Explore our advanced surgical options for effective weight loss transformations
Weight-loss surgery encompasses a group of operations that help you lose weight by making changes to your digestive system. It is also known as metabolic and bariatric surgery ("metabolic" means "related to how your body gets energy" and "bariatric" means "related to treatment for heavy weight").
Some types of weight-loss surgery make your stomach smaller, limiting how much you can eat and drink at one time, so you feel full sooner. Other types of weight-loss surgery change your small intestine—the part of your digestive system that absorbs energy and nutrients from foods and beverages. These types of surgery reduce the number of calories the body can absorb. Weight-loss surgery also can affect hormones or bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract in ways that may reduce appetite and hunger and improve how the body metabolizes fat and makes use of insulin.
To qualify for bariatric surgery, typically referred to as weight-loss surgery, you need to meet certain criteria. Here's a summary:
Body Mass Index (BMI) – Above 40 - Generally, you need to have a BMI of 40 or higher to qualify for weight-loss surgery. If your BMI is between 35 and 40, you may qualify if you have significant obesity-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
Even if your BMI is within the qualifying range, you may still need to demonstrate that you have obesity-related health issues that haven't responded well to other treatments. These may include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or others.
You should have a history of attempts to lose weight through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes without long-term success.
Bariatric surgery is not a quick fix; it requires significant lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and regular exercise, for long-term success.
While there's no strict age limit for bariatric surgery, your overall health and ability to tolerate surgery will be considered.
It's important to remember that the specific criteria for bariatric surgery may vary depending on factors such as the type of surgery and guidelines. If you're considering bariatric surgery, it's crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who can assess your individual situation and provide personalized guidance.
