Who is a Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?

If you have tried unsuccessfully multiple times to lose weight by other means, you may be a candidate for weight loss surgery.

However, this surgery is not appropriate for everyone. To qualify for weight loss surgery, you need to have a body-mass index (BMI) of 40 or more. You may also qualify if you have a BMI of 35 or more plus a serious health problem such as diabetes. Your overall health must be good enough to endure surgery.

Body Mass Index

Healthcare professionals use body mass index (BMI) as the standard to determine whether a person is overweight or obese. Using a mathematical equation, BMI shows the ratio between a person's height and weight. An adult with a BMI of 25 to 29 is considered overweight. A BMI of 30 is obese and morbid obesity starts at a BMI of 40. You can determine your BMI by viewing this chart.

BMI for children and teens (2-20 years) is plotted on age and gender specific growth charts.

Your Baylor healthcare professional can work with you to determine your BMI and develop an appropriate weight loss management plan.