FAQ About Weight Loss

What kinds of illnesses are caused by morbid obesity?

Morbid obesity is associated with an increased risk for a shorter life span. The risk of an
early death for people whose weight exceeds twice their ideal body weight is
doubled compared to non-obese people.  Obesity causes or contributes to many
serious health conditions known as obesity related co-morbidities.  The following is a
partial list of some of the more common co-morbidities.
Type2 Diabetes, Heart disease, Hypertension (High blood pressure),
Hyperlipidemia (High cholesterol or triglycerides), Sleep
apnea/Respiratory problems, Pulmonary embolus (Blood clot in lungs),
Gastro esophageal reflux (GERD)/Heartburn, Osteoarthritis, Gallbladder
disease, Urinary stress incontinence, Lower extremity venous stasis,
Menstrual irregularities, Infertility, Polycystic ovarian syndrome, Cancer:
Uterine, colon, prostate, gallbladder, Depression.

Who is a Candidate for weight loss surgery?

Undergoing surgery for the purpose of losing weight and improving co-morbidities is obviously a drastic step.  It is only considered after more conservative methods have failed.  In 1991, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) developed guidelines for the selection of patients for Bariatric surgery.  The American Society of Bariatric Surgeons (ASBS) adopted these guidelines as well.
Criteria for Bariatric Surgery

1. Patients should exceed ideal body weight by 100 lbs or 100%, or have a BMI greater than 40
2. They should have no know causative metabolic or endocrine causes for the morbid obesity. (i.e. treatable causes)
3. They should have attempted weight loss through conservative methods and been unsuccessful at sustained weight loss.
4. They should be capable enough to understand the full importance of the surgical procedure, including risks and complications.
5. Patients must be able to care for themselves and be willing to comply with needed long-term follow-up care.