When to Consider Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery) is becoming increasingly popular in the United States. You have more surgical options than ever before. 

And according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, weight loss surgery is the most effective, most long-lasting treatment for severe obesity.

But even though it’s very safe, weight loss surgery is only recommended for certain people. Like any other medical procedure, it is limited to patients who meet certain criteria.

If you're carrying excess weight, you may wonder whether weight loss surgery is right for you. Should you consider it? Do its benefits outweigh any potential risks? Will it improve your health?

You have questions, and our experienced providers at Peachtree Surgical & Bariatrics in Atlanta, Georgia, have answers. We’re happy to help you decide whether weight loss surgery might be the right treatment for you.

Read on to learn about some of the considerations we take into account before recommending weight loss surgery to our patients.

Your weight

Weight loss surgery isn't for people who want to lose a few pounds so they can fit into the jeans they wore in high school. Rather, it is a medical treatment for people who are overweight enough that their excess weight interferes with their health.

Generally, we consider weight loss surgery for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher. Or if you have serious weight-related health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, you may qualify for weight loss surgery if your BMI is 35 or higher.

To determine your BMI, use this handy BMI calculator from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

Your health

Weight loss surgery can have a dramatic impact on your health. In fact, bariatric surgery may reduce your risk of premature death by as much as 30-50%.

Some of the conditions that could benefit from weight loss surgery include:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Unhealthy cholesterol levels
• Urinary incontinence
• Orthopedic pain (hip, back, knee)

Your weight loss struggle

Exercise and healthy eating are excellent ways to manage your weight. But some people can't get to their goal weight through lifestyle changes alone. Weight loss surgery can help jump-start lifestyle change-based weight loss. 

Your commitment to your health

Weight loss surgery isn't a miracle cure. It does make weight loss easier, but success depends on your taking an active role in your own well-being after your surgery.

To achieve long-term weight loss, you need to follow up surgery with a commitment to living an active, healthy life. We support you post-surgery with nutrition education and fitness advice, but it’s up to you to commit to a lifetime of good health.

Are you ready to make a change?

We’re happy to meet with you to determine whether weight loss surgery is the right choice for you. We evaluate your situation and make a recommendation based on your health, readiness, and weight loss goals.

If you are a candidate for surgery, we talk with you about the various types of surgical options available and work with you to choose the procedure that best aligns with your needs. 

To schedule an evaluation, contact us to request an appointment.