July 26, 2021
Weight loss surgery delivers tangible results, which is why most people struggling to lose excess weight consider it to be a lifesaver. While the benefits are huge and enduring, not everyone is a candidate for weight loss surgery. A decision to proceed with surgery should only be taken after careful evaluation, which includes consulting a weight loss doctor to discuss your condition. In this blog, we help you answer the question, “Is weight loss surgery for me?”
What are the basic guidelines?
There are some basic guidelines that help determine who is and isn’t a candidate for weight loss surgery. A patient is a candidate for weight loss surgery if they:
- Have a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 and above, or 35-40 with at least one underlying medical condition related to obesity.
- Have a BMI of 30 and above accompanied by uncontrolled Type II Diabetes.
- Are committed to long-term lifestyle changes and follow-ups with the surgeon.
- Have made an unsuccessful attempt at weight loss through avenues such as exercise and dieting.
Common Medical Concerns
A weight loss surgeon will conduct a medical exam to ascertain whether or not a patient has any obesity-related medical conditions and problems that could complicate the surgery. The exam may include testing for the following diseases and conditions:
- Liver disease
- Cardiovascular disease
- Kidney disease
- Sleep apnea
- Severe heart disease capable of compromising the safety of anesthesia
- Blood clotting disorders
Lifestyle Changes and Readiness
Successful weight loss surgery demands a raft of lifestyle changes including eating habits and exercise. It is also crucial to be in the best mental health to cope with post-surgery demands. Things that can compromise surgery results in a variety of ways include eating disorders, alcohol and drug use, mood disorders, and a general lack of motivation. In this regard, the weight loss surgeon and other medical professionals will work with you to come up with a customized exercise plan, nutrition guideline, access to the right therapy, and embark on a program to quit smoking.
Let’s Talk Weight Loss Surgery
If you are looking for a proven way to lose weight and reclaim good health, weight loss surgery may just be right for you. Consult our team of seasoned weight loss surgeons to discuss whether or not weight loss surgery is good for you and also evaluate the different available options. DFW Bariatrics is a leading light when it comes to minimally invasive surgical treatments for weight loss. To talk to one of our weight loss doctors, call 469-620-0222 or email [email protected].