LiLi

I was considering the sleeve and also have a relatively low BMI of 32. I was about three weeks away from surgery when I had a realization of what I would be doing to my body. I know an overwhelming majority of people have no problems at all, but what if I was the "1" who did. With a BMI that isn't totally out of control, I have decided to commit to Weight Watchers and exercise. I'm giving myself a year to turn this weight thing around. If I can't do it, then I'll reconsider surgery. If I am successful without surgery, we're planning on taking the family to Hawaii for a fabulous vacation with the money I would have spent on surgery. I'm way more excited and committed and motivated to succeed! Good luck to you with whatever decision you make. You have to do what's right for you. I'm still on the forum because I know surgery is still an option -- just one I hope to avoid.

That's awesome! Really does sound like this is meant to be for you. Best of luck on your journey.

I don't even have a surgery date yet -- probably at least 2-3 weeks out -- and I'm already nervous and anxious. It's always on my mind. Can't focus on anything else. I'll be glad to "get'r done". Best of luck with your surgery. I'll be praying for you.

Good Luck! Let us know how everything goes. I'm 62 and hope to get sleeved in the next few months.

Hi everybody. I just turned 66 in July and have completed all my pre-surgical tests and gotten insurance approval for the sleeve. I had failed a cardiac stress test, but had an angiogram yesterday that found no problems whatsoever. The cardiologist had also done the Holder test and an echo so the heart and circulation is surprisingly well for someone 100 pounds overweight with high BP, diabetes and a family history of heart problems.

Am hoping for an October sleeve. I figure my loss will be slower than my younger counterparts and, yeah, I'll have a lot of sag, but I will love living in Onederland!

I found something new at our costco (Rockwall, Texas). They're called Naked Chicked Nuggets. Shaped like MacDonalds chicken nuggets, but no breading and they are grilled, not fried. They are delicious. My 9 year old granddaughter loved them, too.

My surgeon charges $11,000 for everything except pre surgery tests. Surgeon has my PCP order labs and tests so they'll be covered by insurance. I haven't been sleeved yet, so I don't know if any surprise charges might show up. Good luck to your mom.

Wow! I'm so happy you're doing so well. I agree with the others that you have a true flair fo writing. I couldn't wait to read the next post. I hope your recovery continues to go well.

I did have a flare up after surgery. The doc said it was probably because of being dehydrated due to not being able to drink anything before the surgery and not being able to drink liquids too fast. also it is because the uric acid is also released in the fat cells when you lose weight. I talked to a gentlemen who also had ghout and he said he had one flare up after surgery and then it was gone forever! To me it is worth it. To be able to not be in pain again is great. Have you tried allupurinol it is a generic prescription drug it might be cheaper for you. I would have to say this is the best decision I have made. Good luck to you sweetie!

Yeah, I tried allupurinol. Had a really bad reaction to it. My PCP does NOT approve of the surgery, but will work with me throughout the process. He has a plan to wean me off Uloric so there's not a sudden jump in uric acid. Also might treat any flares with colccicine. My dad used the colccicine to treat his gout.

You just made my day! I have gout as well and have been sitting on the fence as to whether or not to get the surgery. I think you just pushed me a little over to the "other side"! Did you have any problems with flares post op? That really worries me. I get it in my toes and feet making walking impossible. I'd be so happy to get off Uloric. I've been paying $135 per month, but will go up to $160 when their discount program ends. I'm so happy for you and your success!

Have you talked to your surgeon? Be sure to let him know your specific situation and the need to stay hydrated. Good luck to both of you!

The only thing you cheated was an early death! You go girl! Congratulations on your progress -- you're already a winner!

I live near Dallas and am planning on getting sleeved by Dr. Daryl Stewart. He's located in Denton. I'm self pay also. Figure I can spend $$ now for surgery, or spend it later on healthcare and medicines. At 62, things aren't going to get better if I don't get this done.

Best wishes for a smooth recovery!

My grandmother had about 70% of stomach removed (cancer) and lived another 50 years beyond that. I really don't remember her having any real issues with eating. That has been the one reassurance that sticks with me as I inch closer toward having the procedure done.

Lovevsg- that is great to hear. Everyone has been telling me the same thing about not being big enough to have this done. So I woke up this morning to go to Dallas, my surgery is Tuesday. The office informed me that my surgeon is no longer with that practice. They said to still come and another surgeon is going to do it for me. I'm a little worried now. I'm hoping after they sleeve me I will be as happy as you. And to the post who is unsure I'm right with ya. You just need to pray and make a decision. You need to write down all the pros and cons of having the surgery. I guarantee the pros will outweigh the cons.good luck with your decision:)

Jmiller - I live just outside of Dallas, so if you need anything, message me and I'll be glad to help. Good luck with your surgery. Lili.

Hi, I am 5 months post-op and I started with a bmi of 33 and was told by everyone I wasn't big enough for surgery. I tried to go through the insurance but they required a higher bmi. It could be less than 40 but that's if you have at least two co-morbities and fortunately I had none. I did have shortness of breath and knee pain and felt depressed about my weight. Instead I went to Dr Ramos Kelly in Mexico and it was the best decision I made. I'm now 120 lbs which is lower than my goal which I reached at 4 months. I'm still loosing weight but I'm eating more calories because I don't want to be a stick figure. Lol. I didn't have family support since they thought mexico was a bad choice. My hubby supported and went with me and now that I'm skinny and my surgery and recover went great everyone changed their mind and even asking for info. My neighbor went last week after seeing my sucess she was inspired and she also had a low bmi.

Thank you all for sharing your stories. at 32 BMI, I keep having serious doubts about going through with this. My PCP agreed to work with me through the process (even though he does not recommend it), surgeon has agreed to do the procedure, labs have been ordered. Still waiting to get appointment time for Ultrasound of my belly and Upper GI test of some kind. They might be able to do the surgery this month. UGH. I hate being so indecisive. Will I ever really enjoy food again if I get this done? Will I be able to live life to its fullest if I don't get this done. My mind has been reeling back and forth for the last 3-4 weeks! Help. While my BMI is relatively low at 32, an extra 50 lbs on a 5'1 frame is a lot.

Hi I was wondering if anyone new anyone that has had a sleeve done with a BMI of 31? I have struggled 12 years on and off diets and I have come to the conclusion this is my only way to get to a healthier lifestyle.

My BMI is 32 and I'm having the same struggles. Was a Phen-fen success story in the 90's, but eventually gained it all back. I have an appointment with a surgeon this week. Been doing lots of praying and researching. Hopefully have some answers soon. Good luck to you. Let us know how you progress on your journey.