SugarBomb

I am a 45-year-old female. Weight has been an issue for me as long as I can remember, but there have been "slender times" in my life, some of them long-lasting. However, I'm to the point in my life that I need a boost to help me back on the path to weight loss. Since my first pregnancy at age 31, my weight has been steadily climbing upward. I'm 5'8" and now weigh a 365 pounds. I kept telling myself I could lose it on my own, but that hasn't happened. About four years ago, I seriously considered the duodenal switch, but some of the horror stories scared me away, including my sister's good friend who really regrets having the surgery.

On the other hand, I have a close friend who underwent the procedure without any major complications. But that doesn't change my major problem with the idea of malabsorbing nutrients. Even with the required injections, I can't help but to think that it will have a detrimental effect on my health years down the road.

Then the gastric sleeve became available. A couple of years ago, a different friend of mine had it done. She has been happy with it so far. I'm currently pursuing it as a viable option, running through the insurance obstacle course right now. Considering my age, and the large amount I need to lose, I'm wondering if I'm a good candidate for the sleeve. If not, I'm not sure what I will decide to do, if anything.

Update July 2014: Insurance has approved the surgery.