What is the minimum weight for bariatric surgery?

When diet, exercise, and medication are no longer effective in treating severe obesity, bariatric surgery has been one of the most effective medical solutions for the problem. However, not everyone is eligible for this procedure. The question many patients will always ask themselves is, What is the minimum weight for bariatric surgery? It will depend on your Body Mass Index (BMI), health condition, and special medical requirements. We discuss the type of people who are eligible to undergo this surgery and the considerations of the surgeon before prescribing these surgeries.

Understand the Purpose of Bariatric Surgery:

Bariatric surgery is introduced to help people lose excess body fat by changing their digestive system. It either decreases the capacity of your stomach to take food or decreases the absorption of nutrients, leading to massive and permanent weight loss. The process will not only help in the appearance but also lessen the chance of getting some obesity related illnesses, like:

  • Sleep Apnea.
  • Heart Disease.
  • Type 2 Diabetes.
  • High Blood Pressure.

Minimum Weight and BMI Required for Bariatric Surgery:

Surgeons do not check only the weight to check eligibility, but mostly check your Body Mass Index (BMI), which is a weight-height ratio. You are eligible for bariatric surgery, provided you have one of the following conditions:

  • BMI 40 and Above: this is typically considered to be persons who have masses of 100 pounds and above.
  • BMI 35 to 39.9: You can still be eligible when you are experiencing obesity related illnesses in the form of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or sleep apnea.
  • BMI 30-34: Special procedures can be discussed if patients have severe health conditions, which can be improved under the condition of weight loss.

Simply put, the lowest BMI at which bariatric surgery can take place normally begins when the BMI of a patient reaches 35, and there are medical problems related to it. But it is always up to your surgeon to perform a physical review that will make the final decision.

Key Factor That Determines Eligibility:

You do not need to be eligible to undergo surgery based only on the BMI. Surgeons also consider your fitness and emotional situation, as well as your medical history. The following are some of the considerations:Β 

  • Age and general health.
  • Weight loss efforts over the past.
  • Lifestyle commitment.
  • No addiction to alcohol or drugs.

The surgeon will evaluate all these factors in a pre-surgery consultation, as the surgeon will determine whether or not you are a good candidate.

Popular Types of Bariatric Surgery:

Bariatric surgery comes in a variety of forms, and the correct one will depend on the type of needs and body structure. Common options include:

Gastric Bypass:

Redirects a section of the intestine to consume fewer calories.

Gastric Sleeve:

This surgery makes the stomach size smaller, about 75 percent, and minimizes food consumption.

Adjustable Gastric Band:

A band is placed around the stomach, and it is used to form a smaller pouch.

All procedures possess their own recovery outlook, advantages, and possible minor risks, which your surgeon will discuss with you before the procedure.

Benefits Beyond Weight Loss in Islamabad:

Physical appearance is not the only outcome of bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery by skilled and competent experts is a safe and effective way to a healthy and more satisfying life. Some of the main advantages that the patients will have after the surgery are as follows:

  • Better Management of blood sugar levels
  • Reduced blood pressure and cholesterol.
  • Less pain and fatigue in the joints.
  • Vitality and improved sleep.
  • Increase confidence and psychological health.

Long-term Success Depends on Commitment:

Although bariatric surgery can be used to lose weight in a short period, the results would need effort to sustain them. Balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and follow-up sessions are essential. Patients who require long-term, lifelong changes have an improved outcome and will be in a position to maintain weight loss.

Book Your Consultation!

If you are not able to lose weight and you have to find out whether you fit the minimum weight requirement to undergo bariatric surgery, then schedule an appointment at the Royal Cosmetic Surgery Clinic Islamabad. Our experts will evaluate your health, recommend what is safe, and assist you in maintaining a healthy weight in the long run. Change the world today. Make your reservation now!