I have a BMI of 32. Can I have a sleeve?

Question

My BMI is 32 but I have severe knee and hip and foot pain. And of course all the other issues with being FAT. I have tried everything to lose the weight. I want to be active again but just can't with my weight. I am 53. I have contemplated this for a year and what is holding me back most is whether or not it is appropriate for me to take this drastic step. I am planning on having it done in Mexico…the screening isn't great, so I need someone to tell me this is not an insane idea.

Carson C. Cunningham, MD · Answer

A BMI between 30-34 is a candidate for weight loss surgery if traditional therapies have been unsuccessful. Sleeve is a great option. I cannot recommend lap band. I am a surgeon in Louisiana and my next statements reflect this bias. Do not have surgery in Mexico!! Before going to Mexico, answer these questions for yourself. What physician will care for me where I live after surgery? Is there a surgeon where I live who will care for me if I have a complication? Since my health insurance doesn't cover surgery, how will I pay for any care after surgery if I have any problems when I return?

Pablo Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello, DearThank you so much for your questions.According with your BMI you are a great candidate for hastricc sleeve.But first you must be evaluated by a Certified Bariatric Surgeon.Best regards

Terry Simpson, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

You can get the gastric sleeve, however there is not an insurance company that would pay for that operation. While you could pay cash for the operation, it is likely that insurance won't pay for it, because there has not been a good long-term study of the effects of those operations on lower BMI patients such as yourself. There has been good studies showing this works well with the Lap-Band.I'd suggest that   you find and discuss this with a weight loss surgeon. Good luck.

I have a BMI of 32. Can I have a sleeve?

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I have a BMI of 32. Can I have a sleeve?

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Everything you need to know about Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.