Bariatric surgery is a major surgery and prospective candidates need to fully understand the risks and lifestyle changes required before deciding to undergo this procedure.
The National Institutes of Health recommends bariatric surgery as a treatment option for people suffering from morbid obesity who are unable to lose weight by traditional means. It is recommended for people with a BMI* of 40 or greater which is approximately 100 pounds more than the ideal body weight for men and 80 pounds for women. Other candidates for surgery include those with a BMI between 35 and 40, who suffer from health problems associated with being obese, such as sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Calculate Your Body Mass Index (BMI)
Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women.
• Enter your weight and height.
• Click on "Compute BMI" and your BMI will appear in the box.
BMI Categories: |
<18.5 |
Underweight |
18.5–24.9 |
Ideal weight |
25–29.9 |
Overweight |
30–35 |
Obese |
> 35 |
Severly obese |
An ideal BMI is between 19 and 25. A BMI between 26 and 29 is considered overweight. If it is over 30, one is considered obese and at risk for serious health problems. A BMI of 35 or more is considered severely or morbidly obese.
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