To be a candidate for weight loss surgery, you must be morbidly obese. There are several medically accepted criteria for defining morbid obesity. You are likely morbidly obese if you:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40;
- Have a BMI over 35 and are experiencing negative health effects related to obesity, such as high blood pressure or diabetes;
- Are more than 100 lbs. over your ideal body weight; or
- Are unable to achieve a health body weight for a sustained period of time, even through medically supervised dieting.
Additionally, you must meet the following criteria to qualify for weight loss surgery. Each patient must:
- Be between the ages of 18 and 65
- Have a low probability of success with non-surgical treatment
- Be an acceptable operative risk
- Have a high probability of success with surgery
- Have motivation and an absence of ongoing psychosis or substance abuse
- Have a willingness to actively participate
- Understand the risks, benefits and requirements for follow-up
Only you, your doctor and Presbyterian Bariatric Center can determine if you meet all of the criteria for weight loss surgery. Attending one of our seminars can help you decide if weight loss surgery is right for you. Please understand that if you want to proceed with bariatric surgery, you will be required to attend one of our "Surgical Solutions " seminars.
Whether you want to learn more about weight loss surgery or are ready to move forward with the process, call 704-384-CARE (2273) to register for a surgical weight loss seminar.
