Gastric Band Surgery Requirements
According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. For some people, attempts to diet and exercise just do not help them keep the weight off. Gastric band surgery is a medical procedure that can help patients achieve a healthy weight. However, not everyone is qualified for gastric band surgery. Your weight loss clinic will help you weigh the risks and benefits of surgery to make an informed choice.
What is Gastric Band Surgery?
Gastric band surgery, also known as laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, is a way to reduce the physical size of the stomach. This allows patients to better limit the number of calories they consume. During the procedure, your laparoscopic doctor will place an adjustable silicone band around the stomach. This band squeezes the upper part of the stomach, limiting the amount of food that can fit. After gastric band surgery, your stomach will hold approximately 1 ounce of food.
Gastric band surgery is an effective form of weight loss treatment for those who comply with post-treatment requirements. By limiting the size of the stomach, it permits fewer calories to be consumed and stimulates weight loss. However, gastric band surgery is not for everyone. Your weight loss doctor will carefully review your medical history to ensure it is the best procedure for you.
Long Island Gastric Band Surgery Requirements
The National Institutes of Health are responsible for promoting the health of Americans, including researching the most effective forms of weight loss surgery. To keep patients safe, the NIH has set forth criteria for individuals to qualify for weight loss surgery. These include:
- Body mass index (BMI) over 40. BMI is a measure of body weight relative to height. A BMI greater than 40 puts an individual in the extreme obesity range.
- BMI higher than 35 with co-occurring medical conditions. These co-occurring health problems related to significant obesity may include heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.
- Previous unsuccessful attempts for the patient to lose weight. Because gastric band surgery is a significant medical procedure, it is important to try non-invasive treatments first. Gastric band surgery is only appropriate for those who have tried and failed to lose weight through conventional means (e.g., diet and exercise).
- Obtaining a 5-year weight history
- Psychiatric evaluation to make sure the patient is able to comply with treatment recommendations and cope with post-surgical changes.
- Nutritional evaluation to assess dietary habits, informing post-surgery care.
Some individuals with a BMI in the 30 to 34 range may qualify for gastric band surgery. However, this is limited to those who have serious weight-related health problems. If you think gastric band surgery may help you, contact the weight loss clinic today to see if you qualify.