Who Qualifies for Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery?

Bariatric weight loss surgery can be a life-changing option for individuals struggling with obesity and its related health complications. However, it's not a decision to take lightly—and not everyone is a candidate.

What Is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery includes a variety of procedures—such as gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding—that alter the digestive system to support significant and sustainable weight loss. These surgeries not only reduce the amount of food you can eat but may also impact how your body absorbs nutrients.

Who Qualifies?

To be considered for bariatric weight loss surgery, patients must meet specific criteria, both physical and psychological:

1. BMI Requirements
Candidates typically have:

• A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher (extreme obesity), or
• A BMI of 35 or higher with serious obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, or heart disease.

2. Documented Weight Loss Attempts
Most insurance providers and bariatric programs require a history of medically supervised weight loss attempts. This shows that surgery is not the first option—it’s a medically necessary step after other methods have failed.

3. Medical Evaluation
You must be healthy enough to undergo surgery.

4. Psychological Readiness
Mental health plays a big role in the success of weight loss surgery. Patients will typically undergo psychological screening to ensure they understand the lifestyle changes required and are prepared to commit to long-term success.

5. Willingness to Make Lifestyle Changes
Bariatric surgery is a tool—not a cure. Candidates must commit to permanent dietary, exercise, and behavioral changes. Regular follow-ups with a medical provider and nutritionist are crucial for long-term results.

Medical Weight Loss

An alternative to weight loss surgery is medical weight loss, in which a patient works with a physician to safely lose excess pounds and keep them off long-term. Medical weight loss is less expensive and does not involve surgery. Another advantage of medical weight loss is that more people are candidates for these physician-supervised programs than for bariatric surgery.


We offer medical weight loss at our office in South Burlington, VT. One key aspect of our medical weight loss program is that it is tailored to each patient's unique needs. Our program includes diet and exercise guidance, support, prescription medications, and weight loss treatments. Our skilled physicians will develop an individualized weight loss program tailored to your needs and goals. They will monitor your progress throughout and make adjustments when needed.

If you have found it difficult to lose weight and keep it off on your own, we can help. Call New England Medical Group at (802) 985-1653 to schedule a consultation with one of our physicians to learn more about medical weight loss. Your journey to a healthier, more active life can start now.

Please note: This blog/article is for informational purposes only. Our clinic specializes in and exclusively offers GLP-1 medications for weight loss (semaglutide and tirzepatide) and does not offer other medications/procedures mentioned in this post.