Weight Loss

What Are the Essential Requirements for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Life-changing weight loss surgery can help people drastically reduce their body mass, improve various health issues, and even extend life expectancy. One of the most popular options is gastric sleeve surgery, which involves removing a portion of the stomach to limit food intake. However, it’s not an easy procedure to qualify for. Here are the five essential requirements you must meet before being approved for gastric sleeve surgery.

BMI Requirement

First and foremost, you must have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher to qualify for gastric sleeve surgery. If your BMI is between 30 and 39.9, you may still qualify if other health issues (such as diabetes or high blood pressure) are present. Consulting with an experienced doctor for bariatric surgery sleeve in Maryland can help you determine whether you meet the requirements for surgery. This is especially important if you’re unsure whether any of your existing medical conditions could qualify you.

Age Requirement

The second requirement for gastric sleeve surgery is age. You must be 18 or older to qualify, though some surgeons may consider younger candidates on a case-by-case basis. In addition, while there is no upper age limit, older patients may be required to undergo additional testing prior to the procedure. This is to ensure that they are healthy enough to withstand the surgery.

Diet/Exercise History

Your doctor will want to know if you’ve tried dieting and exercising in the past. This is because gastric sleeve surgery should be used as a last resort after all other approaches have been exhausted. You may also be asked to follow a specific diet and exercise plan for several months before being approved.

Comprehensive Medical Evaluation

Before the procedure, you’ll need to undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation. This includes blood tests, a physical exam, a psychological evaluation to assess any potential mental health issues, and other tests as needed. Your doctor also may consider your lifestyle factors (such as smoking and drinking) when determining whether you’re a suitable candidate for the surgery.

Other Requirements

Finally, before getting gastric sleeve surgery, you must attend several pre-operative appointments. These visits give you and your doctor the opportunity to discuss what to expect during and after the procedure. In addition, you may also consider your financial situation and the cost of gastric sleeve surgery to ensure that you can cover the expenses. This is because insurance coverage for bariatric surgery varies greatly depending on the provider and the patient’s plan.

To Wrap Up

Gastric sleeve surgery can be a life-changing procedure for those looking to reduce their body mass. However, it’s essential to meet the five requirements before being approved: having a BMI of 40 or higher, being 18 or older, having a diet/exercise history, having a comprehensive medical evaluation, and attending pre-operative appointments. Consulting with an experienced doctor is key to determining whether you qualify. Thank you for reading!

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