Bariatric surgery is a well-known and effective approach for tackling excess body weight. If you’re considering weight loss surgery in Denver offers excellent surgical options and renowned private practices. Bariatric surgery alters the digestive system to assist with weight loss, and it’s often recommended when strict diet plans and exercise alone aren’t enough to manage weight. For some individuals, weight-related health issues may make surgery the only viable option. However, as straightforward as it might sound, bariatric surgery isn’t an option for everyone. There are specific factors that determine whether someone is eligible for this procedure.
Why Consider Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is commonly recommended for those looking to lose weight and eliminate the risks associated with weight-related, life-threatening health conditions. These include:
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cancer
- Stroke
- Sleep apnea
- Fatty liver (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
When traditional weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, have failed to make a significant impact, bariatric surgery becomes a viable option.
Who is Eligible for Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is typically an option for individuals who meet certain medical criteria:
- BMI of 40 or higher: This falls into the category of severe obesity.
- BMI between 35 and 39.9, combined with serious health issues related to weight, such as:
○ High blood pressure
○ Severe sleep apnea
○ Type 2 diabetes
○ Heart disease
- In rare cases, individuals with a BMI between 30 and 34 may qualify if they have severe, weight-related health challenges.
- Documented weight loss attempts: A history of trying to manage weight through exercise and supervised dietary programs.
- No active drug addiction, alcoholism, or severe psychiatric conditions.
It’s essential to note that bariatric surgery isn’t for everyone struggling with excess weight. Candidates must meet specific medical guidelines to qualify for the surgery. Additionally, they must be prepared for permanent lifestyle changes and adopt healthier habits.
The eligibility criteria for bariatric surgery are based on standards set by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH). After the surgery, regular follow-ups are required to monitor your health, lifestyle changes, and nutrition. Although bariatric surgery can be expensive, with the right health insurance coverage, it becomes much more accessible. If you’re considering weight loss surgery, Denver is a great place to start, with experienced surgeons who assess factors like your general health and age to determine eligibility.
Screening Process for Weight Loss Surgery
Before undergoing bariatric surgery, you’ll go through a comprehensive screening process. Once your general health is confirmed to be stable for surgery, the next step is a nutritional assessment. The surgical team will review your reports and assess whether you’re an ideal candidate based on your physical condition, activity levels, eating habits, emotional health, and other health factors.
Sometimes, surgery may not produce optimal results, and in such cases, the medical team may recommend an alternative type of surgery or other weight loss solutions.
Depending on your situation, you might be asked to follow certain pre-surgery guidelines, such as attending counseling, undergoing physical therapy, or losing weight before your surgery. These steps are meant to give you the best possible chance of success, both in terms of weight loss and recovery.
Pre-Surgical Screening
Since bariatric surgery will significantly change your relationship with food, it’s essential to undergo a psychological evaluation before the procedure. Mental health professionals will evaluate whether surgery is the right choice for you. The evaluation will assess:
- Your current psychological condition
- Eating habits and food behaviors
- History of any psychiatric disorders
- Previous dieting history
- Records of past weight loss attempts
- Whether you lead a sedentary or active lifestyle
This psychological screening ensures that you’re mentally prepared for the changes surgery will bring and that you’ll be able to adjust to a healthier, more active lifestyle afterward.
Conclusion
If you’re considering bariatric surgery, Denver is an ideal location, offering a wide range of clinics, excellent surgical teams, and comprehensive insurance coverage. To qualify for the procedure, you must pass several stages of screening and be prepared to make lasting lifestyle changes. Weight loss surgery can be life-changing, not just for your physical health but for your overall well-being, and Denver provides the right resources to help you through the entire process.