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Bariatric surgery is widely recognized as one of the most effective ways to lose large amounts of excess weight and improve overall health. It’s not just about shedding pounds—it can also reduce the risk of serious conditions like heart disease, sleep apnea, and type 2 diabetes. However, not everyone is eligible for this type of weight loss surgery.

There are specific criteria that individuals must meet before they can be considered for bariatric surgery. These guidelines ensure that the procedure is safe and will offer the best long-term results.

If you’ve struggled to lose weight through traditional methods like diet and exercise, and are considering bariatric surgery, understanding the eligibility criteria is the first step. These guidelines are in place to help determine if bariatric surgery is the right option for you.A doctor speaking with her patient in a hospital room discussing Bariatric Surgery vs. Non-Surgical Weight Loss Methods.

Guidelines for Bariatric Surgery Eligibility

Before you can undergo bariatric surgery, you must meet certain criteria to be considered a suitable candidate. These guidelines focus on several factors, including your body mass index (BMI), health conditions related to obesity, and your mental and physical readiness for the procedure. Below are the most important eligibility criteria for bariatric surgery:

  • Body Mass Index
  • Obesity-Related Disease
  • Psychological Health
  • History
  • Commitment

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Your body mass index (BMI) is a key factor in determining your eligibility for bariatric surgery. In the past, candidates for weight loss surgery needed a BMI of 40 or higher, which was classified as extreme obesity. If you had a BMI of 35 and also suffered from obesity-related diseases, such as heart disease or sleep apnea, you would still qualify for the procedure.

Today, those numbers have dropped to a BMI of 35 and 30. Your healthcare provider will calculate your BMI and assess whether bariatric surgery is a suitable option for you.

Obesity-Related Diseases

Health conditions that are related to obesity, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea, play a crucial role in determining your eligibility. Bariatric surgery has been shown to significantly reduce the symptoms of these conditions, improving quality of life and long-term health.

If you suffer from any of these diseases, you may qualify for bariatric surgery even if your BMI isn’t above 30. These conditions are typically serious enough that they warrant medical intervention to help you lose weight and reduce health risks.

Psychological Health

Your psychological health is another important factor when it comes to eligibility for bariatric surgery. Before being approved, you will undergo a psychological evaluation to ensure you are mentally prepared for the surgery and the lifestyle changes it requires.

This includes identifying any issues related to emotional eating, depression, or anxiety, as these can affect your ability to achieve and maintain long-term success. Having a strong support system and a positive mindset is essential for a smooth recovery and ongoing weight loss journey.

Past Injuries, Surgeries, or Weight Loss Efforts

Past injuries or surgeries can also impact your candidacy for weight loss surgery. If you’ve had surgeries on your stomach, intestines, or other parts of your digestive system, these might affect your eligibility. Old injuries that limit your ability to engage in supervised weight loss programs or physical activity may also be considered.

Additionally, you had to have tried to lose weight through other avenues, such as diet plans, exercise, and other efforts with little or no success. Your healthcare provider will take your history into account when determining whether bariatric surgery is right for you.

Commitment

Lastly, a high level of commitment is necessary for anyone considering bariatric surgery. The procedure is only the beginning of your weight loss journey. After surgery, you will need to follow strict dietary guidelines, participate in regular physical activity, and attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare team.

This commitment is essential to achieving long-term weight loss success. Your healthcare provider will assess your readiness to make these lifestyle changes before approving you for surgery. If you are unable to make these lifestyle changes–healthier eating and regular exercise–you will not be a good candidate for weight loss surgery.

Why These Requirements Are Important

Meeting the eligibility criteria for bariatric surgery is crucial for ensuring the procedure’s success. These requirements help healthcare providers determine whether the surgery will be safe and effective for you. If you meet the guidelines, bariatric surgery can offer significant, long-term health benefits by helping you lose weight and reduce obesity-related risks.

However, not following the necessary pre-surgery guidelines can lead to complications or unsuccessful outcomes. This is why commitment, physical readiness, and a supportive environment are all vital parts of the process.

FAQs About Bariatric Surgery Eligibility

What BMI is required for bariatric surgery?

A BMI of 35 or higher is typically required, but individuals with a BMI of 30 who suffer from obesity-related diseases like heart disease or sleep apnea may also qualify.

Can I have bariatric surgery if I have diabetes?

Yes, in fact, bariatric surgery can help improve or even resolve type 2 diabetes. Many patients with diabetes see a significant improvement in their blood sugar levels after surgery.

Do I need to try other weight loss methods before considering surgery?

Most candidates are required to try supervised weight loss programs, such as diet and exercise plans, before being approved for bariatric surgery.

What if I’ve had previous surgeries on my stomach?

Your medical history will be reviewed carefully. Past surgeries on the stomach or intestines can affect eligibility, but each case is evaluated individually.

What kind of mental health evaluation will I need?

You’ll need to undergo a psychological evaluation to ensure you’re mentally prepared for the lifestyle changes required after surgery. This helps ensure long-term success.

How long does it take to get approved for bariatric surgery?

The approval process can vary, but it typically involves consultations, medical tests, and evaluations–not to mention scheduling–which can take several months.

Will insurance cover my surgery?

Many health care plans cover bariatric surgery if you meet certain medical criteria. It’s best to check with your provider to see if you’re covered.

If you’re ready to explore whether you’re eligible for bariatric surgery, WeightWise is here to help. Our team of experts is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process, from initial assessments to post-surgery support. Reach out to us today for more information about weight loss surgery or take our free online assessment to see if you’re a candidate. Your weight loss journey starts now!

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