Bariatric Surgery Not Just for Obese also Overweight

Bariatric surgery is often referred to as “weight loss surgery,” and as a result, many believe it is meant solely for those who are considered obese based on their BMI—body mass index. But this is simply not true. There are plenty of reasons why people with a lower BMI—from 29 to 35—would need bariatric surgery, bariatric surgery not just for obese also overweight.

First of all, what exactly is BMI? Body mass index is based on the height and weight of an individual by taking a person’s body mass (weight) and dividing it by the square of their body height. It is universally expressed in units of kg/m² and used to determine whether a person is underweight (<18.5), normal weight (18.5-25), overweight (25-30), or obese (>30).

Although on the BMI scale anything above a 24.9 is considered overweight, bariatric surgery is typically done on obese individuals with a BMI of 35 or greater. But research continues to show that weight loss surgery can also help people with a BMI that falls slightly below that number, particularly those with certain health issues.

John M. Morton, MD, MPH, associate professor of surgery and director of bariatric surgery and surgical quality at Stanford University, conducted a study that showed how performing bariatric surgery on patients with a BMI ranging from 29-35 helped put their type 2 diabetes into remission at a better rate than those with a higher BMI.

Besides individuals with diabetes, bariatric surgery can also be very effective for people with a BMI between 29-35 suffering from high blood pressure, severe acid reflux, or heart issues. Reversing obesity and lowering a person’s BMI at an earlier stage can potentially halt the progression of these health conditions and help prevent other obesity-related ailments from developing.

One of the most frequently asked questions about bariatric surgery by those with a BMI below 35 is “Will I lose too much weight?”

The answer is no. Dr. Francisco Zavalza at Go Light Bariatrics will adjust the size of the new stomach according to an individual’s BMI, allowing the body to properly adjust to new eating habits.

Just as it’s not only for those with a BMI of 35 or more, bariatric surgery is also not just an option for individuals with deep pockets. The American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery estimates that roughly 220,000 bariatric surgeries are performed in the U.S. each year and their cost ranges from $11,500 to $26,000. But Affordable weight loss surgery can be found in Tijuana, Mexico, for a much lower price. Receive world-class service with reasonable pricing when you get bariatric surgery in Mexico at Go Light Bariatrics.

Contact Go Light Bariatrics with all of your questions surrounding bariatric surgery in Tijuana, Mexico.