When to Refer Patients for Bariatric Surgery
Adults struggling with obesity are at an increased risk of developing illnesses – such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and sleep apnea. With the high prevalence of obesity continuing to climb—affecting 650 million adults worldwide and over 100 million in the United States—it’s important to educate individuals on what can be done to restore a healthy weight.*
One option that can help to overcome obesity is the innovation of bariatric surgery. Designed to stimulate weight loss and produce metabolic changes by surgically altering the way the digestive system works, this type of surgery assists patients in decreasing their appetite and/or limiting nutrient absorption. Over time, this can help the right candidates lose weight while adapting to a healthier lifestyle. However, there can be risks associated, so beginning the journey of weight loss surgery as a qualified candidate is essential to supporting the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. Below, our Chicago-based bariatric surgeons at Suburban Surgical Care Specialists/Kane Center outline when patients should be referred to bariatric surgery:
- Body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, with associated health concerns like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, arthritis, polycystic ovary syndrome, or fatty liver disease
- BMI of 30 or higher, and under care of an endocrinologist for diabetes management
- BMI of 35 or higher without any associated medical concerns
- BMI of 40 or higher, and needing to undergo joint replacement surgery
- Six months of unsuccessful non-surgical approaches to medical weight loss management
In some cases, a psychological evaluation may be recommended to ensure the individual is ready for this type of surgical procedure and the ongoing changes to their lifestyle. Weight loss procedures range from gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass surgery and, Duodenal Switch,. The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the American College of Surgeons (ACS) strongly recommend these procedures are performed by a board-certified surgeon with specialized training and experience in bariatric and metabolic surgery, who has a multidisciplinary care team of experts for support and follow-up care. These roles may include nutritionists, psychologists, pulmonologists, cardiologists, dieticians, exercise physiologists or specialists, and insurance specialists.
During a personal consultation, our weight loss surgeons will assess an individual’s medical needs and health goals to determine which bariatric procedure will be the most beneficial. At this time, they will also determine if the benefits of accomplishing the patient’s weight loss goals and improved health/quality of life via bariatric surgery outweigh the possible risks. At Suburban Surgical Care Specialists/Kane Center, our experienced bariatric surgeons are committed to helping individuals living with obesity find the safest, most effective solution for their health and well-being.
To learn more about qualifying for bariatric surgery, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our qualified surgeons, please contact us today.