Weight Loss Surgery Requirements

Who Should Have Weight Loss Surgery? 

Weight loss surgery requirements define who should - and who shouldn't - have weight loss surgery. This type of surgery, which is also often called bariatric weight loss surgery should not be considered a quick fix or a magic bullet for individuals who are obese and want to lose weight quickly. Weight loss surgery requirements insure that anyone who is considering such a procedure is appropriate for the operation and has a high chance of success. These requirements also help prospective bariatric surgery patients understand any risks associated with the operation.

You should consider weight loss surgery only if you have worked with your doctor to reduce your weight through other means like diet and exercise. If you have worked conscientiously and diligently to lose weight through these methods, but nothing has helped, than stomach surgery may be an option.

Your doctor will consider you a candidate for stomach surgery if:

*You have a Body Mass Index, or BMI, is calculated through a formula that compares height and weight of 40 or more. A normal BMI is generally considered to be between 18.5 and 25. Body Mass Index, or BMI, is calculated through a formula that compares height and weight.

*You are at least 100 pounds over your recommended weight.

*You have a BMI of 35 or more combined with a serious illness that can be alleviated with weight loss. Diseases and conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea would fall into this category.

You must be willing to make a firm commitment to a follow up program of diet and exercise, along with certain other lifestyle changes that will help you keep weight off. Complications are likely to develop if you don't make such a commitment.

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