Weight loss, or bariatric, procedures are performed to help people battling morbid obesity to lose weight. There are several types of procedures, each with a differing method to achieve weight loss. Most surgical options, like gastric bypass, target the size of the stomach. A reduced stomach pouch is restricted in the amount of food it can hold, thus limiting the individual in their food consumption. Less consumption, therefore fewer calories, should ultimately yield the desired results. Bariatric surgical procedures may also improve one’s overall health. Patients have reported higher energy levels, greater ease of every day activities, and positive hormonal changes.

There are three factors that are common amongst candidates for surgical weight loss*. First is meeting the classification of obesity. Obesity is defined as having a minimum Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35, with anything over 40 qualifying as morbid obesity. The second factor is having a disease or physical disability that is correlated with one’s weight. High blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and heart disease are just a few of the many internal illnesses that are associated with obesity. Overweight individuals may also have physical limitations like the inability to stand or walk for extended periods of time. The final consideration is being unable to lose weight. If a healthy diet and adequate exercise have yielded no results, weight loss surgery may be the solution.

*It is important to note that these three factors are not dependent, nor are they exhaustive. The most important factor in determining if you are a prime candidate for weight loss surgery is a consultation with a qualified doctor. Our team at Birmingham Minimally Invasive will have an in-depth discussion with you regarding your medical history and lifestyle to determine if bariatric surgery is right for you.

If you are a resident of Mobile, Alabama, don’t limit your search for surgical weight loss solutions for the sake of convenience. Patients of Birmingham Minimally Invasive travel from near and far to receive weight loss surgery. We offer a variety of surgical options that are performed at state-of-the-art facilities. A one-on-one consultation with our specially trained bariatric surgeon, Dr. Long, is guaranteed. At BMI, we work with our patients to understand their needs and to determine the optimal surgical option.

*Individual Results May Vary