When is bariatric surgery recommended?

Bariatric surgery is recommended for individuals who are clinically obese, and have been unable to achieve successful weight loss through lifestyle changes or other forms of treatment. The ideal candidate for bariatric surgery has a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater, or a BMI between 35 and 39.9 along with at least one related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease (CAD), GERD, sleep apnea, joint pain/arthritis etc.

It is important to note that bariatric surgery should not be considered as the only approach to achieving effective weight loss; it must be used in conjunction with other lifestyle interventions such as diet and exercise. Additionally, bariatric surgery candidates should understand the potential risks involved in this type of procedure prior to moving forward with it. If you meet the specific criteria outlined above and feel that bariatric surgery could help you reach your goal weight then it might be worth considering after consulting with a healthcare provider who specializes in this field and discussing the available options available.