I am 22 years old and 260 lbs. Am I too young for bypass surgery?

Question

I have tried everything under the sun. Nothing works for me. I can't breathe walking up the stairs. I am ready to start having kids. Am I too young for surgery?

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well. 
Unfortunately, without pictures, it is very difficult to give you a proper answer. l recommend you to make an appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon to talk about your goals and anything you need to know.
Good luck :)Dr. Luis Mejia.

Ali Solmaz, MD · Answer

At 22 years old and 260 lbs, you are not too young for gastric bypass surgery if you meet the medical criteria and are emotionally ready for the lifelong changes it requires. Bariatric surgery is typically recommended for individuals with a BMI over 40, or over 35 if you have obesity-related health conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
Younger patients often see excellent outcomes because they tend to recover quickly and adapt well to the required lifestyle changes. However, the success of the surgery depends on your commitment to maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and attending follow-ups.
Before proceeding, a thorough evaluation by a bariatric team, including a surgeon, dietitian, and psychologist, is crucial. They will assess your health, discuss risks and benefits, and ensure you’re ready for this major step.
The decision to have surgery should be based on your health and goals, not just your age. If you’re prepared and meet the criteria, gastric bypass could be a life-changing tool to improve your health and quality of life.

Pablo Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello, I hope you are well. You are definitely not to young for bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery is even practiced in pediatric populations due to the inreased rates of obesity. However, beyond your age, you would need to be evaluated by a certified bariatric surgeon in order to determine if you are eligible. Your BMI, overall weight loss journey, and comorbied diseases would need to be taken into accoutn for this.  Hope this answer was useful. Please do not hesitate to contact us if any other questions arise.

Ariel Ortiz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Maria, you are not too young to have surgery, but I would recommend you consider the gastric sleeve surgery.  The weight loss is very similar to a bypass, but with fewer risks and complications, plus you don't want to miss out on things because of your weight.   The sooner you get off the weight, the less likely you will develop complications from excess weight.  We even perform surgery on teenagers.

I am 22 years old and 260 lbs. Am I too young for bypass surgery?

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I am 22 years old and 260 lbs. Am I too young for bypass surgery?

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