Can a 15 year-old teen who has diabetes and is 50 pounds overweight get the lap band or gastric bypass?

Not before: A thorough evaluation and maximization of lifestyle interventions in general.

See below: This will probably not be offered at the age of 15. What should be encouraged is a serious attempt at weight loss, if needed this can be done in an inpatient setting. The diabetes will probably minimize once the weight is brought under control. Parents can help by removing unhealthy food options from the home.

Teen: A little too young at 15. Waiting until 18 would be ideal but 16 & 17 year olds can have surgery but should only do so at an adolescent weight loss surgery program and after extensive evaluation. The patient will also need a bmi of 35 or more if they have diabetes.