How do I know if I might be a candidate for weight-loss surgery?

Hi @motorcarrier, I think it depends on your physician, but with your comorbidities it sounds like you would be a good candidate.

I'd like to invite @grandmar and @karihammel to the conversation to see if they have anything to add.

You might like this article: LCHF discussion which has been shown to reverse type 2 diabetes and help weight loss --- Low-carb healthy fat living. Intermittent fasting. What’s your why?: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/low-carb-healthy-fat-living-intermittent-fasting-whats-your-why/

And this is a great blog to check out as well
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/weight-management-1/newsfeed-post/expert-answer-why-are-vitamins-important-after-bariatric-surgery/
Have you explored any bariatric surgeons near you?

@motorcarrier
Hi
I had the sleeve done 5 years ago.
Weight loss surgery is just a tool.
If you don't do the work, you won't lose as much as you can.
And, if you don't do the work. You can quickly gain it back.
That being said, you need 2 to 3 co-mobidities to qualify for surgery.
Check with your insurance company to find out what they need.
Do some research about the different surgeries, preps, realistic expectations, etc.
Joining a Facebook group might be helpful as well.
Good luck!!
GRANDMAr (Ronnie)

Thanks Amanda, After giving a lot of thought to bariatric surgery, I've decided to try to lose the weight on my own (again). I've successfully lost 25-30 pounds over a 4-month period (twice!) by eating Healthy Choice and Smart Ones meals but I've always gained back the weight. I've read a little about intermittent fasting and I'm intrigued. I know you've recommended the LCHF Living & Intermittent Fasting group and I've read several posts, including some by grandmar. I know how carbs affect blood sugar but since I've been on Metformin for the past 15+ years, my A1C has never exceeded 5.6 and I've been able to enjoy carbs. I've recetly developed ankle problems that I attribute to my weight. I've always enjoyed walking a couple of miles each day and the thought of not being able to enjoy my daily walks is what's prompting my new focus on my weight. As a person who enjoys a lot of carbs (bread, pasta, rice, etc), the thought of a low carb diet scares me. Has anyone had success with intermittent fasting without resorting to a low carb diet?

I’m attaching below a general guide for patients who are considering bariatric surgery. Generally all centers that offer this procedure also provide necessary support surrounding it and have their own criteria by which to evaluate candidates.
Who is a Good Candidate for Weight Loss (Bariatric) Surgery?
To qualify for weight loss surgery at our program, you need to meet these criteria:

You must be 18 years of age or older.
Have a BMI of 35 or greater with serious comorbidities (medical problems related to obesity) such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease or sleep apnea or BMI of 40 without comorbidities. In some cases, a BMI of 30-34.9 can be considered if the patient meets specific criteria set by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Have tried unsuccessfully to lose weight through a structured, medical weight loss program that includes diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
Undergo a psychological evaluation to determine that you are emotionally healthy enough to understand your decision.
Be willing and able to commit to long-term medical follow-up, as well as the rigorous, lifelong changes in eating, exercise and lifestyle habits that will be necessary to meet and maintain your weight loss and health goals after surgery.
Good luck with whom ever you choose. I also suggest you view the other discussions on MayoConnect pertaining to bypass surgery.

Can you have bariatric surgery if you have Ulcerative Colitis?

My insurance required a bmi of over 44 to qualify. Check with your insurance for the requirements for coverage. Best of luck and health.