The following are the pre- and post-surgical criteria for all patients considering surgery for their obesity established by the National Health Institute, American Society for Bariatric Surgery, Bellin Health Bariatric Center and Surgery Specialists of Green Bay:

• Body weight of at least 100 pounds over ideal weight or 100 percent above ideal body weight or BMI (Body Mass Index) 35-39 with significant medical problems or BMI of 40 or greater. (We can assist you to calculate this).
• No endocrine cause of obesity such as hypothyroidism or adrenal gland problems
• Severe weight related disorders must be documented if your BMI is 35-39; Note: some insurance companies require this for BMI of 40 or greater also
• Must have documented failed attempts at weight loss treatment
• Must verbalize understanding of the surgery and risks and be an acceptable operative risk.
• Absence of drug/alcohol problems or suicide attempt and if there is a history of this, stability must be documented for at least a year to be considered.
• No uncontrolled psychological conditions and if present, stability for at least 6-12 months is required; Example: if you are currently being treated with medications for a psychiatric condition and your medications are being adjusted, then that may be considered uncontrolled or if you require visits to your psychiatric provider two to four times a month to manage your condition, this doesn’t demonstrate stability.
• Psychological evaluations are required of all patients and must be done by our psychologist. You must be willing to participate in this and individual psychotherapy if indicated after the initial evaluation.
• Must have support as indicated by letter of medical necessity from your primary care physician.
• Must be willing to participate in screening, evaluation, education, history and physical by Bellin Health Bariatric Program nurse practitioner.
• Consensus of bariatric team after evaluation (nurse practitioner, psychiatrist, dietitian, surgeon, and other specialists) for approval.
• Dedicated to make lifestyle change, must be motivated and well-informed to include demonstrated willingness to make changes in eating habits, establish regular exercise program and are motivated towards weight loss.
• Pre-operative evaluations, tests and labs will be required and will be determined by your medical history and insurance requirements.
• Maintain contact with your primary care physician for follow-up after surgery.
• Do not desire to become pregnant for a period of one year following surgery as rapid weight loss can harm a developing fetus.
• Must take vitamin and mineral supplements for life to include Multivitamin twice a day, Calcium with Vitamin D twice a day and Vitamin B12 daily for life.
• Must follow up with surgeon for regular post-surgical visits at 10-14 days after surgery for staple and drain removal; then 1 month & 3 months; Then at 6 months, 12 months, and yearly after that and as needed at the Bariatric clinic.