What Is Obesity?

It is not an opinion about you. It’s not indicative of your value. It’s not about the way you look. It’s not a judgment of your potential. It is a disease that we can help you treat.

Obesity is a complex disease, but is simply defined as having an excessive amount of fat in the body. It is a medical condition that causes and aggravates other serious health issues, such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, diabetes, heart disease, and joint pain. When your weight has reached a certain level, it has been shown that it’s not “just about” calories in vs. calories out. People with real weight issues have genetic wiring that makes long-lasting and significant weight loss unattainable despite their best efforts. It’s not one thing, it’s everything, including:

  • Genetics
  • Metabolic issues
  • Food choices
  • Activity and behaviors
  • Medical issues and medications

Candidacy Requirements

In order to qualify for bariatric surgery, there are a few requirements that you need to meet.

  • You must be “severely obese” as defined by the BMI scale. In order to be considered severely obese and eligible for bariatric surgery, you must be in one of these two situations:

    • A BMI of 35+ with weight-related health conditions (comorbidities).

    • A BMI of 40+ (“morbid obesity”) with or without associated medical problems.

  • You must have tried alternate weight-control efforts. Often, your insurance provider may require that you work with a registered dietician nutritionist and/or your primary care physician to undergo a weight-loss treatment plan.

  • You must be ready and able to make a lifelong change. This means a committed change in your diet, activity, and behaviors in-line with our guidance to help with effective, sustainable, and safe weight loss and maintenance.

Are Your Family And Friends Supportive?

Support systems are crucial for success after bariatric surgery. You may benefit from a support network of friends and family members, as well as the appropriate medical professionals to help you achieve and sustain your weight-loss goals.

Find A Support Group