Gastric Bypass Surgery Requirements
Gastric bypass surgery has become a popular weight loss treatment for individuals struggling with obesity. The procedure requires the surgeon to make a small pouch out of part of the stomach and connect it to a lower part of the intestines to reduce the amount of food that is absorbed. It can be a highly effective method for weight loss. A laparoscopic doctor can do this procedure with a small incision and minimal scarring. However, certain requirements are followed to ensure that patients are both physically and psychologically ready to benefit from gastric bypass surgery.
Body Mass Index Requirement
The patient’s body mass index is an important consideration as a requirement for gastric bypass surgery. Body mass index, or BMI, is a formula used to measure body fat relative to other physical metrics. BMI uses the individual’s weight in kilograms, divided by the square of his or her height in meters. This number provides an accurate determination of the amount of body fat. For adults, a BMI over 25 is considered overweight. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, anyone who has a BMI over 30 is considered obese. Individuals who have a BMI over 40 are eligible for gastric bypass surgery.
Health Requirements for Gastric Bypass Surgery
If your BMI index is between 30 and 40, you may meet the requirement for gastric bypass surgery if you also have weight-related health problems, such as diabetes, severe sleep apnea or high blood pressure. The healthcare team will evaluate the patient’s health to determine if the surgery can be done safely and with a reasonable expectation of success. They will ask about eating habits, stress levels, alcohol consumption, smoking, and other factors. The individual is given a thorough physical examination with laboratory tests. Your weight history and past efforts to lose weight will also be recorded. Patients who have some medical conditions, such as blood clots, kidney stones, heart problems or nutritional problems could see their condition worsen with gastric bypass surgery. You should discuss these issues with the physician thoroughly before undergoing the procedure.
Psychological Readiness for Gastric Bypass Surgery
The health team that includes health professionals and psychologists will determine if the patient is sufficiently motivated to make the lifestyle changes that are necessary to succeed in weight management with bypass surgery. Any underlying psychological issues are treated to increase patients’ odds for success after surgery.
Age Requirements for Gastric Bypass Surgery
Generally, gastric bypass surgery is only approved for individuals over the age of 18. The procedures are not recommended for children under the age of 18 because of problems that are related to the changes in structure and metabolism that occur in younger patients.
Gastric bypass surgery can be an effective weight loss treatment for obesity. Your health team at Long Island Laparoscopic Doctors can provide careful monitoring before, during and after surgery to ensure your success.