What Determines If Bariatric Surgery Is Medically Necessary?
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See your Doctor
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If you are concerned about your weight, the first step is to see your family doctor. Bariatric weight loss surgery has become increasingly popular as a way to maintain weight and to solve medical problems that are caused by obesity. There are many different types of bariatric surgeries. In some cases, a large section of the stomach is actually bypassed. In other cases, the stomach is banded to make the amount it can hold much smaller. Many people have experienced dramatic life changing results from this surgery. However, like any major surgery, it should not be taken lightly. Bariatric surgery should never be an alternative to dieting, and should be considered in extreme circumstances. This is why there are strict guidelines to determine whether the surgery is medically necessary. Determining whether the procedure is medically necessary will also determine whether insurance will pay for it.
Body Mass Index
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A person is determined to be overweight by their Body Mass Index (BMI). This number compares weight to height. A BMI of 25-29.9 is considered overweight. A BMI of 30 or more is considered obese. A BMI of 35-40 is considered severely obese while a BMI over 40 is considered morbidly obese. When a person is assessed as a candidate for bariatric weight loss surgery, their BMI is an important factor that is taken into consideration. Usually, bariatric surgery will only be considered when the person has a BMI over 40, or a BMI of 35 or more with evidence of obesity co-morbidities.
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Waist Circumference
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Waist circumference is measured by your doctor. This will determine the amount of abdominal fat on the person. Fat that is stored in the abdominal area is especially dangerous. Having excess belly fat puts patients at a higher risk for Type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension and cardiovascular disease. If the person's abdominal fat is especially high, he will be considered for the surgery.
Diseases and Conditions Associated with Obesity
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Your doctor will determine the presence of medical conditions related to obesity. Sometimes, weight loss surgery can be a way to prevent or control these diseases. Medical problems associated with obesity are called obesity co-morbidities. Some of these conditions include heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea and high blood pressure.
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