Hi, I am Kelly and in Knoxville, TN. I am new to researching the lap band and had a few questions. The first doctor to respond to my questions said my BMI was too low (36.8) and I would not qualify without other health issues. Can anyone tell me what the other issues are? I have chronic lower back pain that is made much worse by my weight (I am 5'4" and 212) This is personal, but it hurts to sit down to use the restroom on most days :-( I do have pretty high cholesteral, but my bood pressure is actually quite good. For the first time, I am not so happy about my general good health. I feel safe here because I think I can say this without being mis-understood. I really have tried almost every weight loss plan out there and they don't work, even with exercsise. I get so tired of people giving such helpful advice as "just don't eat" or "if you would just get off the couch" YIKES!! Any input from you more experienced folks would be really comforting. Hope your holiday was peaceful.

Kelly in TN

If your trying to get insurance to cover the surgery, I don't think you will have much luck with your BMI. If you're willing to pay for it yourself I think most Dr. will do the surgery with your BMI.

I had a 39 bmi and i had acid reflux and diebetes runs in my family. My insurance almost covered it 100%. I was 215 the day of my surgery. It wouldn't hurt to try to get your insurance to cover it.

My bmi was 37.1. I have high BP, high cholesterol, deteorating disc disease, arthritis in the knees and spine.

I just made it. Oy.

Kellyhutch, usually two other health issues ("co-morbidities") will allow a carrier to classify bariatric surgery as medically necessary for those with a BMI of between 35 and 40. Joint or back pain is definitely one of them, especially if it seriuosly curtails your activity. Hypercholestemia (high cholesterol) is another, and if there is any family history of high blood pressure or diabetes that would be considered yet another. Your doctor can help in putting this all together. Good luck!

My BMI is 35 and I was covered. Diabetic,back problems, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.I got turned down the first time. Appeal Appeal Appeal

I am 5'4" and weighed 240 at the consult. My BMI was 40.00. I had arthritis, hx of diabetes, high cholesterol, etc. My primary care dr. wrote the letter for the insurance company just in case the co. gave us any trouble. They payed 4,000 on a 24,000 bill and wrote off the rest. I am very happy with the surgery. I live near Nashville