What Can Disqualify You From Bariatric Surgery? Key Factors Explained

Bariatric surgery can be life-changing, helping patients achieve dramatic weight loss, reverse obesity-related diseases, and improve quality of life. But not everyone qualifies. Understanding what can disqualify you from bariatric surgery is just as important as knowing the benefits, so you can prepare for success—or explore alternative options.

At BASS Bariatric Surgery Center, we believe informed patients make better decisions. Below, we’ll walk through the main factors that can affect your eligibility, why they matter, and what you can do if you don’t qualify right away.

Why Bariatric Surgery Eligibility Matters

Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool, but it’s also a major operation that requires careful planning. Eligibility criteria exist to:

• Protect your health and safety by minimizing surgical risks.
• Improve long-term outcomes so patients achieve and sustain weight loss.
• Ensure individualized care by considering your full medical history.
• Maximize benefits such as diabetes remission, improved heart health, and enhanced quality of life.

Meeting these criteria doesn’t just get you into the operating room—it sets you up for long-term success.

Factors That May Disqualify You From Bariatric Surgery

While only a bariatric surgeon can make the final determination, several factors can limit your candidacy:

1. Age Limitations

Most bariatric programs won’t perform surgery on patients under 16 or over 75 years old. Younger patients may not be emotionally or physically ready, while older patients face higher risks during surgery and recovery.

2. Active Substance Abuse

Alcohol or drug addiction can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications. Many programs require patients to demonstrate sustained sobriety before being approved.

3. Severe Respiratory Problems

Patients with advanced lung disease may face increased risks with anesthesia and recovery. Your surgeon may recommend addressing respiratory health before moving forward.

4. Significant Heart Disease

A history of serious cardiovascular conditions may require further testing or treatment before surgery is considered safe.

5. Autoimmune or Blood Disorders

Certain autoimmune conditions or blood clotting disorders can complicate healing and increase risks. These don’t always disqualify you, but they require careful management and clearance from specialists.

Improving Your Chances of Eligibility

Having one or more risk factors does not automatically mean bariatric surgery is off the table. Many patients can improve their candidacy by:

• Treating underlying conditions (heart, lung, or autoimmune disease).
• Completing required psychological evaluations to demonstrate readiness.
• Meeting insurance-required documentation, such as prior weight loss attempts.
• Attending pre-surgery nutrition and education programs.

Your surgeon’s role is to evaluate both risks and benefits, then recommend the safest, most effective path forward.

Next Steps: Navigating Your Weight Loss Journey

If you’re concerned you might not qualify, don’t be discouraged. A consultation with a bariatric specialist is the only way to know for sure. Even if surgery isn’t recommended, your care team can guide you toward alternative weight loss strategies, medications, or non-surgical procedures.

At BASS Bariatric Surgery Center, our board-certified surgeons Dr. Brian Chin and Dr. Jason Moy provide comprehensive evaluations, education, and support to help you make the best decision for your health.

Call us today at (925) 940-1052 to schedule your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you be denied bariatric surgery?‍

Yes. Patients may be denied if the risks outweigh the benefits—for example, due to uncontrolled medical conditions or active substance abuse.‍

Do mental health issues disqualify you?‍

Not automatically. A psychological evaluation is required to ensure you’re emotionally prepared. With proper support, many patients with depression or anxiety still qualify.

What BMI do you need for bariatric surgery?‍

Most programs require a BMI of 40+, or a BMI of 35+ with obesity-related conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea.