Criteria for Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery isn’t just for extreme cases anymore. Updated medical standards and insurance policies mean more people now qualify for surgery than ever before. At Tennessee Style Weight Loss, we focus on helping you understand whether you meet the criteria and what that means for your next steps.
Understanding BMI and Eligibility
Body Mass Index (BMI) is one of the main tools used to determine candidacy. In general:
A BMI of 40 or above is considered an automatic qualifier for surgery.
A BMI of 35 or higher with a related health condition — such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, or high blood pressure — also typically qualifies.
These guidelines exist because obesity and its related conditions are difficult to manage through lifestyle changes alone, and surgery provides a safe, effective medical solution.
Expanding Access GLP-1
With the rise of medications like GLP-1s, insurance companies have begun revisiting their criteria. Many now approve surgery at a BMI as low as 30 when combined with another health issue, recognizing that surgery often offers the same or better long-term outcomes at a lower overall cost.
For patients who choose to self-pay, international guidelines already recognize BMI 30 with a comorbidity as an accepted standard. In many cases, the one-time expense of surgery is less than a year’s worth of weight loss medication.
What Happens Once You Qualify?
Meeting the criteria is the first step — but it’s only the beginning of your journey. From there, Dr. Jameil Abou-Hanna and our team create a personalized plan based on your medical history, goals, and lifestyle. For example:
Patients with higher BMIs may be guided toward procedures offering greater calorie restriction or malabsorption.
Patients struggling with reflux may be recommended a different surgical option that better addresses their symptoms.
At Tennessee Style Weight Loss, we offer the full spectrum of bariatric procedures — including Sleeve Gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, SADI, and Revision Surgeries — and tailor the approach to what works best for your body.
Insurance and Timelines
Insurance requirements vary widely. Some plans approve surgery right away, while others may require several months of supervised weight-loss visits before authorization. Our staff works directly with your insurance provider to make the process as smooth as possible.
Taking the Next Step
If you meet the qualifications, the next step is a consultation with our team to begin the pre-surgery process, which includes nutritional counseling, medical clearances, and lifestyle preparation. From your first visit to your post-op follow-ups, we’re here to make sure the path is safe, structured, and designed for your long-term success.