How to Qualify for Bariatric Surgery

Many people live with obesity and no matter how much exercise and dieting they do, it doesn’t seem to make a difference. There could be many reasons for this. Bariatric surgery, sometimes known as weight loss surgery, is an option for people who struggle with obesity or those who have tried other means of weight loss that simply hasn’t worked for them. Weight loss surgeries make changes to your stomach and digestive system that will limit how much you can eat and how the nutrients are absorbed.

There are several factors your physician will consider when determining if you are a qualified candidate for weight loss surgery. One of the primary criterion will be determining your body mass index. To calculate your BMI your physician will use your height and weight to determine if you are clinically obese. Typically you have to have a BMI of 40 or higher or 35-40 with an obesity related disease such as diabetes, severe sleep apnea, high blood pressure, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, osteoarthritis, lipid abnormalities, gastrointestinal disorders or heart disease.

There will also be a consideration for those who have attempted to lose weight for an extended period and just can’t seem to achieve a healthy weight. A consultation with the physician to ensure you have no medical conditions that could put you at risk in surgery and some further testing will help determine if you fall into this category.

If you are proven to be a good candidate and decide to proceed, you must be prepared to follow through with pre-surgery and post-surgery recommendations by your physician as well as commit to a nutrition and exercise plan for the rest of your life. These all play a significant part in the success and results of weight loss surgery.