Is Weight Loss Surgery Right for Me?

Those struggling with obesity understand the daily challenges that being overweight can bring to their daily life. There are mobility issues, a physical impact that includes the risk of developing a variety of co-morbid conditions, and, just as important, the emotional fallout from being overweight in a world that so values a lean, healthy body. By the time they are adults, many overweight people have tried dozens of diets and, in the end, wind up back where they were before because they are unable to manage the changes that need to be made to maintain long-term success.

When health concerns become too big to ignore, you may wonder if weight loss surgery is right for you. It’s certainly not for everyone. And ultimately it’s important to work with your doctor to determine if surgery is the right choice. If you’re considering weight loss surgery, the following factors typically determine if someone is a good candidate:


*  Weight. Obviously the reason that you’re even considering surgery is because of your weight but not everyone is a candidate for bariatric surgery. Typically those with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more are candidates for weight loss surgery. Men with this BMI are about 100 pounds overweight, while women are about 80 pounds overweight.

*  Length of Obesity. If you have been classified as obese for at least five years, you may be a candidate for surgery.

*  Co-Morbid Conditions. Weight loss surgeons will consider candidates for weight loss surgery with a BMI between 30 and 39.9 with at least one serious condition related to their weight.

*  Understanding of Surgery. In order to be a candidate for weight loss surgery, it is important to understand the details of the surgery including the recovery process and the lifestyle changes you need to make following surgery in order to be successful in maintaining a healthy weight.

Weight loss surgery isn’t for everyone but it can be a life changer for those who are qualified to undergo bariatric surgery. Talk with your doctor about your candidacy for weight loss surgery.

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