Are you interested in getting bariatric surgery but don’t know where or how to start? Don’t worry because this post is just for you! Go over this “Do I Qualify for Weight Loss Surgery Quiz” to receive answers to your questions and determine if you meet the criteria for this procedure.
Weight Loss Surgery Qualification Questionnaire
Weight loss surgery is a big decision that can turn your life upside down for the better. Unfortunately, not everyone is a candidate for this procedure. To help you figure out if bariatric surgery is right for you, here’s a list of qualification questionnaires to determine if you meet its basic requirements.
Before you proceed, though, remember that this questionnaire should not be used as a substitute for a consultation with a qualified medical professional. Instead, this list will only give you an idea of whether you could be a candidate for the procedure.
Let’s get started!
1. Is your body mass index (BMI) equal to or above 35?
The body mass index (BMI) is a measurement used to determine whether an individual falls within the normal weight range based on their weight and height. For most adults, a BMI in the range of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered normal.
A BMI that falls over 30 and above is considered obese and can be a candidate for bariatric surgery if other criteria are met. Generally, a BMI of 35 or higher is ideal for this procedure, as excess weight can significantly impact a person’s health and quality of life.
Do you know your current BMI? If not yet, no worries! Check out this handy BMI calculator to find out.
2. Do you have weight-related health conditions?
Obesity can lead to a range of weight-related health conditions that can harm one’s quality of life. If left untreated, these conditions can escalate and even become life-threatening.
Additionally, patients who are suffering from commonly obesity-related diseases may be considered for surgery even if their BMI is 30. These usually include:
- hypertension
- heart disease
- type II diabetes
- sleep apnea
- gout
- joint pain
- depression
- anxiety
Bariatric surgery can effectively manage and treat these conditions, resulting in an improvement in your overall health.
3. Are you under or over 18 years of age?
Patients who are over 18 years old are eligible for the surgery. However, you may wonder if your child or teen can also be a candidate.
Minors can be allowed for bariatric surgery if the following are met:
- informed consent from a legal guardian is obtained
- the minor has expressed approval to undergo the procedure
- both the guardian and pediatric patient are informed of the benefits and risks of the procedure
- both parties’ understanding of the procedure is assessed
- a team of specialists is involved in making the decision in order to provide the best care and outcome possible
When you are faced with a dilemma, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks of both having the procedure and not having it at all. By weighing these risks, you can make a decision that may ultimately save your life and your child’s life.
4. Have you tried other conservative weight loss methods before?
Are you one of those who are tired of trying different weight loss methods but with no success? If so, then you may be eligible for bariatric surgery.
It can be frustrating and discouraging to put in the effort to eat healthily, exercise regularly, and take weight-loss medications, only to see little to no progress. However, bariatric surgery can provide a long-term solution for weight loss by either modifying the digestive system’s anatomy or limiting the stomach’s capacity to hold food.
This is why it’s important to note that this is a significant decision that should be taken after careful consideration and consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. But for those who are eligible and choose to undergo the procedure, bariatric surgery can be a life-changing experience that leads to improved health and a better quality of life.
5. Do you use tobacco and alcohol substances?
When discussing your medical history with your physician, it’s important to be transparent about your use of substances such as alcohol and tobacco. These habits can have a negative impact on your health and recovery post-surgery.
While it’s possible to continue using alcohol and tobacco, it’s important to be aware of the risks involved. For instance, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to weight regain, liver damage, malnutrition, and dehydration, which can impede the healing process after surgery.
Due to these risks, your bariatric doctor may suggest cutting back on alcohol use for at least six months post-surgery to allow your body to heal and adjust to its new stomach size. Similarly, smoking can increase the risk of developing life-threatening conditions such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.
To lessen these risks, doctors may ask you to quit smoking at least two months before surgery to reduce the chances of complications during the procedure. By being honest with your physician about your substance use, you can work together to create a comprehensive plan that prioritizes your health and well-being.
6. Have you been diagnosed with a psychiatric condition?
Prior to being approved for weight loss surgery, patients must undergo a psychological evaluation to ensure that their mental health will not interfere with the success of the bariatric procedure. This allows your doctor to identify any underlying issues that may be hindering weight loss progress and address them accordingly.
Additionally, it is crucial for your doctor to understand your mental health status to create an efficient treatment plan for you. By addressing any mental health issues beforehand, the patient can better achieve their weight loss goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle post-surgery.
Therefore, the psychological evaluation is an essential step in the weight loss surgery process, as it ensures that the patient is mentally prepared for the procedure and can fully benefit from its effects.
7. How committed are you to making lifestyle changes going forward?
Before the surgery, potential candidates must understand the importance of lifestyle changes to achieve and maintain their weight loss goals. Simply undergoing the procedure is not enough to guarantee lasting results.
While bariatric surgery can be an effective tool to kickstart weight loss, the long-term success of the procedure depends on the individual’s commitment to making these changes. Patients who commit to following a healthier diet and getting more active after the procedure are more likely to maintain their weight loss and prevent weight gain.
Is Weight Loss Surgery Right for Me?
When it comes to losing weight, a variety of options are available to consider. Some people prefer to focus on diet and exercise, while others may choose to explore the option of medications or even surgery. However, when it comes to bariatric surgery, it’s important to understand the criteria that must be met in order to qualify.
With this “Do I Qualify for Weight Loss Surgery Quiz,” you can now better understand what to expect and whether or not bariatric surgery may be an option for them. While surgery is not the right choice for everyone, it can be an effective tool for those who meet the necessary qualifications and are committed to making the necessary lifestyle changes to support long-term weight loss success.