Am I a candidate for bariatric surgery?
The 2022 American and international metabolic and bariatric surgery guidelines recommend surgery at a body mass index of 35 kg/m² or more, regardless of associated conditions. Surgery may be considered at a BMI of 30–34.9 kg/m² with metabolic disease or without sustained improvement through nonsurgical methods, following specialist assessment.
BMI alone does not decide whether to operate. The team assesses associated conditions, nutrition, readiness for follow-up and risks, and explains alternatives. Insurance coverage rules and hospital policies may differ from scientific recommendations; obtain confirmation for your case.
Adult criteria do not automatically apply to children or adolescents. Arrange a consultation through the doctor directory and bring reports, a medicine list and information about previous weight-management attempts.
References
Cite this answer
ClinicsJo Editorial Team. Am I a candidate for bariatric surgery? (Sep 11, 2026).
https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/obesity-surgery-candidates#answerRead the text version with referencesHow to use medical information