So this is my first thread. I have been considering doing lap band for a few months now. I finally took the first step and made a doctors appointment. All costs will be paid out of pocket. I think my biggest worry is that I am not "fat" enough. I have been yo yo dieting since I turned 18. I was always a chubby kid. With heart disease that runs in my family and diabetes as well as high blood pressure I am susceptible to getting very sick early on as I age. I am now 25 years old I am 5 foot 7 and I weigh 215 pounds. My doctors appointment is in two weeks. I am nervous I will get declined. Is there any advice you guys can give me? Thank you all would be appreciated.

All cost will be paid out of pocket because you don't have insurance? Your BMI is kinda low for surgery. Typically the "rule" is greater than 40 or greater than 35 with comorbidities. But all drs are different. Certainly wont hurt to talk to them. Good luck!

This is directly from the Lap Band site and their BMI recommendations:

Do I Qualify for Lap-Band Surgery?

Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is a useful indicator of whether or not you are a good candidate for LAP-BAND Surgery. In general, weight loss surgery and the LAP-BAND procedure may be a suitable approach if your BMI is over 40. If your BMI is less than 40 but at least 30 and you have one or more obesity related health conditions, LAP-BAND Surgery may still be an appropriate option.

Best wishes to you!

My insurance doesn't cover this unfortunately. Ism fortunate enough to have that money put away and I'm able to out right pay it. I have read doctors only taking people with 35-40 BMI or some doctors that take 30 and up. I am 33 BMI so it's hard to tell where I stand. I would love to talk to someone who was where I am at and has done the surgery already.

Thank you Mis73. That's a good starting point to go from. My grand pop died at 45 from a heart attack related to obesity. My aunt has a heart attack at 43 from obesity and had open heart surgery. My mom has had two massive heart attacks by 42 from obesity and both sides, my mom and dad are diabetic. I feel like if I don't take control now I'm staring at the barrel of a pistol. I've tried so many diets and I actually loose weight but it comes right back. I have a hard time sticking with it. Food is an addiction. I can never feel full enough.

At your height and weight you should be approved. Good luck!

I hope so journey4me. My appointment isn't for 13 more days and I'm already anxious!