Suitability for weight loss surgery

The National Institute of Clinical Excellence has outlined a criteria for weight loss surgery, however, the qualifications are not rigid. Surgeons are free to interpret the criteria in their own way, as long as they do so responsibly and within reason.

While different surgeons have different qualifying factors for weight loss surgery, there are generally three criteria which must be met. The first is that the patient must be clinically obese. Obesity is determined by a general physician or health care professional and is based on BMI. Patients can calculate their BMI at home using a simple formula.

The second qualifying factor is that the patient must be experiencing significant health care risks. This can be exhibited by the presence of a life threatening disorder or a strong potential for developing a life threatening disorder in the future. The conditions must be linked to obesity and must be curable in the event of weight loss.

The final criteria is that the patient has tried all conventional means of weight loss with little or no results. This includes diets, exercise, and sometimes dietary medications. This criteria is to ensure that weight loss surgery is being utilised as a last resort.

Weight loss procedures may also be refused in patients who do not exhibit a willingness to alter their lifestyle. Patients must be willing to eat healthy, low calorie foods and avoiding overeating to the best of their ability. They must also be willing to follow exercise plans and meet with the specialist team for follow up sessions.

If the patient’s weight loss procedure will involve dietary supplements or medications, they must exhibit self discipline and a willingness to take the medications on a daily basis. Those who the surgeon does not feel are ready for weight loss surgery may not qualify for the procedure.

Weight loss surgery, like all surgeries, carries some risks of complications. Certain medical conditions could result in a patient not qualifying for a weight loss procedure. These conditions include heart failure, blood clotting problems, diseases of the digestive system, and high blood pressure. Surgeons will work with patients to assist them in weighing the risks and benefits of weight loss surgery.