Who is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
Understanding whether you qualify for bariatric surgery is a crucial step in your weight loss journey. It’s not just about numbers on the scale; it’s also about your health history, mental preparedness, and commitment to lifelong changes. To provide you with a clear picture of the candidacy for bariatric surgery, here are essential factors you need to know provided by the team at New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery in Knoxville, TN.
Assessing Your Body Mass Index (BMI)
One of the key indicators used to determine if someone is eligible for bariatric surgery is their Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is a number calculated from a person’s weight and height. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), you might be a suitable candidate for bariatric surgery if:
- Your BMI is 40 or higher, which is considered severe obesity.
- Your BMI is 35 or more, and you have a weight-related health issue, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or severe sleep apnea.
In some cases, you might qualify if your BMI is 30 to 34, and you have serious weight-related health issues. However, the BMI is not the only deciding factor. It is used in conjunction with other health indicators and personal circumstances.
Health Conditions and Comorbidities
Beyond BMI, potential candidates for bariatric surgery often have one or more weight-related health conditions, known as comorbidities. These can include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and other issues. Weight loss from bariatric surgery can often alleviate these conditions, enhancing patients’ quality of life.
Your Psychological Health
Bariatric surgery is not just a physical change, but a psychological one as well. A successful outcome involves significant lifestyle adjustments, including diet and exercise changes. Therefore, mental readiness is crucial. Patients should have a clear understanding of the procedure, the benefits, risks, and the commitment to long-term changes.
Failed Weight Loss Attempts
Bariatric surgery is often considered when traditional weight loss methods like diet and exercise haven’t yielded the desired results. If you have diligently tried to lose weight through these methods without success, you might be a candidate for bariatric surgery.
Commitment to Lifestyle Changes
Undergoing bariatric surgery is a lifelong commitment. Post-surgery, you will need to adhere to a healthy diet, engage in regular exercise, limit alcohol, and quit smoking. You will also need to attend regular follow-up appointments and take any recommended supplements. This commitment to a new lifestyle plays a significant role in determining if you are a suitable candidate for surgery.
Determining candidacy for bariatric surgery involves a comprehensive evaluation, including physical health, psychological readiness, and a commitment to change. At New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery, Bariatric Surgeon, Dr. K. Robert Williams and his team are committed to supporting you throughout your weight loss journey, starting with helping you understand if bariatric surgery is the right step for you.
If you think you might be a candidate, or if you want more information, we encourage you to learn more about the weight loss surgery process by watching our free Bariatric Seminar video today!