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Am I a Candidate?

Bariatric surgery is one of the most effective ways to lose weight and improve health conditions related to obesity. But qualifications for bariatric surgery aren’t based on weight alone—several factors determine if it’s the right choice for you.

Your health care provider can explain the risks and benefits, answer your questions and help you decide if surgery is right for you.

While weight loss surgery can be life-changing, it isn’t for everyone. Here’s what you need to know about who qualifies.

Who qualifies for bariatric surgery?

Weight loss surgery is usually considered when other methods - like exercise, healthy eating and medication - haven’t worked. It can also help manage weight-related health problems.

You may qualify if you meet one or more of these criteria:

  • You are more than 100 pounds (45 kilograms) over your ideal body weight.
  • Your body mass index (BMI) is higher than 35.
  • Your BMI is higher than 35 and you have a serious health condition related to your weight, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, heart disease, or gallbladder disease. (Some insurance plans may allow evaluation if your BMI is 30–35 and you have one serious health condition.) Use a BMI calculator to check your number.
  • You have a family history of obesity or severe obesity.
  • You have been unable to lose or maintain a healthy weight long term, even with medically supervised diet and exercise programs.
  • You are a teen who meets requirements for the adolescent bariatric surgery program.
  • You need a revisional surgery after a prior weight loss procedure.

Preparing for surgery

Meeting the qualifications is only the first step. You’ll also go through a screening process to confirm your readiness for surgery. This includes reviewing your medical history, nutrition habits, and lifestyle. You must be committed to long-term changes in diet, exercise and follow-up care.

Your bariatric surgery journey

Every weight loss journey is unique. Our team will guide you through each step - before, during, and after surgery - so you know what to expect. Explore the Bariatric Surgery Journey to learn more about the process.

Meet Banner Health’s bariatric surgery team

Bariatric surgery takes a team approach to care. The Banner Health weight loss team provides compassionate, comprehensive, and advanced treatment - focused on your safety, success and long-term health.

Your care team may include:

  • Bariatric surgeons
  • Obesity medicine doctors
  • Nurse practitioners and nurses
  • Registered dietitians
  • Behavioral health specialists
  • Support staff and medical assistants
  • Specialists in cardiology, pulmonology, and sleep medicine

Surgery is only part of your care. Education, lifelong follow-up and emotional support are equally important in helping you achieve your weight loss goals and improve your quality of life.

Next steps

Take control of your health today. Watch our weight loss surgery online seminar.

Ready to begin your weight loss journey?

Watch our free informational video to learn about the different weight loss surgery options we offer as well as eligibility requirements and what you can expect as a patient in the program.

Start now