Is Bariatric Surgery Right for Me?

Bariatric surgery is a commitment to improving your health for a lifetime. Deciding to have bariatric surgery is not a decision you should take lightly. Nor should you consider it a “short cut” to a healthier you. In fact, it’s the exact opposite. Bariatric surgery is NOT cosmetic surgery or an easy solution/substitute for eating well and exercising.

At Torrance Memorial, we’ll be with you every step of the way. You can set yourself up for success by fully understanding your options, your motivations for having surgery, and your need to make healthy changes for the long-term.

Extra Pounds Weighing You Down?

Maintaining your weight plays an integral role in keeping your bones, muscles, brain, heart — nearly every system in your body — functioning at a healthy level. Excess pounds can have a drastic impact on your daily life and your overall well-being.

Risks of Excess Weight

The term “overweight” or “obese” means you are 100 pounds or more over your ideal weight with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Obesity puts you at greater risk for serious health conditions such as:

Heart disease
High blood pressure
Stroke
Diabetes
Some cancers
Breathing problems, such as sleep apnea or asthma

In addition, obesity can have a drastic effect on quality of life, including:

Decreased physical function/increased pain in knees and joints
For women, difficulty getting pregnant and/or increased chance of premature birth
Heartburn and stomach problems
Depression
Lower life expectancy

How Excess Weight is Measured

What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?

BMI is a measure of body fat, using a person’s weight and height. It’s a quick and easy way to determine if you are considered overweight or obese. BMI does not measure body fat directly, and it does not account for age, sex, ethnicity, or muscle mass in adults.

Because it uses standard weight status categories, BMI helps doctors identify potential issues in individuals.

The formula for calculating BMI is: lbs x 703/in². That means multiply your weight in pounds (lbs) by 703. Then divide by your height in inches, squared (in²). There are also many online BMI calculators that you can use.

BMI Calculator

Your Waist Matters

In addition to BMI, you should also consider your waist circumference when assessing your overall health risk.

To find your waist circumference, place a tape measure around the area above your hip bone and below your rib cage and record the number where the tape meets itself.

To maintain good health, the goal for waist circumference is the following: