Healthy Tidbits

With You All The Way


Am I a Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?

Jun 30, 2014

If you are overweight and have been struggling for many years in an effort to find something – anything – that can help you drop the pounds, you understand the frustration of fighting a battle over which you seem to have little control. One diet after another, exercise routines, a history of stopping and starting, and jumping on board the next fad that takes the internet by storm; all with the hope that this next thing will be the miracle that somehow changes your life, thus allowing you to slim down and finally stick to something that may bring you health and happiness.

Weight loss is a challenge; no one would ever choose to struggle. Those who are overweight – considered obese – are at risk for a host of medical conditions and the longer they stay overweight, the more at risk they become for declining health. Faced with such a situation, many people may consider weight loss surgery – including Lap-BandⓇ surgery, Gastric Bypass, and Sleeve Gastrectomy. These state-of-the-art procedures offer hope for the many millions who struggle with their weight and the many health conditions that happen as a result. So how do you know if you’re a candidate for weight loss surgery?

  • Every case is different and it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor to discuss your very individual situation, but typically speaking if you are man who is 100 lbs. or more – or a woman with 80 lbs. or more – above what is considered to be your ideal body weight, you may be a candidate for weight loss surgery.
  • Obesity comes down to more than just body weight; Body Mass Index (BMI) is also a consideration. BMI calculates body weight by body height. Those who have a BMI of over 35 are considered to be candidates for weight loss surgery.
  • If you’ve tried a variety of medically-supervised weight loss strategies, but have been unable to maintain your weight loss, you may be a candidate for weight loss surgery.
  • If you suffer from a variety of medical conditions – such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and more – as a direct result of your weight, then your doctors may determine that you are an excellent candidate for weight loss surgery.
  • You understand how weight loss surgery works and what changes you will need to make in order to support your ongoing success.

Click on our Candidate Pre-Screening page to calculate your BMI and contact us today at The Nicholson Clinic to discuss your options for weight loss surgery.