|  | Surgeries Operations | Bariatric Surgery

What Is a Bariatric Patient?

Bariatric patients are people who undergo weight loss surgery. When it comes to bariatric procedures, patients have several options, ranging from gastric banding to the Lap-band procedure. Potential bariatric patients should discuss their options with a doctor.

  1. Weight Loss Surgery

    • Many surgeons look for bariatric patients who have tried and failed to lose weight through diet and exercise before considering an operation.

    Age

    • Ideal bariatric patients are between the ages of 18 and 65. In special circumstances, some surgeons may operate on teenagers.

    Body Mass Index

    • Most bariatric patients have a body mass index (BMI) of at least 40, as recommended by the National Institutes of Health.

    Weight

    • Given that most bariatric patients have a BMI of 40 or greater, many patients are about 100 pounds or more overweight.

    Overall Health

    • People who are at high risk for disease and have life threatening illnesses due to obesity may also be ideal bariatric patients.

Bariatric Surgery - Related Articles