Bariatric Surgery: How to Know if You’re A Good Candidate

By: Dr. Donna Powell & Dr. Renee M. Marchioni Beery

A journey toward sustainable weight loss and improved health could lead you down the road of various options. For some, bariatric surgery becomes a consideration. Bariatric surgery is a procedure that alters the digestive system to assist in weight loss. It can be a transformative step for those struggling with obesity. In this blog, experts with Gastro MD will get into the basics of bariatric surgery, its potential benefits, and how to determine if you might be a good candidate for this life-changing procedure.

Understanding Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery encompasses a number of procedures designed to help with weight loss by restricting the amount of food the stomach can hold and altering the digestive process. The most common types include gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, and adjustable gastric banding. These surgeries not only reduce the size of the stomach but can also impact hormones related to hunger and metabolism, leading to significant weight loss.

Who Can Benefit from Bariatric Surgery?

While bariatric surgery can be a powerful tool for weight loss, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Candidates for bariatric surgery typically share certain characteristics and have struggled with obesity-related health issues. Here are some factors that may indicate you are a candidate:

1. Body Mass Index (BMI)

A BMI of 40 or higher is often an indication for bariatric surgery. In some cases, individuals with a BMI between 35 and 40 may be considered if they have obesity-related health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea.

2. Obesity-Related Health Conditions

Bariatric surgery is often recommended for individuals with obesity-related health issues who have not responded well to other weight loss methods. Some of the common conditions for people who might be good candidates include those with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and joint problems.

3. Previous Weight Loss Efforts

Candidates for bariatric surgery have typically tried a number of ways to lose weight through diet and exercise without success. Bariatric surgery is considered when other weight loss methods have not provided the desired results.

4. Commitment to Lifestyle Changes

Bariatric surgery is most successful when there is a commitment to other long-term lifestyle changes. Candidates should be willing to abide by a healthier diet, regular exercise, and ongoing medical monitoring to maximize the benefits of the surgery.

5. Psychological Evaluation

A thorough psychological evaluation will likely be part of the pre-surgical assessment. This helps ensure that candidates have realistic expectations, understand the lifestyle changes required, and are mentally prepared for their post-surgery journey.

Bariatric surgery is a significant decision that can lead to transformative changes in one’s health and well-being. If you find yourself struggling with obesity and its associated health issues despite earnest efforts to lose weight, bariatric surgery may be a viable option. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if you meet the criteria for candidacy and to explore the potential benefits and risks associated with this life-changing procedure. Remember, bariatric surgery is just one tool in the comprehensive approach to weight loss and improved health, and a supportive healthcare team can guide you through the entire process.

For more on gut health and diabetes, contact Gastro MD. We are a cutting-edge clinical gastroenterology practice that sets the standard in digestive health care.