This is one of the most common questions we hear from people researching weight loss surgery. There can be a range of factors that contribute to an inability to lose excess weight including genetics, psychological disorders conditions and medical conditions. Your eligibility for weight loss surgery will ultimately depend not just on your size, but your entire medical history and current emotional state. Your eligibility will ultimately be determined by your bariatric surgeon.

What qualifies as obesity?

A GP can formally diagnose you with an obesity condition, but there are some basic widely accepted criteria that can be used to check if you are a candidate for surgery. These criteria are based on the Body Mass Index (BMI) system, but a detailed medical history and thorough physical examination will be needed from a surgeon before surgery is assigned.

Weight loss surgery criteria

• The 2022 ASMBS/IFSO guidelines recommend surgery from BMI 35, and say it should be considered at BMI 30–34.9 with metabolic disease. Eligibility is decided after individual assessment by a surgeon.
• Reasonable attempts at other weight loss techniques
• Age 16-65
• Obesity-related health problems
• A capacity to understand the risks and commitment associated with the surgery

These are basic guidelines and there is flexibility exercised with each patient.

Weight Loss Surgery evaluation

Before bariatric surgery, your surgeon will need to assess you physically, mentally and emotionally. This will include in-depth discussions about your complete weight loss history, diets, eating habits and any disorders you’ve suffered. Essentially, weight loss surgery will limit the amount of food you can eat. Because the shape and function of your digestive system will be changed, it’s important you understand the impact this surgery will have on your life. This is also why your mental health will undergo an assessment. Your team will want to understand your motivation as well as identify any behavioural or psychological risk factors. Conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mood disorders could have contributed to your obesity, so your surgical team will need to make sure they will not inhibit your ability to follow post-surgery diet instructions.

Why consider weight loss surgery?

For some people, bariatric surgery and lifestyle changes may improve health conditions linked with obesity. Outcomes vary, and all surgery carries risks.

Check if you are eligible with Winnett Specialist Group

If you would like to book a consultation, get in touch with our team by calling 03 9417 1555 or contact us online.