Who is a good candidate for bariatric surgery?
The ideal candidate for bariatric surgery suffers from morbid obesity, has realistic expectations of the procedure, and is committed to maintaining a healthy diet and exercise program. Morbid obesity is a condition that affects over 23 million Americans, and occurs when an individual is at least 100 pounds over his or her ideal body weight. Many victims of morbid obesity suffer from dramatically decreased physical abilities and very slow metabolisms, which make exercise and weight loss almost impossible. In such cases, bariatric surgery is a viable and often life-saving option for weight loss. It is important, however, for patients of bariatric surgery to understand that there is no “quick fix” for a condition as serious as morbid obesity. While the vast majority of patients experience dramatic weight loss within the first year of their bariatric surgery, a healthy lifestyle with a sensible diet and exercise routine are crucial to the success of their transformation.
