Candidates
The choice to have bariatric surgery is one that can not only help you lose weight, but also one that reinforces your commitment to better health. Just the consideration of surgical weight loss treatment is a major step, as it is a sign that you are ready to take your life in a new, healthy direction. There have been a number of changes in candidacy requirements for weight loss surgery over the years, and these changes have made more and more individuals eligible for advanced, life-changing treatment.
The information below can help you as you consider whether bariatric surgery is the right option for your goals. Once you have decided that weight loss treatment may be an ideal solution, we invite you to contact us for a consultation with Dr. James Parrish. Our bariatric surgeon can talk with you about your concerns, determine your candidacy for specific procedures, and advise you on the best treatment option for your unique needs. If you have questions, please reach out to our practice and we will be happy to speak with you.
Benefits of Surgery
For the right candidate, the potential benefits of weight loss surgery can be extraordinary. Obesity is associated with a number of medical problems, from high blood pressure and bad cholesterol to diabetes and stroke. By losing weight, bariatric surgery can often help patients improve their overall health.
Free Informational Seminars
Want to know more about weight loss surgery and the types of bariatric procedures available? Check out one of Dr. Parrish’s complimentary informational bariatric surgery seminars. These educational meetings can help you prepare for your operation and give you a chance to ask any questions.
Financing, Insurance, and Forms
To make your experience as convenient as possible, we offer patient registration forms online, so you can view, download, print, and fill out these papers before your visit to expedite the process. Additionally, weight loss surgery financing options and insurance information is provided to help you make the best financial and health decisions for your needs and goals.
Choosing a Procedure
While certain criteria need to be met for a person to qualify as a candidate for surgical weight loss treatment, there are several bariatric surgery options available for patients who are eligible for these procedures. The indication for any surgical bariatric procedure in most cases is a BMI (body mass index) over 35 or a BMI over 30 with a comorbidity (a medical condition that is related to obesity). Our practice offers many of the most advanced and effective treatments available. The primary objective of weight loss surgery is to help patients successfully lose weight and improve their health. Patients who have a BMI of at least 30 and suffer from a comorbidity may be good candidates for a procedure such as LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding. Those with a more severe degree of obesity may be better-suited to a procedure such as gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery. For individuals who are moderately overweight and just need some weight loss assistance, a non-surgical option like the ORBERA™ Intragastric Balloon may be an ideal treatment. ORBERA™ is FDA-approved only for patients with a BMI between 30 and 40. It is important to note that many insurance policies require patients to have a BMI of more than 35, and may have additional requirements, before they provide benefits. Fortunately, in addition to accepting a variety of insurance plans, our practice accepts a number of other convenient payment options, including weight loss surgery financing arrangements.
BMI Calculator
An individual’s body mass index (BMI) is an estimated measurement of the body’s fat based on the ratio between its weight and height. It serves as an indication of one’s body fat, which can help determine whether they are at an average healthy weight, or whether they fall in a range classified as underweight, overweight, or obese. Although body mass index is not the only consideration, there are certain BMI parameters required before an individual may qualify as a candidate for bariatric surgery procedures. Our BMI calculator can give you an idea as to whether your body mass index indicates possible eligibility for weight loss surgery.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are overweight and feel that you may qualify for one of these bariatric procedures, please contact us today to schedule a consultation with our extensively trained bariatric surgeon, Dr. Parrish. He can help you to begin your journey to a healthier and happier life!