The National Institutes of Health sets minimum requirements for recommending bariatric surgery as a treatment option:
- 100 pounds or more above ideal body weight or a BMI of 40 or greater, or a BMI of 35 or greater with one or more obesity-related health condition
Other qualifying factors may include:
- History of documented dietary weight loss attempts.
- Lifelong commitment to dietary, exercise, and medical guidelines and follow-up care.
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Psychological evaluation
Together, you and your bariatric surgeon can take steps to determine:
- If surgery is the right treatment for you.
- Which type of procedure is right for you.
- If you are mentally and emotionally prepared to make lifelong lifestyle changes.
- That you have, or will have, the necessary support system around you.
Expect the prequalification process to include a series of tests. You also will meet with a nutritionist, psychologist, and other support staff members in sessions leading up to surgery. Each health care professional will help you prepare for the changes and challenges that lie ahead. |
