More than one-third of adults in the United States are considered obese according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Excessive weight gain is caused by a variety of factors,from food choices to health conditions. There are many different ways to combat obesity. For most patients, particularly those who have been battling with obesity for many years, weight loss surgery is the only effective means of achieving and sustaining long-term weight loss. This procedure, also called bariatric surgery, can help patients lose a significant amount of weight and keep it off. Different types of weight loss surgeries cause restriction, malabsorption, and hormonal changes to patients’ stomachs so that they either eat less, absorb fewer calories, or feel full faster. So who is eligible for weight loss surgery? Here are three signs that bariatric surgery may be the solution to your weight problem.
1. Other weight loss options haven’t worked for you.
If you feel that you have already tried every kind of diet and exercise solution there is, maybe it is time to look at your weight loss surgery options. Many patients are able to lose weight with dieting and exercise, but are unable to keep the weight off long-term. While weight loss from dieting is often quickly gained back, bariatric surgery typically keeps the weight off for good.
2. Your BMI falls in the ideal range for weight loss surgery.
If you have a BMI, or body mass index, of at least 40, you may be eligible for weight loss surgery. BMI is a measurement of how much of your body weight or mass relates to your height. An BMI between 18 and 25 is considered normal. A BMI over 25 indicates that you are overweight. People with a BMI over 30 are considered obese. Patients with a BMI over 35 with an obesity-related medical condition,or over 40 without any such conditions, are considered to be morbidly obese,and generally will qualify for weight loss surgery. Not sure what your BMI is? Calculate it here.
3. Your weight is causing other health problems.
Obesity can lead to many medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, liver disease, and sleep apnea. If you are overweight, you should be visiting your doctor regularly to check for these conditions. Patients who have these health problems because of their weight may qualify for bariatric surgery. Often these issues improve or disappear following weight loss surgery.
Want to find out if weight loss surgery is right for you?
If you fall under one or a few of these categories, it is likely that you could benefit from weight loss surgery. Bass Medical Group has Northern California’s leading team of bariatric surgeons that can make your weight loss dreams a reality. With dozens of locations across California, there is sure to be a place for weight loss surgery near you. Contact Bass Medical Group today to schedule a consultation.
The Best Bariatric Care in California
BASS Medical Group and Dr. Brian T. Chin offers some of the best bariatric care in northern California. Our team is ready to make you as comfortable as possible during your recovery from your surgery. If you are interested in gastric bypass surgery and want to know more, contact our expert bariatric surgeons to find out if this surgery is right for you.
