Bariatric surgery is the only proven method to maintain long lasting weight loss. Weight loss surgery is geared for individuals who are severely overweight, but it is not for everyone. There are several requirements one has to meet to be acandidate for surgery:
BMI of 40 or higher - People with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher are candidates for weight loss surgery regardless of their co-morbidities.
BMI of 35 or higher with medical co-morbidities - Individuals who have medical conditions related to their obesity may qualify for surgery if their body mass index is only 35. Some of these medical conditions, called co-morbidities, include:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Sleep apnea
- Obesity hypoventilation syndrome
- High cholesterol
- Pseudotumor cerebri
- Family history of early coronary heart disease
Other possible indications for patients with BMI’s between 35 and 40 include:
- Obesity-induced physical problems interfering with lifestyle (back or joint pain)
- Body size problem precluding or severely interfering with social life (employment, family function, and/or ambulation)
- Have failed multiple attempts with supervised dietary, behavioral and medical therapy
Failed conservative weight loss attempts - Weight loss surgery is a big step, and it should be considered only after traditional methods of weight loss have been tried.
Age
There is not necessarily an upper age limit for weight loss surgery candidates. The risks and benefits of having an operation will need to be considered on an individual basis by your surgeon.