starswilldiex

i had gastric bypass over 5 years ago. i don't think proving you have had an unsuccessful diet history and a 6 month waiting period and testing is A LOT. i think this is perfectly acceptable and i think it should probably be a requirement for all insurances. it is a huge life changing event as well as major surgery and should not be an overnight deisicion for anyone. i took my time and waited and i still struggled and still did not make the best choices and ended up gaining some of the weight back. i gained 40 lbs back which i sucessfully took back off and have kept off for over a year. but you must keep in the back of your mind that gastric bypass is not a cure all but a tool and to use it wisely.

as far as the age limit i don't think there is a specific age limit in place pertaining to insurances and this surgery because that would be discrimination but doctors and insurances do have to take age into consideration when presented with a patient who has multiple co morbidities.

for example

21 yr old f patient who is healthy except her bmi is 45
62 yr old m patient who is healthy except his bmi is 42
66 yr old f patient who has bmi of 46, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sleep apnea, history of stroke, high blood pressure

obviously the 1st two patients would be canidates for surgery regardless of the age. the third patient the doctor would have to take the patient's medical history and co-morbidities into factor along with their age in deciding if placing the patient under for surgery and the surgery itsself would harm the patient more than the patient being overweight.