Hi all. My name is Shawnee and I'm what is considered a low BMI candidate for the surgery. I'm 5'4" and 185 pounds. My doctor has agreed to do it and is actually submitting a study on Low BMI banding this month. Because my BMI is 32 my insurance company would not cover the surgery so I'm paying outta pocket and it's not cheap. I know that I probably wont see the dramatic and immediate results that some heavier people experience, but I want to make sure I optimize my loss and do it right.

I'm hoping others can give me advice, tips, pitfalls that I should avoid, etc.

I'm having the surgery this monday December 6th and noon in Beverly Hills. I'm excited and nervous at the same time

Hi Shawnee,

I was banded at a BMI of 35 and despite being of a low-ish BMI, my weight loss was pretty steady and consistent. I didn't expect for my loss to be any slower than anyone else's so worked hard (food-wise and exercise-wise) to ensure that I lost between 7 - 10lbs a month.

You have the advantage over someone with a much higher BMI in that starting on exercise will likely not be as hard on your body, esp your joints. So my suggestion would be to get to a routine of exercising as soon as you are able, and make sure you up the intensity of your work-out as you get fitter. Other than that, eat well, get your fills regularly and follow the rules.

Good luck with your surgery!