Weight loss surgery is often toutted as the last resort for those who fail to lose weight in any other way. Famous people who have used various forms of weight loss surgery to lose weight include Roseanne Barr, Al Roker and New Jersey governor, Chris Christie. Is weight loss surgery right for you? The answers to these questions can help you decide whether to consult a doctor about bariatric surgeyr.
What Is Your BMI?
Weight loss surgery isn’t for everyone. One of the biggest determining factors is the degree of obesity. Most doctors reserver bariatric surgeries for patients who have BMI (body mass index) of 40 or higher. Some doctors will consider patients who have a BMI of 35 or greater who are suffering from weight-related illnesses or disorders.
Have You Tried to Lose Weight in the Past?
Generally, the surgery is only an option if you’ve tried and failed to lose weight in the past using more conventional methods. These include making lifestyle changes like eating a healthier diet and including regular physical activity in your daily routine. If diets don’t work for you and you are severely or morbidly obese, weight loss surgery might be for you.
How Old Are You?
Most doctors will only consider bariatric surgery for adults, but it may be an option for adolescents under certain circumstances. In order to be considered a good candidate for weight loss surgery, a teen must have reached their full adult height, have serious problems related to their obesity and be prepared to make the lifestyle changes required after weight loss surgery.
Are You Prepared?
Before agreeing to perform surgery for weight loss, your doctor will want to talk to you and determine that:
– you understand the risks associated with weight loss surgery, and know about the potential side effects and complications
– understand the changes that you’ll have to make after surgery
– are prepared to make the majory lifestyle changes required after your surgery
– are able to follow up medically after your surgery
What Are Your Expectations of Weight Loss Surgery?
One of the things the doctor will want to discus with you is your expectations of weight loss after your surgery. It’s important to understand and set realistic goals and expectations. Those goals wil be affected by such things as your body composition, your weight before surgery, your gender, age, race and level of physical activity, and your commitment to weight loss.
If you’re interested in learning more about weight loss surgery, talk to your doctor. He or she will assess whether you’re a good candidate for the surgery and make a referral to a surgeon who specializes in bariatric surgery.