Bariatric Surgery Qualification Criteria: Are you a candidate?

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Gulf Coast Bariatrics of Fort Myers, follows qualification guidelines published by the National Institute of Health along with other recommendations from national surgical societies.

Please keep in mind that each person’s situation is unique and it is difficult to give a list of criteria that apply to everyone. If you have questions regarding your eligibility for bariatric surgery, we are always available to answer your questions.

If you are considering bariatric surgery, the following list should be considered as minimum qualifying criteria.

Body Mass Index:

Your body mass index (BMI) should be 40 or higher. This usually means you are at least 100 pounds over your ideal body weight. If you have a BMI between 35 and 40  with serious medical conditions related to obesity that would improve with weight loss you may also be eligible. You can use this calculator to find out your BMI.

Serious medical conditions elated to obesity include:

  • Hypertension
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Diabetes
  • Sleep apnea
  • Chronic respiratory insufficiency
  • Dependant edema
  • Metabolic syndrome (Syndrome X);
  • Chronic degenerative joint disease of knees, hips, ankles or back (including gouty arthritis)
  • Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD);
  • Chronic depression as a result of obesity
  • Hypercholesterolemia
  • Hypertriglyceridemia;
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Recurrent incisional hernias
  • Chronic phlebitis and/or chronic venous insufficiency

Failed Medical or Professionally Supervised Weight Loss Programs

You must have attempted (and failed) previous medical or professionally supervised weight loss program. Formalized weight loss programs may include diet, exercise, lifestyle changes, or medications.

Mentally Capable

You must be able to give informed consent for surgery. This means you must be capable of understanding the possible risks, benefits, and side effects of bariatric surgery. Additionally, you should understand the lifestyle changes necessary following bariatric surgery and be committed to making these changes.  You should be prepared and able to adhere to  long-term follow up after surgery.

Alcoholism, Chemical Dependency, or Chemical Abuse.

You must be free from alcohol or chemical dependency. A history of dependency does not prevent you from having bariatric surgery if you have been successfully treated and remained drug or alcohol free for a prolonged period.