Not everyone qualifies for gastric bypass surgery. To be eligible for this weight-loss surgery, you have to meet certain criteria. This article discusses the eligibility requirements for gastric bypass surgery.

Your Body Mass Index (BMI) Is Above 40

Your BMI is a measure of your body fat with your height and weight as the primary variables. BMI of 18.5–24.9 is considered healthy, 25–29.9 is overweight, and 30.0–39.9 is obese. Typically, a BMI of over 40 indicates severe obesity. If your BMI is 40 or higher, you may be a good candidate for gastric bypass surgery. The surgery involves making changes to the digestive system. During the procedure, the surgeon reduces the size of the stomach so that you feel full after eating only a small amount of food. The surgeon creates a small pouch in the stomach and connects it directly to the small intestine. That way, food bypasses a large section of the intestine, which means the body absorbs fewer calories from food. By surgically altering the stomach and intestine, you can lose a significant percentage of your excess body weight.

You Have a Health Condition Related to Your Weight

Obesity is more than just a cosmetic issue. It's a serious condition that can lead to many health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. If you have a weight-related health condition, gastric bypass surgery may be the right solution. The surgery can improve or resolve many obesity-related health conditions. For example, gastric bypass surgery can help you achieve lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. After the surgery, you may still need to see your doctor so they can monitor your health condition regularly, but you should be able to lead a healthier life.

You Have Tried and Failed to Lose Weight Through Other Methods

If you've tried to lose weight through diet and exercise without much success, you could be eligible for gastric bypass surgery. The surgery is not a quick fix, but it can be an effective way to lose weight and keep it off. Keep in mind that even after the surgery, you may need to change your lifestyle to maintain your weight loss. You will need to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. In addition, you will need to see a surgeon for follow-up care. The surgeon will monitor your weight during these follow-up visits and assess your recovery.

If you are willing to make the necessary changes, gastric bypass surgery can be a successful way to lose weight and improve your health.