Hi! I am very new to this community and to the idea of WLS in general. I have tried (and failed) for years to lose weight, so I am finally reaching out for help! I am 24 years old, 5'5", and currently weigh 310lbs, putting my BMI at 52.

My question is... where do I even begin? I just made an appointment with my PCP for next week and said the reason for the appointment was to discuss my weight. I started weight loss management with her back in August 2020 (~6 months ago), so I do have some documented proof of trying to lose weight through diet change and exercise. But... it hasn't worked. I only lost about 15 pounds and have since plateaued.

I am now interested in my WLS options. How do I even breach this subject with my doctor? Do I just outright say I am interested in bariatric surgery? My health insurance (Harvard Pilgrim) requires a referral, so I know this is the first step to take, but I am not sure how to get the ball rolling or what to expect.

What can I expect out of this initial conversation? What was your experience like? Has anyone been denied a referral from their doctor?

Any advice or info would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance ?

That is so exciting! Please keep updating us on your progress.

I actually haven’t talked with my PCP about it. I had so many appointments where I wanted to talk about my weight problems and was just told to eat right and exercise. I’ve been trying for years to lose weight and tried so many programs. I finally called the weight loss center myself to see what options I had. I think I’m actually going to ask my surgeon if she can refer me to a PCP who is a little more supportive.