Qualifying for Weight Loss Surgery

Written by Jane Long

You have tried every diet plan known to man. You are considered clinically obese; and, you are at the end of the proverbial rope. You want to live to see your children and grandchildren grow up. So, you are considering the possibility of a bariatric procedure as a last resort. Now, you need to know the criteria for qualifying for weight loss surgery.

If you decide that you are ready for such a drastic health change, it is not merely finding a bariatric surgeon willing to perform the procedure. You will have to go through a battery of tests to determine if you qualify for bariatric surgery. You will have to undergo evaluations and much more to make sure this is the last option available to you, and that you completely understand exactly what you are getting into for the rest of your life.

Are you psychologically ready?

You can pass all of the required physical tests the doctor can order, but if you are not emotionally ready for this permanent lifestyle change, you will not be allowed to have surgery. Once bariatric surgery is done, there is no turning back, no changing your mind.

The doctor needs to be positive that you have no mental health issues that would preclude you being able to assess the gravity of this operation and make a well-informed choice. You will be evaluated for emotional readiness. Are you depressed? Have you contemplated suicide? Are you prepared for the recovery period and the restrictions that will be placed on eating and exercise habits, in order to ensure success of the procedure? You will be asked these and many more questions, so be prepared.

Visiting the Dietician

You will also be required to meet with a certified dietician. Yes, you probably already know all about healthy eating and the various diets available. But, the dietician will evaluate how you eat, what you eat, and even why you eat. For example, a lot of people indulge in comfort food when they get stressed or depressed. The dietician understands the special concerns of weight loss surgery patients. After all, this is not another diet alternative. You will be changing how you eat, how you live, and even how you think, in order for this procedure to have the desired outcome.

Blood Work

As with any major surgical procedure, you will be required to undergo a complete blood work up. Your blood will be tested for liver function and other potential disorders that can put you at increased risk during the surgery. It is a standard procedure. However, prior to this surgery it is absolutely vital, because you body will be going through some drastic changes, and it does not need the dangers of other potential complications.

The Pee Test

Yes, as uncomfortable as it may be, you will have to give a sample in the little cup. If you are a woman, the doctors will want to make sure you are not pregnant before going into surgery. But, a complete analysis of your urine, regardless of gender, could reveal other complications that can put your body at additional risk. For example, doctors can find out whether you already suffer from diabetes or some other illness.

Your Heart

You may undergo a whole battery of tests, just to make sure your heart and cardiovascular system is strong enough to withstand the procedure and recovery. If the doctor believes that you have a greater chance of dying on the operating table, as opposed to the health benefits of weight loss surgery, you journey toward surgery may end here. Before a doctor will perform the surgery, he/she must be sure the health benefits far outweigh the risks.

Your Lungs

Like you cardiovascular system, you will need to undergo tests to determine if your pulmonary system is strong enough to take the surgery and recovery. Your lungs and all the related systems must be strong enough to not present additional danger to your health. Again, the tests will determine whether the inherent risks of surgery are worth taking, in order to realize the benefits of weight loss surgery.

Your Digestive System

Of course, since the doctor will essentially be rerouting your digestive system, it will be imperative to make sure it is in good health, before he/she starts messing around with it. For example, if you have any type of disorder or disease of the digestive tract that would make weight loss surgery dangerous, the doctor cannot, in good conscience perform the surgery. Unfortunately, you will be scoped from one end to the other.

So, now you have a general idea of the many tests you will undergo before qualifying for weight loss surgery. No, it will not be fun, and it will not happen overnight. But, if you are really serious about making this drastic lifestyle change, in order to be healthier, you can do it! Think of it as a true test of your convictions to change.