Bariatric Surgical Candidate Criteria

The following factors will be considered in determining if you are a candidate for bariatric surgery:

  • You have tried to lose weight by changing your eating habits and exercise and are still severely obese.
  • You are unable to perform routine daily activities without being seriously affected.
  • You understand the procedure and the lifestyle changes you will need to make after bariatric surgery.
  • You are motivated to make a lifelong behavioral commitment that includes well-balanced meals and physical exercise.
  • You understand that this surgery won't solve all your problems, but can make you healthier -- and probably much happier.

Before patients undergo surgery for morbid obesity, they must qualify for our bariatrics program. Our basic program guidelines are:

  • Being 100 pounds or more over your "ideal body weight," according to the established weight charts.
  • Having a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 40 with no co-morbidities or greater than 35 with serious co-morbidities.
  • Being able and willing to make the necessary lifestyle changes.

BMI Categories:

Underweight: less than18.5
Normal: 18.5-24.9
Overweight: 25.0-29.9
Obesity (Class 1): 30-34.9
Severe obesity (Class 2): 35-39.9
Severe obesity (Class 3): 40-49.9
Super-obesity: over 50