Which Patients Qualify for Bariatric Surgery?

February 23, 2023 | All Articles |

Bariatric surgery could be the solution you’re looking for when it comes to bettering your quality of life. However, you must be the correct candidate for the surgery and only undergo the process if it is the best solution. It is critical to educate yourself and work with certified medical professionals to come up with a plan to get your health back on track.

Bariatric Surgery Basics

Understanding the surgery can help you decide if you meet the qualifications for bariatric surgery. The surgery essentially changes a person’s digestive system to help them lose weight. There are several types of bariatric procedures including:

Malabsorptive Procedures
Restrictive Procedures

The goal is to reduce nutrient absorption or make the stomach smaller which leads to a lower appetite. Lifestyle changes must accompany the surgery in order for success in the future. The recovery time varies; however, most people can resume normal activities after one month.

Who Qualifies?

Before embarking on the journey, you must be the correct candidate for surgery. The qualifications include:

A BMI over 35
Weigh under 450 pounds
Inability to achieve weight loss in a healthy way

You have the option to meet with a nutritionist and an exercise specialist both before and after undergoing surgery. They can help you try to lose weight naturally, but also provide follow-up care if you are a candidate for the surgery.

You will also undergo initial screenings before the surgery. This often includes blood tests, an upper endoscopy, and verification of insurance coverage. Assuming all qualifications are met, you can begin the process.

What Questions Should You Ask?

It may help to write down your questions beforehand to ensure you’re confident and leave with the answers you need. Some common questions include:

What are my surgery options?
How long will I recover in the hospital?
How do I maintain weight loss after?
How can I decrease my risk of complications?
What happens if I don’t get the surgery?

Your medical professional can go over any questions you have in detail and reassure you before making a decision. They understand this is a major life decision and want to help you make the best changes for your future.

Seek Out a Professional

No matter what you decide, it’s crucial to speak with experts in the field. This is your health and you can make positive changes today. The healthcare team at Tri State Bariatrics can answer any questions and guide you through the entire process. Schedule an appointment with us to begin your journey.