BMI 32 - would I be eligible?

[RaniL]

I have had a long 12 year history with bands x2. Vomiting, no sweet spot, weight loss and weight gain which is unstoppable. The only way I ever lost weight with the band was from vomiting. Have had >40 adjustments, port replacement, band replacement, oesophageal ulceration, severe reflux, nighttime vomiting/regurgitation. Basically it has not been successful.

So now my BMI is around 31/32 and I am gaining weight. The only reason I haven't gained more is by white knuckling and clinging on as hard as I can but I feel I am losing this battle. I have been plagued with weight issues since a child. I have been on every diet known to mankind, Ive spent thousands and I have no peace in regard to my weight. I have a strong family history of heart disease, diabetes and I have asthma and a bad back and knee.

I would like to arrange a consult in Sydney with a surgeon (Either Talbot or OClinic) but wonder if I would be eligible. Anyone else out there who is moderately obese and has been approved by a surgeon.

My absolute fear is that I continue to gain weight, develop diabetes, become severe obese and the have to have the surgery when it is more risky at a higher weight.

[blessedahf]

I'd go for a sleeve. I've known several band to sleeve individuals who couldn't be happier. I've actually known no one who was happy with the band. Not sure why they still perform this procedure. But nonetheless, you can self-pay for the sleeve in MX and other places I'm sure if you can't get approved thru insurance. MX doesn't have a minimum BMI requirement. I guess they figure its your body, they'll take your money if you want the surgery lol. But seriously, I think you'd be very happy with the sleeve. I've had ZERO complications. My mom's had it, ZERO complications. And my husband is headed to Mexico March 1st to have his done. Search it out. You should at least consider it. Good luck!

[RaniL]

Thanks blessedahf.... I just feel I won't be taken seriously when I know how hard my struggle has been for so many years. BTW I live in Australia now but spent a year living in Decatur...loved it (AND SOOOOOO different from Australia!!)

[blessedahf]

I think youll have a better chance of being taken seriously if your a selfpay patient. But with insurance you may hit a lot of bumps. Keep us updated!!

[RaniL]

Im not concerned with my insurance - In Australia our insurance companies are not as tricky as in the US - if a surgeon verifies it as necessary then the health insurance will also most likely. I just wondered if surgeons maintain a strict BMI criteria .

[AngelNP]

If you're going to be in Mexico, I believe you need to be 30 BMI or above. Hope that helps.

[AngelNP]

I was 33 BMI and was sleeved in TJ, Mexico on December 7th!

[SoNotABarbie]

If you have a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure etc....i would think that would be a good reason to get sleeved...and all the complications you had from the ban....so let us know how you do hon......we will be here for you

[RaniL]

thanks....gallbladder out in two days then contact surgeon (2 hours flight away) to request phone/skype consult....fingers crossed!

[becca72]

I also think your history would help your case. Good luck and keep us posted

[Truebody]

I'm based in Perth and have a BMI of 38. I'm interested to see what you learn from other Aussies and their experience in seeking help. Which one are you in the pic - left or right?

[RaniL]

Im on the left - the girl on the right is my partner who is amazing and awesome and slim and fit as a WHIPPET!!

My BMI is actually 34.5. I had my lap band removed 3 weeks ago. I have apt with surgeons in Vic and NSW. I initially emailed a surgeon in NSW and they called back and said NO as the risks of surgery outweighed the risks of having a BMI of 33. I have started putting on weight already without the band vomiting. Strangely it is almost in my best interest to gain as much as possible before the surgeon apt which will make it more likely that he will perform the surgery. But that is stupid..so I am trying to just eat as 'normally' (whatever that is) as possible and be healthy. I have no idea what I will do if I don't get this surgery..I really don't think I have enough energy nor resolve to diet again let alone keep it off.
I was under the impression that most surgeons would consider the VSG with a BMI of 35 is comorbidities exist (e.g. sleep apnoea, diabetes)

[AngelNP]

In the United States for insurance to cover, you need to have a BMI of 35 with comorbidities. However, if you have below 35 and 30 or above, you can go to Mexico to have it done.

[niamh]

I would have thought though that any surgeon would take into account the fact that your lower BMI is due in good part to being banded. What's your highest BMI been?

[*Jules*]

Hi Ranil
I am new here on the forum, and was just reading your thread. My bmi is 31, and I am hopefully getting the procedure done in Rockhampton Qld by Dr Andrew Russell at the mater. I see him next Tuesday, and flyng up for it (I am 3 hours south of there) My bmi is apparently too low, but as I have MS and a heart complication, my heart surgeon has asked me to see about getting this done, as I have limited mobility, and he wants me to try to get to 55kgs or less, as my heart isnt coping. I too have had to gain weight, from 74kgs to 80kgs for the surgery. I am hoping it is enough. I am also curious if I will actually lose weight because my bmi isnt really in the category of way over weight. I dont want to drop dead from carrying the extra weight because my heart surgeon says if I dont do something now, thats whats going to happen. I have high cholesterol as well, and a lot of allergies, such as seafood, iodine, lactose, eggs ect, so dont know how I will go with the high protein if I do get the surgery! PLUS I hate meat!!! Have you managed to find a surgeon? I have people telling me not to go to this one as they say he is just a "country" doctor :S But it is hard fr me to get back and forth to major cities! Please let me know ow your going! Or if you have had the surgery done as well. Wishing you good luck! Look forwards to a reply!