Will they operate...

[KingSnuffy 0]

Hello. I'm 16 years old and I am 6 ft. 4 inches tall. I have a body mass of over 45. Will I be able to find a doctor to operate on me?

[MaidMarion 1]

More and more doctors are doing surgery on people your age. I know my doctor is part of a program that will operate on younger patients. You might have to look a bit harder

[KingSnuffy 0]

Ok. I didn't know. I haven't started looking yet, but something darastic needs to be done soon to solve this problem.

[drew05 20]

More often than not a doctor will not do a surgery on someone your age. The reasons for this are many, ranging from personal objections to legitimate medical concerns. Although I have to say I wish I could have had this procedure done earlier in my life.

From the sound of it you're a big guy. I assume guy (the name), but have you ever considered getting into football or anything like that in school? Even if you get the surgery done, getting into football or even into a weight training program at school is a great way to get yourself ready mentally and physically for the changes you'll have to make. And this is coming from a guy your same height and probably your same weight. My football training and muscles I built while in football and after football are going to come in handy (they already are) as the more muscle you have, the more fat you burn. Just an idea. But welcome to the board! Make yourself at home

EDIT: Just read over my post and I didn't want to come across as saying it wasn't a good idea to get the surgery. It might just be perfect for you. Just look around and find a doctor you're comfortable with and take it from there. And there are not a lot of legitimate medical concerns for teenagers getting the Lap Band as it doesn't restrict your body's absorption of Vitamins and other nutrients like GBP does. If you have any questions, feel free to PM me. I know that it can be easier to talk to another guy. And once again, welcome!

Edited June 5, 2008 by drew05

[KingSnuffy 0]

Thank you...its a little late for football because I'm a senior....but thanks I'll go talk to a doctor soon...

[laurenwhite82 0]

King-

It also kinda depends on where you live. If you live near a large research hospital, they usually are more likely to take younger people. I will be banded at NYU medical center and I know they have a special program where they have banded kids as young as 15. I am not sure what the requirements are versus being an older bandster, but if you google their name their website may have more details. Also, i know there is a forum on this site for teenagers who have been banded. You might take a look and ask around as to where they have been banded. Good luck!