To determine if you are a candidate for weight loss surgery, there are many things to consider. Most importantly is your Body Mass Index (BMI).  This is a calculation, based on your height and weight, that is used to determine your degree of excess weight.  Next are any medical complications you have that may be improved or reversed with significant weight loss.

According to the National Institutes of Health, you may be a candidate for weight loss surgery if you:

•    Arthritis •    Asthma •    Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) •    Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) •    Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) •    Daytime Sleepiness •    Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) •    Diabetes (Type 2) •    End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) •    Fatigue •    Gallbladder Disease •    Glucose Intolerance •    Gout •    Hypertension

•    Impaired Immune Response •    Impaired Respiratory Function •    Infertility •    Joint Pain •    Liver Disease •    Low Back Pain •    Obstetric and Gynecologic Complications •    Pain •    Pancreatitis •    Reflux •    Sleep Apnea •    Stroke •    Urinary Stress Incontinence •    Wound Infections

Further, your chances of success are greater if you:

• Are able to effectively care for yourself and follow a physician’s instructions
• Are motivated to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle
• Understand your risks and take active measures to avoid complications
• Do not abuse drugs or alcohol
• Do not smoke
• Are an adult under the age of 65
  

Still, not everyone is a candidate and there are important steps to take to determine for sure. A complete medical exam will help your physician determine if you are fit for surgery and which procedure might be best for you. A visit with a counselor and/or support group can help get you mentally prepared.  Call us and we’ll help you get started.