Obesity is a growing concern worldwide, and it can lead to various health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. For people who have tried to lose weight through diet and exercise without success, weight loss surgery may be an option. But how do you know if you are a candidate for weight loss surgery? In this article, we will explore the different types of weight loss surgery and what you should consider when deciding if it is right for you.

What is Weight Loss Surgery?

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is a type of procedure that helps people with obesity to lose weight. During the surgery, a doctor makes changes to the stomach or digestive system to help a person eat less and absorb fewer calories from food. Depending on the type of surgery, the stomach may be made smaller, or the small intestines bypassed so that fewer calories are absorbed. However, it is important to choose a reputable weight loss clinic in St Louis as they can provide the best care and outcomes. The goal of weight loss surgery is not only to reduce weight but to improve overall health and quality of life.

Types of Weight Loss Surgery

There are several types of surgical procedures used in treating obesity. Some common procedures include:

1. Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting food around part of the small intestine.

2. Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy involves removing part of the stomach and creating a new tube-shaped stomach that’s much smaller than before.

3. Adjustable Gastric Banding

Adjustable gastric banding involves placing an inflatable band around the top portion of your stomach, which limits how much food you can eat at one time.

Am I a Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?

Weight loss surgery can be an effective treatment for obesity and can help improve a person’s overall health. However, it is important to understand that weight loss surgery is not a quick fix and requires dedication to making lifestyle changes. Before considering weight loss surgery, it’s important to talk to your doctor and make sure you are a suitable candidate. Generally, candidates for weight loss surgery should:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35 or higher with an obesity-related health condition such as diabetes, sleep apnea, etc.
  • Have failed to achieve significant weight loss with other methods such as diet and exercise.
  • Be committed to making lifestyle changes.
  • Be free from any health problems to make the surgery safe.

Additionally, your doctor may require you to complete a psychological evaluation before approval. It will further help you to know whether insurance cover weight loss surgery so that you can plan your finances accordingly. The key is to talk to a professional and understand if weight loss surgery is right for you.

To Conclude

Weight loss surgery can be a powerful tool to help people with obesity lose weight and improve their health. However, it is important that potential candidates understand that this type of surgery is not a quick fix and requires dedication to making lifestyle changes. If you determine that it is the right option, talk to a qualified doctor and make sure that you are an appropriate candidate before proceeding. Thank you for reading!