Am I a Candidate?

Bariatric surgery is one of the most effective ways to lose weight and treat health-related complications. But you may be surprised to learn that qualifications for bariatric surgery are not based on weight alone. There are several factors involved.

Your health care provider can discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery and whether it is right for you.

While weight loss surgery can transform lives, it is not for everyone. Read on to learn if bariatric surgery is right for you.

Bariatric Surgery Qualifications

Weight loss surgery is often considered when efforts to lose weight through exercise, diet and medications are unsuccessful. The surgery may also help with weight- or obesity-related conditions.

However, bariatric surgery is not for everyone with weight issues. You will need to meet specific guidelines to qualify for the procedure and undergo a screening process to determine your candidacy. You will also need to be willing to change your lifestyle, which involves watching your condition, nutrition and behavior.

You may be a candidate for surgical weight loss if you meet any of the following criteria:

• You are more than 100 pounds or 45 kilograms over your ideal body weight.
• You have a body mass index (BMI) of more than 40.
• You have a BMI of more than 35 and have one serious health condition related to your weight, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, heart disease or gallbladder disease. (NOTE: Some insurances will allow evaluation of patients with a BMI of 30-35 with one serious health condition related to your weight.) Use the BMI Calculator to check your BMI.
• You have a family history of obesity or severe obesity.
• You cannot lose and maintain a healthy body weight for a sustained period, even with medically supervised dieting and exercise programs.
• Adolescents, or teens, may qualify for bariatric surgery. Learn more about the adolescent bariatric surgery program.
• You are seeking revisional surgery for a prior weight loss surgery.

Start Your Journey

Every weight loss journey is different. We encourage you to review the Bariatric Surgery Journey, so you understand what to expect before, during and after weight loss surgery. We look forward to working with you to get you on the path to living your happiest and healthiest life safely and efficiently.

If you are ready to begin your weight loss journey, find a bariatric surgeon near you.

Our Expert Bariatric Team

Bariatric surgery needs a multidisciplinary approach to obesity care. The Banner Health weight loss team offers compassionate, comprehensive and advanced care. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the safest, most successful bariatric patient experience possible.

Surgery is only one part of that care. Equally important is the education, lifelong follow up and support our team provides. Our team partners with you to achieve your weight loss goals and improve your quality of life.

Your team will involve a surgeon or surgeons, obesity medicine doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses, dietitians, behavioral health specialists, support staff, medical assistants and some specialists in cardiology, pulmonology and sleep medicine. We are all working together with you on your care.