Deciding to have weight loss surgery can be a very difficult decision. The most important step in deciding whether to have weight loss surgery is getting all of the information you need about the various surgical options so that you can make an informed decision. Our team of dedicated surgeons, physicians, psychologists and dietitians understand that weight loss surgery is a very serious decision and will help you obtain the information you need to make your decision.
You will meet with the surgeon on your first visit to our clinic. He or she will review your medical history and help you to determine if you are a candidate for weight loss surgery at Baystate Medical Center. Take a moment to review some of the criteria that must be met before weight loss surgery can take place:
1. You must be between 18 and 65 years of age.
2. Do you have a BMI of 40 or higher
OR
A BMI of 35 or higher with 2 obesity related medical problems
3. Have you been unable to lose weight or keep weight off long-term with nonsurgical measures?
4. Are you well informed about the surgical procedure and the effects of treatment?
5. Are you determined to lose weight and improve your health?
6. Are you aware of how your life may change after the operation (adjustment to the side effects of the operation, including the need to chew food well and inability to eat large meals)?
7. Are you aware of the potential for serious complications, dietary restrictions, and occasional failures?
8. Have you attended all of your required appointments with the dietitian, psychologist and other recommended health care providers?
9. Are you committed to lifelong medical follow-up and vitamin/mineral supplementation?
Remember: there are no guarantees for any method, including surgery, to produce and maintain weight loss. Success is possible only with maximum cooperation and commitment to behavioral change and medical follow-up. This cooperation and commitment must be carried out for the rest of your life.
