After endless research on the lap band, I decided it wasn't for me, and that the sleeve might be a better option, since I have a BMI well under 40 and will have to pay out of pocket anyway.

I'm 24, 5'6" and weigh about 200 lbs. I have tried every diet and exercise plan in existence, and never had long-term, or even very good results with anything. Everyone in my family is obese, and I see what it has done to the relationships and the quality of life of the generation before mine.

I already have asthma, difficulty sleeping, can't lie flat, shortness of breath, back, neck, ankle and hip pain, high blood pressure and GERD. I know that my health will continue to deteriorate if I don't do something now. I also know that without a drastic change in my life, I will never have the things that I truly want. I'll never be able to adopt children and raise them, to run a marathon, swim a lap, or even take the stairs.

I know that I can diet and exercise to get healthy and lose weight, but I need help and a tool to do it. Enter the sleeve!

Is anyone else in my boat with "only" 65-70 lbs to lose? Have you found difficulty finding a surgeon even paying for the procedure yourself?

Hello NursyGirl!

I also began thinking I wanted the lapband and then moved to the sleeve. I am so very happy with my decision.

I started with a bmi of 33, 5'4" and 193. So similiar to you. I am getting close to 30 pounds lost! It has been very easy. Wish I would have known about this sooner! I have some of the same issues as you - sleep apnea, back problems ....

This is an amazing tool ~ the mental has been the hardest for me. I still want the food. Hopefully it will slowly go away : )

I went to Mexico after reading alot about it and talking with a gal locally who had the surgery in Mx a year ago. She went from a size 22 to a 6/8 in a year! It would have cost 5x as much at a clinic or hospital here. My insurance would probably not have covered it and I didn't want to go thru their 1 year program first and then get a no. I could have found a local surgeon if I wanted to spend the $25k cash.

It takes a little adjustment but overall is easy. Good luck!

Would you recommend your surgeon, or know of any other awesome surgeons and facilities in Mexico? I've been researching Dr. Alvarez and have heard good things about him

Would you recommend your surgeon, or know of any other awesome surgeons and facilities in Mexico? I've been researching Dr. Alvarez and have heard good things about him

As you read different threads on this site, you will see that most people are quite passionate about the surgeon they used. There are also those who are very passionately against some doctors. Read as much as you can; get reports from those who have personal experiences; and then make the decision that is best for you. I will give you a recount of my experience in a private message. I was able to talk to a gal who lived in my area who had the surgery a year ago in Mexico. She used a different doctor than I did but also had a great experience.

Good Luck with you research!

Not in my twenties but i too been looking into dr.alvarez ... im 18 5'4 and weigh 255 struggled with weight my whole life and im ready for change i have no health insurance do you guys think i would need health insurance just in case if anything happens post op or for follow up although i was told i wouldnt need follow ups.

Welcome to the site, I am 33 and my bmi is about 32 I also want to lose about sixty pounds. I am heading to Mexico in five days do surgery. After a bunch of research and one change in doctors lol. I will happily and objectively try to report my doctor and the facility after I get back. Just keep researching and go with your gut lol no pun intended.

I'm 29 and my bmi is 34. I'd love to get down to 135, this is my goal weight. Surgery is scheduled in 3 weeks. My 30's are going to be the best years of my life!!!

Dr Kelly and Garcia in Tijuana, Mexico are said to be good