Who is a Good Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
Patients with these characteristics are typically the best candidates for bariatric weight loss surgery:
- BMI = 40 or BMI = 35 with obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, Reflux Disease or Sleep Apnea
- At least 100 pounds above estimated ideal weight
- Age 18 or older
- Tried non-surgical weight loss methods without success
- Committed to long-term lifestyle changes, including dietary, exercise and medical requirements
Bariatric surgery is not intended for patients who are currently pregnant or may become pregnant in the future. It may not be appropriate for patients with certain medical conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders, severe pulmonary or cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, increased risk of bleeding or mental disorders. Your doctor can tell you more about the specific risks and benefits of bariatric surgery and whether it is right for you.
See also: Weighing the risks and benefits
