Weight Loss Surgery

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Weight loss surgery (also known as bariatric surgery) is for people who are significantly overweight and have not been able to lose weight with diet, exercise, and medications.

To be eligible for weight loss surgery requires a BMI over 40. For someone 6 foot tall, that translates to a weight of 300 pounds. For someone 5 foot 5 inches, that translates to a weight of 240 pounds.

Alternatively, if you have a medical condition related to being overweight (like high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, and so on), then the BMI requirement is lowered to 35. Our six foot person now has to weigh 260 pounds and our 5 foot five inch person has to weigh 210 to be eligible.

Weight loss surgery is a major decision. While it is very effective for weight loss, like any surgery, it comes with pros and cons, and it's not a miracle cure. It does require medical follow-up for the rest of your life to ensure you are getting sufficient vitamins, minerals, and nutrition. Some people regain weight after a year or two. But is probably the only realistic way for most people to lose 100 pounds or more.

We have selected several videos for you below to learn more. Any decisions about weight loss surgery would be made with your KOKO provider and additional consultants.