Am I a Candidate?
Are You a Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?
As we all know, carrying extra pounds can be detrimental to both our health and our self-image. Many people are able to control weight problems with diet and exercise. But for some people, such modifications are just not enough to successfully lose the weight and keep it off. These people may be candidates for bariatric weight loss surgery. Read below for a detailed explanation of the criteria that is used to determine eligibility for a surgical weight loss procedure, such as Gastric Bypass, LAP-BAND®, and REALIZE® Band.
Who Is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is more than just an operation to “look good” – it’s a lifelong commitment to better health. Candidates for these procedures typically meet certain guidelines and eligibility requirements. Bariatric surgery candidates are people who:
- Are 100 pounds or more overweight;
- Are at least 75 pounds overweight and have at least one major obesity-related health problem such as Type 2 Diabetes;
- Or have a body mass index of over 35.
- Have been overweight or obese for at least five years
- Have been unsuccessful with multiple attempts at weight loss through diet and exercise
- Understand that lifelong diligence and discipline are required to maintain weight loss and health benefits
- Are physically capable of enduring abdominal surgery
- Are willing to change their lifestyle and health habits
- Have realistic expectations for treatment outcome
- Exhibit emotional stability
- Understand and follow nutritional requirements to avoid malnutrition after surgery
Every patient is different. If you are interested in bariatric surgery and feel that you may be a candidate, please contact Dr. Wagner today to discuss your weight and health goals.
*At this time, Dr. Wagner is not accepting Medicare or Medicaid reimbursement.