Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women. If you are concerned about your BMI number, please contact your doctor.

BMI Categories:
Underweight = <18.5
Normal weight = 18.5-24.9
Overweight = 25-29.9
Obese = 30-34.9
Severly Obese = 35 – 39.9
Morbidly Obese = 40+

• Overview
• Patient Follow-up
• Post Surgical Care
• Refer a Patient
• Surgical Criteria
• Updates

Criteria for Surgery

1. Patients must be at least 18 years of age.
2. Patients must have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater or be at least 100 pounds overweight.
3. Candidates may have a BMI between 35 and 39 if they have two obesity related co-morbidities.
4. Patients must weigh less than 400 pounds on the day of surgery.
5. Candidates must demonstrate sufficient cognitive understanding of the procedure, risks and postoperative behavioral modifications required.
6. Patients must attend all preoperative educational programs as outlined in the consent policy developed by Winchester Medical Center Bariatric Program.
7. Women who undergo bariatric surgery must understand the importance of avoiding pregnancy for at least 12 months after the procedure.
8. Patients must discontinue any nicotine usage at least 8 weeks preoperatively.
9. Patients must be free of any active substance abuse.
10. Patients who have a history of psychiatric illness must have documentation by their mental health provider that their illness is well controlled.