I Am 5'7" and Weigh 235 Pounds, Am I Eligible for Gastric Bypass?

Question

For many years I have struggled with my weight and nothing seems to work: Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, Medifast. You name it, and I've tried it. I also previously had a gastric balloon inserted and only lost 10 pounds. I am considering going more drastic and having gastric bypass. Question is, am I eligible to have gastric bypass done being 5'7" and 235 pounds?

Ali Solmaz, MD · Answer

Gastric bypass eligibility is determined by BMI and overall health conditions. At 5'7" and 235 pounds, your BMI is approximately 36.8, which may qualify you for surgery if you also have obesity-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or joint problems. Without these conditions, most surgeons require a BMI of 40 or higher to approve gastric bypass.
Your history of weight struggles, including attempts with programs like Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, and Medifast, as well as the limited success with the gastric balloon, demonstrates that you’ve tried many options and are still seeking a sustainable solution. Gastric bypass could be an effective next step, as it not only helps with significant weight loss but also addresses hunger and portion control, often making it easier to maintain long-term results.

Pablo Garcia, MD · Answer

In patients with bmi like yours (37)  we ca do a bariatric surgery to you, but in your case i prefer other like sleeve gastrectomy or gastric plication, because have less nutritional issues than gastric bypass, and are less aggressive weight loss surgery.Anythinq that i can help, just let me know.

Shawn Garber, MD, FACS, FASMBS · Answer

The criteria for weight loss surgery specifically gastric bypass surgery is a BMI of 40 with no medical problems or a BMI of 35 with one medical problem like diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension.  The FDA recently approved the Lap-Band surgery for BMI of 30 with one medical problem as well.  Your BMI is 37 based on your height and weight.

I Am 5'7" and Weigh 235 Pounds, Am I Eligible for Gastric Bypass?

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I Am 5'7" and Weigh 235 Pounds, Am I Eligible for Gastric Bypass?

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