Am I a Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery? Take Our Free Assessment

Making the decision to pursue bariatric surgery is life-changing, and one of the first questions you’re likely asking is: “Am I even a candidate?” Understanding whether weight loss surgery is right for you involves more than just your weight—it requires evaluating your overall health, previous weight loss attempts, commitment to lifestyle changes, and personal goals.

Dr. Carlos Navarrete has helped hundreds of patients determine their candidacy for bariatric surgery. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the medical criteria, psychological readiness factors, and practical considerations that determine whether you’re a good candidate for procedures like gastric sleeve or gastric bypass.

Quick Candidate Self-Assessment

Answer these questions honestly to get an initial indication of your candidacy:

Medical Criteria

1. What is your Body Mass Index (BMI)?

• [ ] 40 or higher (any weight-related health conditions)
• [ ] 35-39.9 with serious obesity-related health conditions
• [ ] 30-34.9 with uncontrolled diabetes or metabolic syndrome
• [ ] Below 30

2. Do you have any of these obesity-related health conditions?

• [ ] Type 2 diabetes
• [ ] High blood pressure (hypertension)
• [ ] High cholesterol or triglycerides
• [ ] Sleep apnea
• [ ] Heart disease or history of heart attack/stroke
• [ ] Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• [ ] Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• [ ] Osteoarthritis or joint problems
• [ ] Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• [ ] Asthma made worse by weight
• [ ] None of the above

3. How long have you struggled with obesity?

• [ ] 5+ years
• [ ] 2-4 years
• [ ] 1-2 years
• [ ] Less than 1 year

4. Have you tried other weight loss methods?

• [ ] Yes, multiple times without long-term success
• [ ] Yes, once or twice
• [ ] No, this would be my first attempt
• [ ] I haven’t seriously tried to lose weight

5. Are you between 18-65 years old?

• [ ] Yes
• [ ] No (under 18 or over 65)

Psychological and Lifestyle Readiness

6. Are you willing to make permanent lifestyle changes?

• [ ] Yes, I’m fully committed to lifelong dietary changes
• [ ] I think so, but I’m somewhat uncertain
• [ ] I’m not sure I can commit to permanent changes
• [ ] No

7. Do you have realistic expectations about surgery results?

• [ ] Yes, I understand it’s a tool that requires my effort
• [ ] I expect to lose some weight but know it takes work
• [ ] I expect surgery to solve all my weight problems
• [ ] I’m not sure what to expect

8. Do you have support from family or friends?

• [ ] Yes, strong support system
• [ ] Some support, but limited
• [ ] No support from loved ones
• [ ] My loved ones are against the surgery

9. Are you willing to take vitamins and supplements for life?

• [ ] Yes, absolutely
• [ ] Probably
• [ ] I’m not sure
• [ ] No

10. Can you commit to regular follow-up appointments?

• [ ] Yes, I’ll make this a priority
• [ ] Yes, though it may be challenging
• [ ] Probably not
• [ ] No

Medical History Considerations

11. Do you have any of these conditions?

• [ ] Active substance abuse (drugs or alcohol)
• [ ] Uncontrolled severe psychiatric disorder
• [ ] Unable to understand risks and benefits
• [ ] Pregnancy or planning pregnancy in next 12-18 months
• [ ] Recent cancer treatment
• [ ] Severe heart or lung disease
• [ ] None of the above

12. Are you a current smoker?

• [ ] No, I don’t smoke
• [ ] No, but I quit within the past year
• [ ] Yes, but I’m willing to quit before surgery
• [ ] Yes, and I’m not willing to quit

Interpreting Your Results

Strong Candidate Profile

You answered “yes” or checked the first box for most questions, particularly:

• BMI 35+ with health conditions or BMI 40+
• Multiple obesity-related health conditions
• Long history of struggling with weight
• Multiple failed diet attempts
• Age 18-65
• Strong commitment to lifestyle changes
• Realistic expectations
• Good support system
• Willing to take supplements and attend follow-ups
• No major contraindications

Next step: You’re likely an excellent candidate for bariatric surgery. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Navarrete to discuss which procedure is best for you and begin the evaluation process.

Possible Candidate Profile

You have mixed responses:

• BMI 30-34.9 with diabetes
• Some obesity-related conditions
• Moderate weight loss history
• Some concerns about commitment or support
• Uncertainty about expectations

Next step: You may still be a candidate, but you’ll need a thorough evaluation and possibly some preparation work. A consultation with Dr. Navarrete can help determine if surgery is appropriate now or if you should address certain factors first.

Not Currently a Candidate Profile

You answered “no” or checked concerning boxes for several questions:

• BMI below 30 without diabetes
• Active substance abuse
• Severe uncontrolled psychiatric conditions
• Unwilling to make lifestyle changes
• Unrealistic expectations
• Currently pregnant
• Unwilling to quit smoking

Next step: Bariatric surgery may not be appropriate at this time. Consider addressing these factors first, or explore other weight loss options. A consultation can help you understand what steps might make you eligible in the future.

Detailed Candidacy Criteria

Body Mass Index (BMI) Requirements

BMI is the primary initial screening tool for bariatric surgery candidacy. Here’s how to calculate yours and understand what it means:

BMI Calculation: BMI = (Weight in pounds × 703) ÷ (Height in inches)²

Example:

• Weight: 250 pounds
• Height: 5’6″ (66 inches)
• BMI = (250 × 703) ÷ (66 × 66) = 40.4

BMI Categories for Bariatric Surgery:

BMI 40 or higher (Class III Obesity)

• Qualifies for surgery regardless of other conditions
• Also called “severe” or “morbid” obesity
• Significantly increased health risks

BMI 35-39.9 (Class II Obesity)

• Qualifies with at least one serious obesity-related condition:
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Sleep apnea
  • Heart disease
  • High cholesterol
  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
  • Severe joint problems

BMI 30-34.9 (Class I Obesity)

• May qualify with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes
• May qualify with metabolic syndrome
• Less commonly approved but possible in specific cases
• Requires thorough medical evaluation

BMI below 30

• Generally not a candidate for traditional bariatric surgery
• May consider other weight loss approaches
• Some countries/programs have different criteria

Quick Reference BMI Chart

Height 5’0″:

• BMI 30: 153 lbs | BMI 35: 179 lbs | BMI 40: 204 lbs

Height 5’2″:

• BMI 30: 164 lbs | BMI 35: 191 lbs | BMI 40: 218 lbs

Height 5’4″:

• BMI 30: 175 lbs | BMI 35: 204 lbs | BMI 40: 233 lbs

Height 5’6″:

• BMI 30: 186 lbs | BMI 35: 217 lbs | BMI 40: 248 lbs

Height 5’8″:

• BMI 30: 197 lbs | BMI 35: 230 lbs | BMI 40: 262 lbs

Height 5’10”:

• BMI 30: 209 lbs | BMI 35: 243 lbs | BMI 40: 278 lbs

Height 6’0″:

• BMI 30: 221 lbs | BMI 35: 258 lbs | BMI 40: 294 lbs

Height 6’2″:

• BMI 30: 233 lbs | BMI 35: 272 lbs | BMI 40: 311 lbs

Obesity-Related Health Conditions (Comorbidities)

Having one or more of these conditions strengthens your candidacy, especially if your BMI is 35-39.9:

Metabolic Conditions:

• Type 2 Diabetes: Especially if difficult to control with medication
• Prediabetes: Elevated blood sugar but not yet diabetic
• Metabolic Syndrome: Combination of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol, and abdominal fat
• High Cholesterol: Particularly if medication isn’t adequately controlling it
• Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Liver damage from fat accumulation

Cardiovascular Conditions:

• High Blood Pressure: Especially if requiring multiple medications
• Heart Disease: History of heart attack, angina, or heart failure
• Stroke History: Previous stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• Peripheral Vascular Disease: Poor circulation in legs

Respiratory Conditions:

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Moderate to severe, especially if using CPAP
• Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome: Breathing problems related to weight
• Asthma: Made worse by obesity

Musculoskeletal Conditions:

• Osteoarthritis: Joint pain and damage, especially in knees, hips, or back
• Severe Joint Pain: Limiting mobility and quality of life
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Back problems worsened by weight

Reproductive Health:

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Hormonal disorder causing irregular periods and infertility
• Infertility: Related to weight
• Urinary Stress Incontinence: Leaking urine with activity

Gastrointestinal Conditions:

• GERD: Severe acid reflux (note: gastric sleeve may worsen GERD)
• Hiatal Hernia: Stomach pushing through diaphragm

Other Conditions:

• Pseudotumor Cerebri: Increased pressure in the skull
• Venous Stasis Disease: Leg swelling and skin changes
• Severe Lymphedema: Swelling from lymphatic system problems

Age Considerations

Standard Age Range: 18-65 Years

Most bariatric programs accept patients in this age range, as they have the best risk-to-benefit ratio.

Young Adults (18-25):

• Generally excellent candidates if they meet other criteria
• Strong recovery ability
• Maximum years to benefit from weight loss
• Must demonstrate maturity and commitment
• Should have completed growth (especially important for teens)

Middle Age (26-55):

• Ideal candidates
• Balance of good health and ability to benefit long-term
• Often have multiple comorbidities that will improve
• Strong commitment to lifestyle changes

Older Adults (56-65):

• Still good candidates if overall health is reasonable
• May have more comorbidities benefiting from surgery
• Slightly higher surgical risk but often outweighed by benefits
• Excellent results when carefully selected

Outside Standard Range

Under 18 (Adolescents):

• Possible in severe cases
• Requires specialized adolescent bariatric program
• Extensive psychological evaluation
• Strong family support essential
• Must meet specific pediatric criteria
• Dr. Navarrete can assess on individual basis

Over 65 (Elderly):

• Possible with careful patient selection
• Requires thorough cardiovascular and overall health evaluation
• Must have good functional status
• Benefits often outweigh risks even at advanced age
• Many patients in their 70s successfully undergo surgery
• Dr. Navarrete evaluates each case individually

Weight Loss History

Previous Weight Loss Attempts

Having tried and failed to lose weight through traditional methods actually strengthens your candidacy for surgery:

Strong candidacy indicators:

• Multiple supervised diet programs
• Participation in commercial weight loss programs (Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, etc.)
• Medical weight loss with physician supervision
• Weight loss medications tried
• Personal trainer or gym memberships
• Lost weight multiple times but always regained it
• Pattern of yo-yo dieting

What doctors look for:

• Documented attempts over months or years
• Serious, sustained efforts (not just “tried eating less”)
• Weight loss followed by regain (proves traditional methods don’t work long-term)
• Understanding of why previous attempts failed

You don’t need to:

• Try every diet in existence
• Prove you’ve suffered for years
• Lose weight before surgery (though some surgeons require it)
• Document everything (though it helps)

The “Diet Failure” Requirement

Many insurance companies require documentation of “failed” diet attempts, but self-pay patients in Mexico typically don’t face this requirement. However, your history helps Dr. Navarrete understand:

• Your relationship with food
• What challenges you’ve faced
• Your commitment level
• Realistic expectations
• How to best support you

Psychological Readiness

Mental Health Evaluation

Psychological readiness is just as important as physical health for bariatric surgery success.

Good psychological candidacy:

• ✅ Realistic expectations about outcomes
• ✅ Understanding that surgery is a tool, not a cure
• ✅ Willingness to make permanent changes
• ✅ Adequate coping skills for stress
• ✅ Stable mental health
• ✅ Support system in place
• ✅ Intrinsic motivation (doing it for yourself)

Concerning factors:

• ❌ Active, untreated severe depression
• ❌ Uncontrolled bipolar disorder or schizophrenia
• ❌ Active eating disorders (binge eating may be okay if addressed)
• ❌ Active substance abuse
• ❌ Unrealistic expectations (expecting perfection)
• ❌ External pressure (spouse forcing you)
• ❌ Inability to understand risks and requirements

Important note: Having a history of mental health issues doesn’t disqualify you. What matters is:

• Current stability
• Ongoing treatment if needed
• Good coping mechanisms
• Support system

Commitment and Motivation

Questions to ask yourself:

Why do I want surgery?

• Strong reasons: Improve health, be active with kids/grandkids, reduce medications, better quality of life
• Concerning reasons: Please someone else, look like a model, fix all life problems

Am I willing to:

• Eat small portions forever?
• Prioritize protein at every meal?
• Give up certain foods permanently?
• Take vitamins every day for life?
• Exercise regularly?
• Attend follow-up appointments?
• Deal with potential complications?

What happens if:

• Weight loss is slower than expected?
• I don’t reach my “goal weight”?
• I have complications?
• My relationships change?
• I struggle with new eating patterns?

Your honest answers to these questions help determine your readiness.

Lifestyle Factors

Support System

Having support significantly improves outcomes:

Ideal support includes:

• Partner, spouse, or family member who understands and supports your decision
• Friends who will encourage healthy behaviors
• Willingness to help with practical needs during recovery
• Emotional support during challenges
• Accountability partners

What if you lack support?

• Online bariatric communities
• Local support groups
• Bariatric surgery forums and social media groups
• Some patients find support groups pre-surgery
• Dr. Navarrete’s team provides ongoing support

Red flags:

• Partner actively sabotaging efforts
• Family ridiculing or undermining you
• No one aware you’re having surgery
• Isolation with no support system at all

Living Situation and Practical Considerations

Questions to consider:

Can you afford:

• Surgery cost (self-pay or insurance)
• Vitamins and supplements ($30-60/month)
• Protein shakes and healthy foods
• Follow-up care
• Potential complications

Can you arrange:

• Time off work (1-4 weeks depending on job)
• Help during recovery (first week especially)
• Transportation to/from surgery
• Childcare if needed
• Coverage for responsibilities

Is your environment supportive:

• Can you control your food environment?
• Do you have space for healthy food prep?
• Can you avoid trigger situations?
• Is your home life stable?

Smoking and Substance Use

Smoking:

• ❌ Absolute requirement: Must quit at least 4 weeks before surgery
• Smoking dramatically increases complications:
  • Poor wound healing
  • Increased infection risk
  • Higher leak risk
  • Pulmonary complications
• Most programs test for nicotine (blood or urine)
• Includes cigarettes, cigars, vaping, and chewing tobacco
• Quitting resources available

Alcohol:

• Must abstain completely before and for at least 6 months after surgery
• Alcohol absorbs much faster after surgery (dangerous)
• Empty calories can sabotage weight loss
• Increased risk of transfer addiction
• History of alcohol abuse requires evaluation and treatment

Drug use:

• Active drug abuse is a contraindication
• Must be in recovery and stable
• History of drug abuse not disqualifying if currently sober
• Pain medication dependence needs addressing
• Medical marijuana use should be discussed

Medical Contraindications

Absolute Contraindications (Surgery Not Recommended)

• Active cancer treatment
• Recent heart attack (within 6 months)
• Severe, uncontrolled heart failure
• Severe liver disease (cirrhosis)
• Severe lung disease preventing surgery
• Active psychosis or inability to consent
• Pregnancy
• Active, untreated drug or alcohol addiction

Relative Contraindications (May Need Optimization First)

• Uncontrolled diabetes (needs better management first)
• Severe heart disease (needs cardiac clearance)
• Significant lung disease (needs pulmonary clearance)
• Severe GERD (may need bypass instead of sleeve)
• Large hiatal hernia (may need repair during surgery)
• Previous abdominal surgeries (not disqualifying but need review)
• Autoimmune diseases on immunosuppressants
• Bleeding disorders (need hematology clearance)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis)

Important: Having these conditions doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t have surgery—it means you need careful evaluation and possibly optimization first.

Special Populations

Diabetic Patients

Excellent candidates:

• Type 2 diabetes often resolves or improves dramatically after surgery
• Particularly good candidates even with BMI 30-34.9 if diabetes is uncontrolled
• Surgery may be more effective than medication alone
• Reduced medication needs
• Improved A1C and blood sugar control

Pre-surgery considerations:

• Medications need adjustment around surgery
• Blood sugar monitoring essential
• May need endocrinologist clearance
• Higher healing risk but manageable

Patients with Previous Abdominal Surgery

Not disqualifying:

• Previous C-sections, appendectomy, gallbladder removal, hysterectomy, etc.
• May have adhesions (scar tissue) making surgery more complex
• Experienced surgeons like Dr. Navarrete can navigate this
• Slightly longer operative time
• May require open surgery in rare cases

Important to disclose:

• All previous abdominal surgeries
• Any complications from past surgeries
• Previous bariatric surgery (revision surgery possible)

Patients on Certain Medications

Blood thinners:

• Usually need to stop temporarily before surgery
• Resume after with doctor guidance
• Coordinate with prescribing physician

Immunosuppressants:

• Patients on steroids, transplant meds, or biologics for autoimmune disease
• Requires careful evaluation
• Higher infection risk
• Often still candidates with precautions

Psychiatric medications:

• Generally not a problem if stable
• Need to discuss absorption changes post-surgery
• Some medications need liquid or different forms

NSAIDs:

• Must avoid after surgery (can cause ulcers)
• Need alternative pain management plan
• Discuss with doctor if taken for chronic conditions

Age-Specific Considerations

Young Adults (18-30)

Advantages:

• Excellent healing and recovery
• Maximum years to benefit from weight loss
• Fewer existing complications
• High metabolism aids weight loss
• Prevent future health problems

Considerations:

• Lifetime of dietary restrictions
• May want pregnancy in future (wait 18 months post-surgery)
• Social situations with peers
• Long-term vitamin compliance
• Career and life transitions

Middle Age (30-55)

Advantages:

• Often have health conditions that will improve
• Established lifestyle easier to modify
• Financial stability to afford surgery
• Mature decision-making
• Strong motivation

Considerations:

• Balancing surgery with work/family
• More established eating patterns to change
• May have more medical issues to optimize

Older Adults (55-70)

Advantages:

• Health improvement extends quality of life
• Reduce medications
• Increase mobility and independence
• Prevent disability

Considerations:

• More thorough cardiac/medical clearance needed
• Slower healing (but still excellent outcomes)
• Skin elasticity lower (more loose skin)
• Must have good functional status
• Benefits often outweigh higher risk

Your Next Steps

If You Think You’re a Candidate

1. Calculate your BMI accurately

• Use online calculator or formula provided
• Measure height and weight honestly
• Determine which BMI category you’re in

2. Document your weight loss history

• Previous diets tried
• Timeframes and results
• Why each attempt ultimately failed
• Any medical weight loss programs

3. List your health conditions

• Current medications
• Diagnosed conditions
• Symptoms you experience
• Impact on quality of life

4. Assess your readiness

• Motivation level
• Support system
• Practical considerations
• Commitment to lifestyle changes

5. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Navarrete

• Discuss your individual situation
• Get professional candidacy assessment
• Learn about procedure options
• Understand next steps

What to Bring to Your Consultation

Medical information:

• List of current medications and dosages
• List of health conditions
• Recent lab work if available
• Records of previous weight loss attempts
• List of previous surgeries

Questions and concerns:

• Specific questions about your situation
• Concerns about candidacy
• Questions about procedures
• Financial and practical questions

Personal goals:

• What you hope to achieve
• Why now is the right time
• Your commitment level
• Timeline preferences

Frequently Asked Questions About Candidacy

“What if my BMI is just under the requirement?”

If you’re close (BMI 38-39 without comorbidities, or BMI 28-29 with diabetes), schedule a consultation anyway. Dr. Navarrete evaluates each case individually. Sometimes factors like:

• Distribution of weight (apple vs pear shape)
• Muscle mass affecting BMI calculation
• Severity of health conditions
• Previous weight loss history

…can influence candidacy even with BMI slightly outside typical range.

“I have mental health issues—does that disqualify me?”

Not automatically. Stable, treated mental health conditions don’t prevent surgery. What matters:

• Current stability
• Adequate treatment
• Good coping mechanisms
• Support system
• Realistic expectations

Discuss openly with Dr. Navarrete during consultation.

“Can I have surgery if I’m taking psychiatric medications?”

Usually yes. Most psychiatric medications are compatible with bariatric surgery. You may need:

• Liquid or crushable forms temporarily
• Dosage adjustments over time
• Close monitoring by psychiatrist
• Discussion of absorption changes

“What if I can’t stop smoking?”

Smoking cessation is typically required 4+ weeks before surgery. If you’re struggling:

• Discuss smoking cessation programs with your doctor
• Consider nicotine replacement therapy (under guidance)
• Use support groups or counseling
• Be honest about challenges
• Know that quitting is possible with help

“I have diabetes—am I higher risk?”

Diabetic patients have slightly higher surgical risk, but:

• Benefits often outweigh risks
• Diabetes frequently improves or resolves after surgery
• Careful blood sugar management reduces risk
• Experienced surgeons like Dr. Navarrete specialize in diabetic patients
• Many diabetic patients have excellent outcomes

“Will insurance cover my surgery?”

In the U.S., about 50% of insurance plans cover bariatric surgery if you meet criteria. However, self-pay in Mexico with Dr. Navarrete costs less than most U.S. insurance out-of-pocket expenses and avoids months of insurance requirements.

“What if I’m approved but nervous about committing?”

It’s normal to have concerns. Consider:

• Attending a support group
• Talking to previous patients
• Discussing fears with Dr. Navarrete
• Taking time to reflect (within reason)
• Exploring what’s causing hesitation

Don’t rush, but don’t let fear prevent you from transforming your health.

Take Action Today

Understanding whether you’re a candidate for bariatric surgery is the crucial first step toward transforming your health and life. While this guide provides valuable information, only a thorough evaluation with an experienced bariatric surgeon can definitively determine your candidacy and create a personalized treatment plan.

Why Choose Dr. Carlos Navarrete for Your Evaluation?

Comprehensive, personalized assessment:

• ✅ Thorough medical history review
• ✅ Evaluation of your unique health situation
• ✅ Discussion of your weight loss goals
• ✅ Honest assessment of candidacy
• ✅ Recommendation of best procedure for your needs
• ✅ Clear explanation of process, risks, and benefits

No-pressure consultation:

• Understanding and compassionate approach
• Answers all your questions
• Helps you make an informed decision
• Never pushy or sales-focused
• Your wellbeing is the priority

Convenient and affordable:

• Telemedicine consultations available
• Quick scheduling
• Transparent pricing
• Affordable compared to U.S. options
• Located conveniently in Tijuana

Schedule Your Free Consultation Now

Ready to find out if you’re a candidate? Take the first step today.

During your consultation with Dr. Navarrete, you’ll:

• ✅ Receive a professional candidacy assessment
• ✅ Discuss your medical history and current health
• ✅ Learn about gastric sleeve vs gastric bypass
• ✅ Get answers to all your questions
• ✅ Understand the complete process from start to finish
• ✅ Receive a personalized quote
• ✅ Create a timeline for your transformation

No obligation. No pressure. Just honest, expert guidance to help you make the best decision for your health.

Contact Dr. Navarrete’s Office Today:

Don’t wait another day wondering if bariatric surgery could change your life. Find out if you’re a candidate and take control of your health today.

Most patients are surprised to learn they qualify for surgery. You might be closer to transformation than you think. The only way to know for sure is to schedule your consultation.

Your new life is waiting. Contact us now to begin your journey with Dr. Carlos Navarrete.