Am I a Candidate for Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery? Interested in undergoing weight loss surgery?
The following information is a good starting point, but to be sure you are a candidate we suggest you to contact us in order to review your specific situation and medical history. It is in our best interest to help you with your weight issues, but before we can think of making a profit, we think about the most important factor: YOUR WELL-BEING!
Criteria for laparoscopic weight loss surgery (Gastric Sleeve in Mexico and Lap Band in Mexico)
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), patients are candidates for weight loss surgery if they meet all or most of the following criteria:
-
Morbidly obese (BMI > 40 kg/m2 or BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 with co-morbidities).
-
Have failed to lose weight with diet and exercise.
-
Are prepared to change their eating habits.
-
Do not abuse any substances (drugs/alcohol).
-
Are well educated on their treatment options.
-
Are in good mental health.
-
Have acceptable operative risks.
Criteria for the Lap Band:
On February 2011, the FDA approved the expanded use of the Lap Band for individuals with a BMI over 30 and at least one obesity-related condition.
Lap band surgery should be considered as a good option for patients whose BMI is not too high.
Classification of Obesity according to BMI
Numerous therapeutic approaches to obesity have been advocated, including a low calorie diet, medication, behavioral modification and exercise therapy.
However, the only treatment proven to work in long-term management of morbid obesity is weight loss surgery.
Surgically induced weight loss is associated with resolution or substantial improvement of co-morbid diseases in 75–100% of patients and reduced mortality when compared to medically treated patients.
