My BMI was only 37, but I had other factors like sleep apnea instead of diabetes that created the cause for my insurance to pay for it.

Before the surgery, most doctors require a 2 week liquid diet and most people tend to lose 10-15lbs. My suggestion would be to try that, getting in 60g of protein, juice, water, sugar free jello, etc and see how that works for you. If you can lose the 15 lbs in the two weeks, then you're only got 15-20 more pounds to go. It seems most people on here have bypass surgery instead of the sleeve, but it's a major surgery. If you're that close and going to have to lose that much weight before surgery, maybe give it a try. Even though most of us are happy with our surgery, you will see on here that there are a lot of complications. So only use it as a last resort. Besides, it's the drop in weight and adhering to a diet that's going to get rid of the diabetes, not the sleeve around your stomach. Good luck in making your decision.

I am an insulin dependent diabetic on an insulin pump. I can't address the issues with the BMI, because I believe each insurance company has its own criteria for qualification. However, I was told by three doctors, including my surgeon, that diabetics have greater weight loss with the roux en y, gastric bypass surgery. So that's the plan for me at this time. Currently, I am starting the third month of my 6 month supervised diet plan required by my insurance company. I have lost weight on Humilin U500 insulin, which is 5 times the concentration of Humalog U100, which most insulin dependent diabetics use with their pumps. I may have 180 carbs per day, with a minimum carb intake of 130. I do not eat ANY bread, pasta, potatoes, rice, or sugar. My carbs come mainly from fruits vegetables, and dairy. If I can lose weight~anybody can. I have to say, I was shocked when I actually did drop weight with the amount of insulin that I take. Really T., you can do this! Now, the problem is~gaining it back via the yo-yo syndrome. I am hoping that GBS will be my tool to keep the weight off. You can start your journey today, even if you are waiting for the surgery. The surgery is a tool, but you've got to commit to the plan for the rest of your life. The people in the group, who have more experience than I do, will tell you that. I have learned that from these wonderlful WLS members, I wish you strength as you proceed on your journey. ~QB