Question:
Is it common?

... for doctors to require a weight loss prior to surgery? I have read many posts that say their doctor wants them to lose 20-30, even 50 lbs. before surgery will be scheduled. I understand the doctor's wanting to be sure the patient is committed to the weight loss, but really this is ridiculous. I know if the doctor required this of me I couldn't do it. That's why I want WLS. But i am wondering how common it is among doctors to require such a loss?    — Laura B. (posted on October 2, 2000)

October 2, 2000
I've heard that some doctors require weight loss prior to surgery to shrink enlarged livers. The liver needs to be lifted out of the way of the stomach for much of the surgery, and it's a little easier to do when the liver is smaller. BTC did not require me to lose weight (but I managed to lose a pound anyway) and my liver was not enlarged.
   — Allie B.

October 3, 2000
Laura, Most doctors have patients lose some weight before surgery now a days. Not because they are testing us, but for health reasons. I asked my doctor. His response was, he needed at least 10lbs off so that he would have more room to operate. Weight loss right before any surgery is highly recommended, and proven to be a benefit to the patient. It makes your liver more movable, in order to get to the stomach. If your liver is to fatty, it moves like jello mushing all over, and making it harder (if not imposible) to move. In my case, I had a laproscopic RNY. During which they blow up the stomach with air. If I had not have lost 14lbs, they would not have had as much room. My surgeon stated that he still would have done the surgery, even if I had not have lost any weight.
   — Becki S.