What Is Considered Medically Necessary for Gastric Bypass?

Gastric bypass surgery isn't necessarily an "easy way out" for weight loss. However, in certain circumstances, gastric bypass can save lives and assist people who genuinely cannot lose weight by any other method.

Body Mass Index

• People with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 are considered morbidly obese. Anyone with a BMI this high can consider gastric bypass surgery. People with a BMI of over 35 who have additional diseases such as diabetes can also consider surgery.

Comorbidities

• People who suffer from other illnesses caused by obesity can regain the quality of their lives by having gastric bypass surgery. High blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart diseases are a few dangerous conditions that can be aggravated or caused by obesity.

Age

• Patients younger than 16 years of age are usually not accepted for this kind of surgery. However, no upper age limit exists, and people well into their 70s have had this operation.

Discipline

• Patients undergoing this surgery will have to follow a strict program afterward and should visit the clinic regularly for assistance.

Social Effects

• Many obese people feel they've become social outcasts who've been discriminated against. They might find it more difficult to get and hold jobs; this discrimination (perceived or real) may lead to depression. For them, gastric bypass surgery may help them regain their self-confidence and build their self-image.