Qualifications for surgery include:

• Body Mass Index of 40 (approximately 100 pounds over ideal body weight) or BMI of 35 and associated co-morbidities (medical problems associated with and/or caused by obesity). See our BMI calculator below.
• Significant previous efforts at weight loss have been made. Preferably, these attempts have been in nutritionally safe and medically or peer supervised programs.
• You have no uncorrected metabolic disease that may cause obesity.
• You have no other serious medical condition(s) that would make surgery too hazardous.
• You have no unstable or untreated psychological illnesses and/or unrealistic expectations of surgery and weight loss.
• You have not abuse addictive drugs or alcohol - preferably for 12 months.
• You possess sufficient motivation to make the LIFELONG changes in eating habits and exercise required for success post bariatric surgery.
• You are willing to make a formal commitment to the bariatric surgical procedure of your choosing and to yourself.
  
  Note:  Some insurance companies require patients to undergo a six-month supervised weight loss program.  Please ask your insurance carrier for their requirements. 

These points are a guideline only.  They serve to address the major areas of interest that we explore in determining if you are a good candidate for bariatric surgery. If you think you qualify for bariatric treatment and would like to learn more about our program, please contact our bariatric program coordinator at 776-5359.