Hi,

I would like to have the lapband surgery done. Not sure if I qualify for the surgery since I am only about 70lbs overweight maybe a little less.

I have tyoe 2 diabetes along with high cholesteral (sp). Since being diagnosed with diabetes I have noticed that I do not have the energy that I used to have. My feet have been swelling lately, the left ankle very painful at times to walk on. I have an appointment with my dr. next week. I used to be a very active person, loved to bike ride but now all I want to do is sleep! I have been forcing myself to get out and garden but when I'm on my feet too long my feet start to tingle and swell. Hopefully at my next drs. appointment I'll have the nerve to ask about the surgery!

I'm not interested in the gastric surgery since I have seen what they have to go through!

Do I have enough health problems to qualify for this surgery is my question.

hey actually you do. you have to be 100 pounds over weight normally-but if you have a BMI of 35 or higher (which you might have since you're 70lbs over weight) you def. qualify. especially since you have diabetes. ask your doctor! im so excited about my upcoming surgery. its life changing.

I'm sure you qualify....here in the Houston area where there are lots of doctors competing for your business, you only need to be about 50 lbs overweight, not even a BMI of 35. Good luck, you'll find someone to do it if you decide you want it :-)

My insurance required a BMI of 40 or higher with comorbidities for approval. Have you determined what your BMI is?

You should check your BMI, to do so go here: Calculate your BMI - Standard BMI Calculator

Yes, if your BMI is a little lower and you are going to pay out of pocket you may not have any problem finding a doctor who is willing to do the surgery but if you are using insurance you will have to be within the guidelines of your particular insurance policy.

Typically the guidelines are either

1.) A BMI above 40

OR

2.) A BMI of 35 to 40 with co-morbities (heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea etc.)

Hey Lexiesmom,

I have a low BMI (under 40) and I was approved. I have high blood pressure and a bad back so that qualified me. You seem to have more comorbidities than I did so I am sure you will be approved. Good luck in your process!