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For the first time in 30 years new guidelines have been released making more people eligible
for weight-loss surgery. The American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS)
and the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO)
recently revealed the recommendations.
The guidelines now recommend metabolic and bariatric surgery for anyone with a body mass
index (BMI) over 35. Previously, individuals had to have a BMI of at least 40, or a BMI of 35+
and at least one obesity-related health condition like high blood pressure or heart disease.
They expanded patient eligibility and endorsed weight-loss surgery for people with type 2
diabetes starting at a BMI of 30. Before, it was a BMI of 35.
There are also changes for people of Asian descent. The BMI requirement for surgery has been
dropped to 27.5 because they often have weight-related health problems starting at a lower
body mass.
Children and adolescents with severe obesity who in the past have been excluded from weight-
loss surgery are now eligible under the new criteria as well. More specifically, those with BMI
greater than 140% of the 95th percentile, or greater than 120% of the 95th percentile plus a
comorbidity, may be evaluated.
WHY THE NEW WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY GUIDELINES?
The ASMBS and IFSO overhauled the guidelines because over the past three decades, weight-
loss surgery has evolved and proven to be a safe, effective treatment for severe obesity. It can
also help reverse or improve dozens of weight-related diseases.
The two groups of bariatric surgeons say the previous guidelines were inadequate in coping
with America’s growing levels of obesity.
At last count, the CDC says 42% of Americans are considered obese and the rate of severe
obesity is increasing.
"There is a great deal of data demonstrating the positive impact of weight loss surgery for
patients with a BMI between 30 and 40. Its effectiveness in treating serious medical conditions,
like high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, and coronary artery disease have been well
documented in these patients. It’s good to see that the guidelines for weight loss surgery have
been modified to reflect this. Hopefully, more patients will now have access to this powerful tool
to improve their overall health, life expectancy, and self-image," says Dr. Jeffrey Chiao, NYBG
bariatric surgeon.
BARIATRIC SURGERY AND INSURANCE
Obesity is a leading cause of preventable death in the United States. The primary focus of
weight loss with bariatric surgery is to treat the dangerous health conditions and diseases
associated with obesity.
Since weight loss surgery is medically driven, all requests for approval for these procedures are
based on a medical diagnosis by your surgeon. Most insurance policies will cover bariatric
surgery, but their statuses change often. Navigating insurance can be a confusing process, but
at New York Bariatric Group we have helped thousands of patients understand their insurance
options with successful approval. For questions about insurance, we will be happy to go over
your options.
NYBG: YOUR PARTNER IN LONG-TERM WEIGHT LOSS
When it’s time to start a successful weight-loss transformation, it’s time to call NYBG!
Bariatric surgery is a safe, effective long-term weight-loss solution that helps thousands of
people lose weight and keep it off. Many studies show that patients maintain 50% to 70% loss
of excess weight 10+ years after bariatric surgery.
We’re the best practice around and our numbers prove it:
- 27 skilled surgeons who are leaders in bariatrics, 3 Plastic Surgeons, 21 PA’s, 1
Colorectal Surgeon, and 1 Vascular Interventional Radiologist. - 36,000 successful procedures performed with more every day
- The #1 gastric balloon practice by volume – most balloons placed in the United States
- Access to online seminars, support groups, cooking demos, and Q&A sessions
- 100s of videos for patients explaining procedures, answering common questions, and
showcasing previous patients - Multiple offices located in three states; NY, NJ, CT
- Since 2000, we boast over 20 years of success!
All of our hospitals are Metabolic Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement
Program (MBSAQIP) accredited facilities, which is a prestigious designation bestowed upon
only the top quality bariatric programs.
Stop waiting; start achieving better health today. Together, we’ve got this!
New York Bariatric Group is implementing and enforcing strict guidelines put out by the Center
of Disease Control and the Department of Health in order to keep our staff and patients safe.
We are offering in-person and virtual consultations to ensure that everyone is able to get the
information and care they deserve without feeling pressure to leave their home.
