Weight Loss Surgery Candidacy

If diets and exercise programs have failed you and you are ready to explore surgical weight loss options, the first step is to determine if you are a good candidate for treatment.

BMI Requirements

In general, a good candidate for weight loss surgery has a Body Mass Index, or BMI, greater than 35 in addition to one or more associated serious medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or respiratory problems. If your BMI is above 40, you may be considered a good candidate with or without associated medical conditions.

Overall Health

In addition to meeting minimum BMI requirements, a good candidate for weight loss surgery should be healthy enough to withstand the surgical procedure and the recovery process. Your bariatric surgeon can help you determine if you are a good candidate for surgery and can help you explore your treatment options.

Lifestyle Changes

You should be aware that weight loss surgery is not a cure all for obesity; it is simply a tool in your weight loss journey. A good candidate for bariatric surgery is someone who has committed to a long-term lifestyle change. You should have a clear understanding of the effects of the procedure, including dietary limitations, changes in physical appearance, and other aspects of life after surgery.

Insurance Approval

If you want to use insurance benefits to pay for all or part of the weight loss surgery, you will need to request approval prior to undergoing your procedure. You will likely need to be able to document a history of weight loss attempts to show that you have attempted to achieve a healthy weight on your own without success. Your insurance provider may have additional criteria to determine your coverage. For more information about surgical weight loss options, please contact our bariatric surgery center to schedule a consultation.