Do I Need Weight Loss Surgery?

Despite exercise programs and diet plans, many people still struggle to maintain a healthy weight. Americans unable to lose the weight any other way are increasingly turning to weight loss surgery to finally shed the excess pounds. Is weight loss surgery for you? Here’s some information to help you decide:

Who Qualifies for Weight Loss Surgery?

Overall, candidates typically have been unable to lose weight despite serious attempts to achieve and sustain a healthy weight. More specifically, candidates either:

• have a BMI of 40 or more or are more than 100 pounds overweight or
• have a BMI of 35 or more and have at least one “obesity-related comorbidity”—a chronic disease or condition that is associated with excess weight.

What is BMI?

BMI is the acronym for body mass index. It is one way of determining whether your weight is appropriate for your body when compared with your height. The BMI equation translates as your weight in kilograms divided by your height squared in meters:

• kg/m2 = BMI

To calculate BMI using English measurements, divide your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared. Multiply that figure by 703, and round to one decimal place:

• (lb/in2) x 703 = BMI

You can also use our online BMI calculator here. This method is one of many that doctors use to determine whether or not someone is eligible for weight loss surgery. If you think you may be a good candidate, contact us to register for a seminar for more information.

Obesity-related Conditions

Excess weight is closely associated with a number of chronic diseases and medical conditions that impact quality of life, result in additional medical issues and shorten life expectancy. These conditions are considered serious enough to reduce the BMI threshold qualifying for weight loss surgery from 40 to 35. Comorbid conditions typically include:

• type 2 diabetes
• hypertension
• lipid abnormalities like high cholesterol
• heart disease or congestive heart failure
• respiratory disorders like chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
• nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
• gastrointestinal disorders or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Is Weight Loss Surgery Right for You?

While body mass calculations are helpful, a consultation with a weight loss doctor is the single best way to determine whether weight loss surgery is the right option for you.