Is Weight Loss Surgery Right for You?

If you have spent a huge part of your life worrying about how much you weigh, only to find you weigh more and more each year, you may want to think of something other than a diet to help you lose those extra pounds. Weight loss surgery is one option that many consider, and some undertake, but it is not right for everyone. Even if you fit the requirements, you should take your time before you go for any of the helpful types of weight loss surgery options available to you.

To know the exact requirements for weight loss surgery, you may have to talk with a doctor. There are different types of this surgery and each has their own requirements. For the most part, you have to be considered obese. Some say this is a BMI (body mass index) of 40 or more, or 30-35 or more with a high risk factor for disease like heart attack, stroke, or diabetes. In most cases, you have to be over age 18, though there are some exceptions made on an individual basis.

Along with that, there are things that are going to disqualify you. Anyone with an uncontrolled or untreated eating disorder like binge eating is not eligible. Those that have specific eating patterns based around medications can not have the surgery until this is no longer a problem. Medical conditions like thyroid disease should be treated as a first attempt at weight control before bypass or other weight loss surgery is considered. Those who are considering surgery must show they are willing to follow program guidelines and do not have addictions to alcohol or drugs of any type.

The mental health of the patient in question can also determined if someone is right for weight loss surgery. Anyone with any mental health issues that have not been treated are not candidates for surgery. It is hard enough to adjust after the surgery and as the weight comes off without having existing mental problem. Therapy for those undergoing the surgery is always recommended and so is follow up therapy as the weight comes off.

If you are willing to put the time and effort into readying yourself both physically and mentally before the surgery, and you qualify through the physical requirements, weight loss surgery may be a great option for you in your fight against obesity. Don't think of it as an easy way out or as a short cut because it is anything but that. It takes hard work and dedication, just like any other weight loss plan. For some, this is the only option they have to save their life.