md/ideal-weight/body.htm try this, it has several different ways of calculating what is considered ideal taking into account your age and gender
   — Cory F.

April 20, 2002
I'm exactly your height and the schedule says somewhere between 118 and 135 is good. I weigh 113 now and look awful. I'm wayyyy too thin. I looked great at 140 and I am sure that you look great now. Being in a size 6 should be great for you and I honestly don't think you want to lose anymore. Just my opinion. Good luck. Barb
   — Barbara H.

April 20, 2002
Hi, Mavis. My doctor said to start at 100 and then add five pounds for every inch over 5' you are. So if you're 5'4 1/2, your goal weight should probably be between 120-125. Also, if you have a large or extra-large bone structure, you should add another 10 lbs.
   — Terissa R.

April 21, 2002
I suggest looking into a bodyfat scale. Most are fairly acurate and then check to see for age and height what % you should be. Most women fall in 16% to 32% as a healthy spot. A lot also depends on if you are more muscular. Muscle ways more than fat but takes up less room so you might have a higher weight but be at a great size and size 6 sounds like you are doing a whole bunch of things right!!! congrats
   — Adriane T.