I've just started thinking about the Lap Band in the past couple of days. I may be wasting my time pursuing this, so I thought I'd ask some big questions here.

I'm 38 and my BMI is 34.1 (according to online calculators). I don't have a insurance, so I would be self-pay. I don't go to the doctor often, but the last time I had blood work I was told I have "prediabetes". That was like 5 years ago. My cholesterol was too high. And at one point I was put on medication for high blood pressure. I don't get this checked regularly in the office either (because they always say it's fine now) but according to the machines in the drug-store or Walmart, it's usually "borderline" or "high".

What kind of requirements does a non-insured person have meet to qualify?

TIA,

MichelleSz

A self-pay bandster really does not need to have any real additional qualifications. It is up to you and your surgeon to decide if you are a candidate physically and psychologically. Your BMI is in the right range. Do you have any other weight-related health problems?

I don't think it is a waste of time.If you can afford it,get it done.

To my knowledge, I have no other medical issues than the prediabetes, and blood pressure issues (thank goodness!). My health is the main reason I want the surgery. I feel like I'm on a downward spiral and the more I diet, the more I gain. This is a preemptive step, in order to help me get control of my eating before I develop full-blown diabetes (if I don't have it already) and heart problems (runs in the family big-time).

I just didn't know if this was something a doctor could or would do for someone without major medical problems.