Are You A Candidate?

Selection Criteria

There are a number of widely accepted criteria which make a patient suitable for Bariatric or weight loss surgery

• BMI > 40 by itself or BMI >35 if there is an associated obesity illness , such as diabetes or sleep apnea (Recently, the FDA approved Lap Bands for BMI > 30 with one associated co-moribidity or a BMI > 35.)
  
  
• Reasonable attempts at other weight loss techniques
  
  
• Age 18-65
  
  
• Obesity related health problems
  
  
• No psychiatric or drug dependency problems
  
  
• A capacity to understand the risks and commitment associated with the surgery
  
  
• Pregnancy not anticipated in the first two years following surgery

There is considerable flexibility in these guidelines. Patients as young as 12 have been offered surgery. Sometimes a lower BMI between 30-35 is accepted if comorbidities exist.