Am I A Weight Loss Surgery Candidate?

If you are overweight or have concerns about how your weight may be affecting your health and have tried dieting before, then surgery may be right for you.

In general, surgery should be considered when other attempts at weight loss have been tried and been unsuccessful.

There are internationally agreed minimum criteria for performing weight loss surgery. These are based on BMI and any effect the weight maybe having on health and well being.

Briefly these are:

  • BMI 40 or greater. Even without any other health problems, surgery is considered indicated since the risk of developing health problems with such a level of obesity is very high
  • BMI 35 – 40 with obesity related health issues
  • BMI 30 – 35 with obesity related health issues may be eligible but careful individual assessment is required

The best way to find out if surgery is suitable for you is to phone us on 03 9852 3777 or contact us and discuss it with one of our specialists.

What is Body Mass Index?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women.

Body Mass Index does not differentiate between body fat and muscle mass. Therefore, body builders and people who have a lot of muscle bulk will have a high BMI but are not overweight or obese.

Body Mass Index is usually a good indicator of body fat for most people. Although it doesn’t directly measure body fat, it closely correlates to direct measures of body fat, such as underwater weighing. BMI is also an inexpensive and easy-to-perform method that can help determine if a person’s current weight could potentially lead to health problems.

It’s important to note that BMI is not a diagnostic tool. Whether a person has a high BMI or low BMI, an individual’s personal measurement should be left to a reputable doctor to determine if excess weight is a health risk. Further assessments may need to be completed including:

  • Family History
  • Evaluations of Diet and Physical Activity
  • Skinfold Thickness Measurements

 

BMI Calculator

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