General

Generally accepted guidelines from the American Society for Bariatric Surgery and the National Institutes of Health indicate surgery only for those 18 years of age and older. Surgery has been performed on patients 16 and younger. There is a real concern that young patients may not have reached full developmental or emotional maturity to make this type of decision. It is important that young weight loss surgery patients have a full understanding of the lifelong commitment to the altered eating and lifestyle changes necessary for success.

Patients over 65 require very strong indications for surgery and must also meet stringent Medicare criteria. The risk of surgery in this age group is increased, and the benefits, in terms of reduced risk of mortality, are reduced.

According to scientific research, weight loss surgery with active lifestyle and change in your diet may significantly prolong your life if you were diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes (or other serious obesity related health conditions) and at least 100 lbs. over ideal body weight before the surgery.

According to current research, weight loss surgery can improve or resolve associated health conditions.