Weight loss surgery requirements in San Antonio

Most people who are obese understand that excess weight can cause problems with lifestyle and function. At Methodist Healthcare, we offer surgical solutions to the San Antonio community. Our bariatric programs outline whether a patient is eligible for weight loss surgery, assist patients in making the decision to change their lifestyle and increase their chances of success.

For more information about our bariatric surgery services, please call Methodist Healthcare HealthLine at (210) 575-0355.

Am I a candidate for bariatric surgery?

One of the first questions people ask about bariatric surgery, or surgical weight loss, is "Am I a candidate?" While this question sounds simple, the answer is more complex. Think of this question as a two-part question:

  • Do I meet the medical criteria to qualify for surgical weight loss?
  • Am I mentally prepared for surgical weight loss?

To medically qualify for surgical weight loss, a person must:

  • Have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40
  • Have a BMI greater than 35 with at least one comorbidity exacerbated by weight. These comorbidities include, but are not limited to:
    • Diabetes (Type 2 or insulin-resistant)
    • High blood pressure
    • Obstructive sleep apnea
    • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
    • High cholesterol
    • Degeneration of the knees or other weight-bearing joints

The second question, "Am I mentally prepared for surgical weight loss?" can only be answered by the individual. It is important to realize that surgical weight loss is not a quick fix, but a tool to assist you in your weight loss journey. It is a lifelong commitment that requires permanent diet and lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery.

Know your BMI

BMI Calculator

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from a person's weight and height. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

Height:

feet
inches

Weight:

pounds

Your BMI Score is:

scale

Your BMI indicates your weight is in the underweight range. By gaining a few pounds, you may lower your chances of health problems.

Congratulations! Your BMI indicates that your weight is in the healthy range.

Your BMI indicates your weight is in the overweight range. To lower your chances of health problems, you may consider losing some weight.

Your BMI indicates your weight is in the obese range, which can have a significant impact on your health.

Disclaimer:
All information provided by this website is intended to be general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for a visit with a health care professional. No information provided in this site may be considered medical advice. The information may not be relevant for your individual situation and may be misinterpreted. HCA assumes no responsibility for how you use information obtained from this site. Before making any decisions regarding your health care, ask your personal physician.

Weight loss seminars

Our facilities host free, informative seminars at our hospitals for people interested in surgical weight loss. The seminars are usually last two to three hours.

During this time, you will learn about the different types of bariatric surgery, the rationale for surgery and the expected outcomes. After the lecture, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a question-and-answer session.

We encourage anyone interested in weight loss surgery to bring friends and family to the seminar for support and to share in the experience.

Register for a weight loss seminar to begin your weight loss journey today!