You’ve tried everything—diet after diet, endless exercise routines, and weight loss supplements—but the scale barely moves. You may feel exhausted, frustrated, and even hopeless as you struggle to manage your weight. Simple tasks like walking up the stairs leave you breathless, and your joints ache from carrying excess pounds. You are also worried about conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea.
If this sounds familiar, you might be wondering if weight loss surgery is the right step for you. While surgery can be life-changing, it’s not a decision to take lightly. The right time for weight loss surgery depends on several factors, including your health, weight, and previous weight loss attempts. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we help explore their weight loss options and achieve and maintain their ideal weight.
In this article, we discuss when it’s the right time to consider weight loss surgery.
You have a BMI of 40 or higher
One of the significant indicators that you may qualify for weight loss surgery is having a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher. A BMI in this range classifies you as having severe obesity, putting you at risk for life-threatening conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. At this level, weight loss through traditional methods becomes increasingly difficult due to metabolic and hormonal changes.
If you’ve struggled with excess weight for years without success, weight loss surgery can provide a structured, medically supervised solution. Bariatric procedures like gastric sleeve or gastric bypass reduce stomach size and help regulate hunger hormones, making it easier to maintain long-term weight loss.
You have a BMI of 35 or higher with severe health conditions
Even if your BMI is lower, a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health problems could still qualify you for surgery. Conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or fatty liver disease increase your risk of serious complications and early death.
Weight loss surgery can help manage or even reverse these conditions. Studies show that bariatric surgery helps many patients reduce their reliance on medications and, in some cases, even achieve remission from diabetes. If your excess weight is damaging your health, it may be time to consider a more aggressive solution.
You’ve tried other methods without success
Many people struggle with weight loss despite diet and exercise. If you’ve tried multiple weight loss programs but keep regaining the weight, it may indicate an underlying issue with your metabolism, hormones, or genetics. Obesity isn’t just about willpower—it’s often a complex medical condition requiring a comprehensive treatment approach.
Weight loss surgery can help reset your body's weight regulation system, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight. However, surgery still requires long-term lifestyle changes, including diet modifications and exercise. If you’ve been committed to weight loss efforts but haven’t seen lasting results, surgery might be the next step.
Your weight is affecting your mobility
Carrying excess weight can make everyday activities difficult and painful. If you struggle with joint pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue, your weight may significantly impact your mobility. Conditions like osteoarthritis, especially in the knees and hips, are also worsened by obesity, making movement even more challenging.
Losing weight can relieve pressure on your joints and improve overall energy levels, endurance, and well-being. If you’re missing out on activities you once loved—whether it’s playing with your kids, hiking, or even just walking—it may be time to consider surgical options.
Your mental and emotional health is suffering
Obesity doesn’t just affect your physical health—it can take a toll on your mental well-being. If you feel depressed, anxious, or have low self-esteem due to your weight, it could be time to explore medical weight loss options. Many people with obesity experience social stigma, discrimination, and emotional distress, leading to further isolation and unhealthy eating habits.
Weight loss surgery isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about reclaiming confidence and improving one's quality of life. After significant weight loss, patients often report increased self-esteem, better relationships, and greater overall happiness.
Non-surgical options for weight loss
If you’re not ready for surgery, you still have effective non-surgical weight loss options. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we provide weight loss solutions that can help you shed excess weight without invasive procedures. Here are some top non-surgical methods:
GLP-1 weight loss medications
Medications like semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, which helps regulate blood sugar and reduce appetite. These FDA-approved medications can help patients lose 10–20% of their body weight over time. GLP-1 treatments slow digestion and reduce food cravings, helping you feel fuller for longer. Genesis Lifestyle Medicine proudly offers medically supervised GLP-1 weight loss programs.
Physician-guided counseling
A major reason diets fail is the lack of proper guidance and support. Instead of following generic meal plans, a customized nutrition program tailored to your metabolism, preferences, and health conditions can lead to sustainable weight loss. Genesis Lifestyle Medicine offers physician-guided coaching to help you build healthy habits that last. Our experts focus on nutrient-dense, balanced diets that prevent cravings, improve energy levels, and optimize weight loss.
Deciding whether weight loss surgery is right for you is a deeply personal decision, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If your weight is severely impacting your health, mobility, or quality of life, surgery may be a powerful tool. However, if you’re looking for non-surgical options, GLP-1 medications can also be highly effective. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we’re dedicated to helping you find the best weight loss solution. Contact us today for a personalized consultation.
