Am I Eligible for Surgery?
Candidates for weight loss surgery at Obesity Solutions must meet the following criteria before a surgery date can be set:
• Have a body mass index (BMI) of at least 40, or 35 with comorbidities (serious obesity-related health problems), such as coronary artery disease, hypertension, osteoarthritis, diabetes, sleep apnea, gastroesophageal reflux disease, restrictive airway disease, venous stasis disease, hypercholestremia, depression, or anxiety disorders.
• No prior gastric bypass weight loss surgery. Patients who have had previous weight loss surgery must contact the clinical coordinator and may be accepted for revisional surgery on a case-by-case basis
• No current evidence of alcohol or drug abuse or active eating disorder.
• No recent history of steroid therapy (such as prednisone) or have Systemic Lupus Erythematosis (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, or other collagen vascular disease.
• Complete a thorough physical exam with their primary care physician and gained their support for the surgery.
• Undergo a psychological evaluation with our approved psychologist, which includes an individual consultation with a psychotherapist and certain psychological tests. All potential weight loss surgery candidates must comply with any further treatment deemed necessary by the therapist.
• Complete our application package and provided any additional needed paperwork.
• Understand that additional pre- or post-operative tests may be requested to insure optimal outcome, such as a sleep study.
• Meet with the dietician to discuss post-operative diet.
• Have a stable family structure or support system in place with written documentation of that support.
• Pass a written exam using the educational materials provided.
• Write a letter of understanding to show your knowledge of the possible risks and benefits of weight loss surgery, as well as understanding of the life-long dietary changes and lifestyle changes necessary to achieve long-term success.
• Sign a written commitment to maintain long-term follow-up after weight loss surgery.