I have just begun to research this proceedure. I was wondering if anyone knows if vegetarians do well with this? Also, I need to lose 40 pounds and am worried that I will be turned away because I am not actually considered "obese". I am desperate for this surgery and would appreciate any feedback.

Most insurance require that you have a BMI of 40 or greater or a BMI of greater than 35 with 2 comorbidities such as diabetes and sleep apnea. Call your insurance company to see if you qualify.

thanks for replying so fast. I'm not worried about insurance, just whether a surgeon will do the proceedure if I am not considered obese. I certainly feel obese and really need this done, but sometimes the medical profession puts their own limit on who they believe needs proceedures. I am desperate for this to be done but worry all the time that no one will help me. Do you think I will be turned away? I am in Canada and not sure what the rules are here.

Do you kmow what your BMI is? You may have to go to Mexico for the surgery. They do lower BMI patients. Julie

my BMI is 28.32 and I am 40 pounds overweight. The website I have been researching indicatest that they take patients looking to lose as little as 20 pounds so I am going to call that clinic tomorrow and see what they say. I am in awe of everyone here who has had the courage to go ahead with this. You are all so amazing.

robint,

I am not sure you will find an insurance to pay, and maybe not a doctor in the US. I think I have read of others with a lower weight to lose, maybe going to Mexico as someone stated.

I have a bmi of 36 and have about 80lbs to lose. I had to sell it to the surgeon and I was worried my insurance may deny me. I have other health conditions, but not diabetes or high blood pressure, which seems to be the two most significant. But I did get approved and have a band date for June 7. Good luck.

Janine

Thanks, I have read up on a clinic in my area that will do the proceedure for patients that are in need of losing 20 pounds. I am talking to them tomorrow and hope they will help me. If not I will be looking outside of canada for help. I am determined.