Are You A Candidate For Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric Surgery
What Do I Need, To Be A Candidate?
In order to be a candidate for weight loss surgery, you will need to meet specific criteria. Some of the requirements are standard for every Bariatric Surgery Program and others are discretionary base on your particular situation.
We will cover most of the requirements below but please remember that this is for information purposes only. You will have to meet with a bariatric surgeon in order to discuss your particular situation and see if you are a true candidate for weight loss surgery.
Dr. Angel Caban will meet with you one on one and go over your past medical history, surgical history, and many other parameters. After evaluating your situation, both of you will put together a plan that will guide you through the entire process. This will be a step-by-step guide to help you understand the before, during and after surgery journey.
In the Spotlight
Standard Parameters
Body Mass Index and Medical Conditions
- BMI of 40 or Higher
- With or Without Medical Conditions
- BMI between 35-39.9
- With Two or More Medical Conditions
- Unsuccessful Attempts at Weight Loss Using Diet and Excercise
Age
- Older than 18 years of age
- Maximum age base on your clinical situation
Standard Parameters
BMI and Medical Conditions
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measurement of your weight and your height. It is an attempt to standardize individuals base on tissue mass. Unfortunately, this is not the best way to qualify patients but it is the industry standard. The BMI doesn’t account for muscle mass, making it unrealistic for individuals with a lot of muscle mass.
You can find many BMI calculators online. Here is a link for a very easy one to use. CLICK HERE
Once you know your BMI now is time to look at your medical history. Not every medical condition will be considered for bariatric surgery purposes. Obesity-related conditions are what you need to look for. They include Type II diabetes, Uncontrolled HTN, Sleep Apnea, High cholesterol or lipid disorders. Congestive Heart Failure, Atrial Fibrillation, COPD, Emphysema, acid reflux, osteoarthritis, fatty liver, cirrhosis and mood disorders just to mention a few.
Base on your BMI you might need at least two of the above-mentioned conditions. If you don’t meet the standard requirements the insurance company won’t see you as a candidate for bariatric surgery and your coverage will be declined.
Multidisciplinary Team
Not A Candidate Yet
Even if you meet the above standard requirements you might not be a candidate for weight loss surgery just yet. In order to undergo bariatric surgery, you will be evaluated by a multidisciplinary team. This most likely will include a referral by the primary care provider, a psychological and a dietician evaluation. A cardiologist and pulmonologist evaluation may be needed as well.
Other studies or procedures may be required to see if you are physically fit to undergo surgery. Commonly obtained studies include an Upper GI Series and/or Endoscopy/Colonoscopy. Sleep Study, H. pylori test, chest X-ray and/or routine blood test.
Many health insurances will also require a medically supervised weight loss program for a period of 3-6 months. This can be done with your primary care provider, a certified dietician, your bariatric surgeon or a weight loss clinic. You will have to follow up with the provider at least once a month for 3-6 months in a row. The visits need to be specific for weight loss.
Every insurance company is different and the requirements can vary. You should contact your insurance carrier and confirmed that you have coverage for bariatric surgery and what the requirements are. If you don’t have the coverage, you have other options for self-pay that we will discuss in another area.
If you have questions or need help with this process feel free to contact Dr. Angel Caban office to speak with his staff.
Articles Of Interest
Our News And Events
Articles of frequently asked questions from our patients. Written in an easy to understand format.
Vomiting After Bariatric Surgery? 7 Reasons Why This Happens
7 Reasons Why This HappensVomiting After Bariatric Surgery?Many patients think that vomiting after bariatric surgery is expected but that is not the case. Most patients don’t experience frequent nausea and/or vomiting after weight loss surgery....
What You Need To Do Before Bariatric Surgery?
What You need to KnowIntroductionIn order to proceed with weight loss surgery, you will have to complete a number of requirements. In this post, I will give you most of the information that you need to do before bariatric surgery. If you...
What Bariatric Surgery is Right for Me?
What You need to Know Why Bariatric Surgery? As we all know Morbid Obesity is a big problem in our country and around the world. Many have tried for years to lose weight. Others have lost a significant amount of weight but are struggling to keep...
Hours of Operation
MON – FRI
8:00am – 12:00pm
1:00pm – 5:00pm
SAT
Closed
SUN
Closed
Drop Us a Line
Don’t be shy. Let us know if you have any questions!