The Eligibility Criteria for Bariatric Surgery

Also known as gastric bypass, bariatric surgery is an umbrella term for weight loss surgery that assists in weight-loss via a procedure that changes a person’s digestive system. There are many different types of bariatric procedures, some of which alter the stomach’s food holding capacity while others reduce the nutrient absorption capacity of the body. There are also procedures that offer a combination of both. 

Besides being highly effective, bariatric surgery is not a recommended solution for everyone. It is a major surgery involving some risks and side effects. Therefore all those planning to undergo bariatric surgery in Hyderabad or elsewhere must know that there are some qualifications that must be met for one to be considered eligible for the bariatric procedure. 

Who is eligible for bariatric surgery?

Below mentioned are the qualifications for bariatric surgery according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (AMBS):

• A BMI equal to or more than 40. The person has to be more than 100 pounds. Calculation of BMI is a must. 
• Inability to achieve an ideal weight over a period of time. 
• A BMI equal to or greater than one or more obesity-related comorbidities such as stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, type 2 diabetes, etc.
• The surgery is meant for individuals who are willing to make lifestyle changes post the procedure. Patients will also have to go for follow-up visits with the nutritionist, mental health professional, and an exercise physiologist.  

 Who is not eligible for bariatric surgery?

The candidate planning to undergo bariatric surgery will need to undergo an extensive pre-surgery screening process which is inclusive of a consultation with a team of professionals, including a dietician, doctor, surgeon, and psychologist. These experts assess your weight history, eating habits, diet attempts, and stress among other factors. They also evaluate the health history of the patient such as heart problems, blood clots, nutritional deficiencies, or kidney stones. Any of the pre-mentioned conditions may be enough to make a person ineligible for bariatric surgery. 

Your mental health conditions also matter here along with whether or not you have a history of substance abuse, binge-eating disorder, major depression, anxiety, severe bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or issues pertaining to childhood sexual abuse. 

Even after you get approval for bariatric surgery from your doctor; it can get cancelled if the team of doctors finds that:

• You have gained more weight during your evaluation.
• You are not medically or psychologically prepared for the surgery. 
• You have not made the required diet or exercise changes. 

Whether you need to consult a critical care doctor in Hyderabad or some other specialist, make sure that you do your research and choose only the best.