Evan

Do you know how your parents feel about it now? Have they had ongoing weight struggles. In other words, will they be sympathetic to what you're going through and where you're coming from? Is your relationship with them as such that you can receive their support?

Do as much research as you can and present it to them. If you can show them that you're not taking this lightly they'll take you more seriously. See if you can get them to talk to someone who has been banded. Do you have a doctor who you have a history with? If so, try talking to them and seeing what they think. If you can get them on your side, it gives your arguments credibility. If they don't think you should be banded, a good doctor will point you in another direction such as a nutritionist rather than just leaving you hanging. Banding is really for those who have exhausted all their other options, so you should explore any (healthy!) suggestions first. By law, doctors are not supposed to share your confidential medical information with your parents if you don't want them to, so you can count on whatever they tell you to be private if that's what you prefer. You can always bring your parents to this forum so they can see what the situation is and ask questions.

There are many factors which will dictate how your parents react to this. Though they may initially say no, keep the dialog with them open. Hopefully they'll be supportive in whatever weight loss method you choose.

I have started my research. The more my mom's friend spoke to me about it and I told her what was going on, the more I felt that this may be an option. I am already in the read with my health. I am in pain and I am out of breath. I cannot diet, I have tried too many times, and it failed. I have two issues:

1. My primary care doctor is leaving the practice.

2. I am relocating to New York for college (and probably permanently), so my parents won't be with me.

How much can this cost? We can afford it, but I was wondering.

I also have never had surgery before (not even stitches for a cut). The worst I have had was a splinter taken out of me.

Hi, I'm Evan. I am 17, turning 18 in July. I am very overweight. I am right around 300 lbs and am between 5 11 and 6 foot. My bmi is just over 40. My mom's friend was banded maybe a year ago, and we were talking about it yesterday. I have failed diets multiple times, and while my eating is psychological, I am deathly afraid to throw up, so I know that will change my psychological eating habits and make me extra careful. that is how well I know myself.

I am at wits end with myself, and am physically tired of eating so much. it is like i have an insatiable appetite. i cannot stand it anymore. i want to warm my parents to the idea, any help? thanks.