Healthy Steps Bariatric and Metabolic Center uses qualification guidelines published by the National Institute of Health, along with other recommendations from national surgical societies. If you are considering bariatric surgery, the following list should be considered as minimum qualifying criteria.

Age:

You should be between 18 and 60 years of age.

Body Mass Index:

Your body mass index (BMI) should be 40 or higher. This usually means you are at least 100 pounds over your ideal body weight. If you have a BMI between 35 and 40 with serious uncontrolled medical conditions related to obesity that would improve with weight loss you may also be eligible.

Serious medical conditions related to obesity include:

  • Hypertension
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Diabetes
  • Sleep apnea
  • Chronic respiratory insufficiency
  • Dependent edema
  • Metabolic syndrome (Syndrome X);
  • Chronic degenerative joint disease of knees, hips, ankles or back (including gouty arthritis)
  • Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD);
  • Chronic depression as a result of obesity
  • Hypercholesterolemia
  • Hypertriglyceridemia
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Recurrent incisional hernias
  • Chronic phlebitis and/or chronic venous insufficiency

Failed Medical or Professionally Supervised Weight Loss Programs

You must have attempted (and failed) previous medical or professionally-supervised weight loss programs. Formalized weight loss programs may include diet, exercise, lifestyle changes, or medications.

Mentally Capable

You must be able to give informed consent for surgery. This means you must be capable of understanding the possible risks, benefits, and side effects of bariatric surgery. Additionally, you should understand the lifestyle changes necessary following bariatric surgery and be committed to making these changes. You should be prepared and able to adhere to long-term follow up after surgery.

Alcoholism, Tobacco and Chemical Dependency/Abuse

You must be free from alcohol, tobacco and chemical dependencies. A history of dependency does not prevent you from having bariatric surgery if you have been successfully treated and remained drug, alcohol and tobacco free for a prolonged period.

If you think you qualify for bariatric surgery, congratulations! Now move on to step 2 – sign up for a free bariatric surgery seminar.