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Bariatric Surgery/Can anyone have this surgery or do you have to meet criteria?

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Expert: - 1/11/2008


Question
I am 27, 400lbs, 6'6", BMI is 46.2% I have no health issues and want to keep it that way. My Dad died from congestive heart failure at 53 he was 500+lbs 6'2". That is why I want to have this surgery and I couldnt find on the internet any comparison to the band or staple as to how the side effects were. I know a lady who had the surgery (staples) and she is gassy and oh my god it's horrible. I don't know of any other side effects

Answer
Chris,
Yes, there are generally accepted criteria to help decide if the risk vs. benefit is likely to make surgery worthwhile for a certain person.  Since the usual accepted weight threshold is a BMI > 40, you certainly do meet the usual accepted criteria.

The rest of your question has to do with the choice of procedure.  You can begin learning about the different procedures on the web at an informational site like:
www.bariatricedge.com

and then you should learn more by getting engaged with a Center of Excellence program for bariatric surgery in your area.  You can find surgeons/programs at the website for our national organization:
http://www.asbs.org/html/about/membersearch2.html

Best of luck!

Dr JP

Bariatric Surgery

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Volunteer

John Pilcher, MD

Expertise

I can answer medically oriented questions about bariatric surgery including: patient selection, preparation for surgery, differences between types of bariatric surgery, aftercare following bariatric surgery. I can answer detailed questions about gastric bypass, Lap-Band, gastric sleeve, and revision bariatric surgery. I am only somewhat familiar with Biliopancreatic diversion. I am not prepared to answer insurance or other financial questions related to bariatric surgery.

Experience

I have been a practicing bariatric surgeon since 1995. About 85% of my current practice consists of bariatric surgery, including all of the above procedures except biliopancreatic diversion. I am the senior surgeon of a 5-surgeon group. I am recognized among surgeons and other medical professionals as the most experienced bariatric surgeon in my region.

Organizations
Fellow of American College of Surgeons Member, American Society for Bariatric Surgery

Education/Credentials
BA in Biochemistry - University of Virginia Medical Degree - University of Virginia Surgical Residency - University of Virginia

Awards and Honors
Alpha Omega Alpha

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