What Is BMI and Its Significance to Weight Loss Surgery?
Your BMI is your Body Mass Index, which is a formula that is used to calculate your level of body fat.
BMI scores are based upon your height to weight ratio, and is a useful tool in analyzing weight level categories.
Our BMI calculator can help us to determine if bariatric surgery is best for you.
A healthy BMI score is regarded as one that falls between 18.5 and 24.9. A BMI that falls below 18.5 is considered underweight, while a BMI that falls above a 24.9 is considered overweight. A BMI that falls above 30 is considered obese.
Note: Bariatric or weight loss surgery requires BMI measurement. Other surgeries such as Gallbladder Surgery and Hiatal Hernia Repair do not have a strict BMI requirement.
BMI (Body Mass Index) calculates your body fat to your height and weight. According to the American Society of Bariatric Surgeons, the minimum amount of BMI for you to have weight loss surgery is 29 to 30.
For Dr. Choi, a BMI of 40 or above is required, or 35+ if you have obesity-related health conditions like diabetes.
Any person with any BMI at any age can have gallbladder problems, it can affect anyone, everyone.
Lap-band surgery, even for individuals with a BMI of 30 to 40 can be helpful. Studies show that patients with lower BMI can achieve a reduction in excess body weight within two years post-surgery.
Ozempic, Wegovy and Semaglutide have recently gained attention in Florida for their effectiveness in aiding weight loss. Semaglutide works by slowing the emptying of your stomach, which helps you feel full longer and reduces the urge to eat frequently.
While gastric sleeve surgery significantly reduces the stomach’s size, it is designed to help you reach a healthy weight, not an unhealthily low BMI.
Studies show that reducing your BMI, even by a small amount, can help improve or even resolve type 2 diabetes. Weight loss through lifestyle changes, medication, or bariatric surgery has been proven to lower blood sugar levels and reduce the need for diabetes medications.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is more common in individuals with higher BMIs, as excess weight puts pressure on the stomach, causing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Over two-thirds of U.S. adults are classified as overweight or obese, increasing the prevalence of GERD among this population.
Yes, having an elevated BMI has been linked to an increased risk of developing several types of cancer. Research shows that being overweight or obese can raise the risk for cancers such as breast cancer (in post-menopausal women), colorectal cancer, endometrial cancer, esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and kidney cancer.
A BMI (Body Mass Index) calculator helps you quickly assess whether your weight is in a healthy range based on your height and weight. If your BMI is below 18.5, you’re considered underweight, while a BMI over 24.9 is classified as overweight. A BMI over 30 indicates obesity. Curious about your BMI? If you are in Florida, you can book a consultation with Dr. Choi for more accurate professional guidance.
Always consult your doctor for treatment of any medical conditions or before deciding on surgery.
Do not treat the content on this website as medical advice.
4390 N Federal Hwy Suite #206
Fort Lauderdale, 33308
Broward County, Florida
© Dr. Michael Choi