Ok everyone I have a question. I have a BMI of 40.8 and im getting close to my first appt with my surgeon. Everyone I speak to is telling me I don't look like I need the surgery. They say I don't look big enough even I tell them I hide it by wearing big clothes. My question is, is it possible for the surgeon to refuse to do the surgery even though I meet the requirements of my insurance? Im terrified he'll think the same as everyone else...

Your surgeon is a professional, and is basing their decision on facts, not opinions. If you need the surgery, they will qualify you on your need (BMI, co-morbidities....). My BMI was lower than yours, no problem. But I had many co-morbidities, surgery was essential for me. Good luck to you, and try not to worry so much!

I was also at around a 40 BMI and was scared to lose any weight around my first appt with my doctor. In fact, I gained a few pounds just to make sure I stayed above 40. People said the same to me as well. They don't understand how it feels to look in the mirror and not be happy with yourself. I went through with the surgery 10 days ago and do not regret it. If you meet the requirements of your insurance company, they will not deny you. Good luck!

I went in with a BMI of 38 but with three co-morbities. I was less than 100 lbs overweight and over the typical age limit for surgery. I felt totally comfortable with the surgeon's assessment and he did have concerns because of being over age 70. However I had a very successful surgery, an uncomplicated recovery, and I think I added years to my life and even more importantly an opportunity for a better quality of life.

I am a 40 BMI as well. My family and friends all say that I don't look like I need surgery as well. And my reply is "it will probably be too late by the time I look like I need surgery". Anyway, all my doctors and nurses are professional and they look at it from a BMI standpoint. They understand. I wouldn't worry.

Everyone told me I didn't need to lose weight... and I said screw them... I knew I was morbidly obese and I told them that I appreciate them trying to be nice, but I had to face the reality that I was fat and I wanted to change my life for the better.

Now they tell me... don't lose anymore weight, you look sick. I'm still 30 lbs away from my goal weight and I'm not stopping til I have a six pack or better. For once I feel amazing, attractive, I run every single day and I'm a gym rat now... they are still themselves, most of them overweight and no desire to change anything in their life.

Remember that if Insurance is paying for this, your surgeon knows the insurance game and your surgeon doesn't make money if he/she doesn't do this surgery. They may mis-read the scale, but I doubt they are going to turn you away over a lb or two.