Lap-Band Surgery Eligibility: Who Can Qualify?

Lap-Band surgery may seem like magic for chronically obese people who want to shed pounds quickly, but not everyone qualifies for the procedure.

Lap-Band

• Lap-Band surgery involves placing an adjustable band around the stomach through tiny abdominal incisions. The band limits the amount of food the stomach can digest, encouraging weight loss.

Age

• According to the Lapband.us, a Lap-Band candidate must be 18 or older, with a five-year history of obesity to become eligible for the surgery.

Weight

• Lap-Band candidates must meet a certain body mass index (BMI) requirement before a medical institution will perform the surgery. The requirement may vary from center to center. According to topsurgeons.com, surgery is generally approved on patients exceeding a BMI of 27.

Health Factors

• A Lap-Band candidate's obesity must not stem from a medical condition. The candidate cannot habitually abuse alcohol.

Mental Attitude

• A Lap-Band candidate must have made sincere attempts to lose weight in the past without significant success, while expressing a sincere commitment to a new lifestyle and diet.