Who Qualifies for Weight Loss Surgery?

Questions

How do I know if I qualify for weight-loss surgery?
I have panic disorder and anxiety. I am seeing a counselor and am taking medication. Does this affect whether or not I can have the surgery performed?
If I have a heart condition, pacemaker and take heart medications, am I still a candidate for weight loss surgery? Are there greater risks for undergoing this type of surgery?
What if I have Crohn’s disease or Irritable Bowel Syndrome; can I still have the surgery?

Answers

How do I know if I qualify for weight-loss surgery?

While each surgery candidate is considered individually, the following are general guidelines for qualification:

Have a body mass index ( BMI ) of 40 or greater, for at least five years; or a BMI of 35 to 39, with significant medical complications related to obesity (such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, diabetes mellitus, osteoarthritis, gastroesophageal reflux/heartburn).
Be between the ages of 18 and 65.
Provide verified documentation of attempted weight reduction through weight loss program participation, including medically supervised programs.
Demonstrate a low probability of success with conventional, non-surgical treatment methods.
Have acceptable risk for surgery, as determined by preoperative medical, surgical and psychological evaluations.
Demonstrate motivation to participate in and comply with all phases of treatment and long-term follow-up.

I have panic disorder and anxiety. I am seeing a counselor and am taking medication. Does this affect whether or not I can have the surgery performed?

All patients in our program undergo an independent psychological evaluation by our psychologists/psychiatrists where these issues are discussed and a recommendation made regarding surgery. Ultimately, the decision regarding eligibility for surgery is made by your surgeon.

If I have a heart condition, pacemaker and take heart medications, am I still a candidate for weight loss surgery? Are there greater risks for undergoing this type of surgery?

Your personal medical history is evaluated and discussed individually with you at your surgical consultation.

What if I have Crohn’s disease or Irritable Bowel Syndrome; can I still have the surgery?

Specific disease states are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.