Candidates for Surgery
Bariatric surgery is not a cosmetic procedure, it is a proven, medically supported intervention for individuals struggling with obesity and its related health risks. At the Obesity Unit in Johannesburg, we follow internationally recognised guidelines to assess who is eligible for surgery and whether it’s the right option for you. If you have tried diet and lifestyle changes without long-term success, or if your weight is affecting your health and quality of life, surgery may be the next step.
General Eligibility Criteria
You may be a candidate for bariatric surgery if you meet one or more of the following:
- BMI ≥ 40, even without other health problems
BMI ≥ 35, with at least one serious obesity-related condition such as:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Infertility (including PCOS)
- Osteoarthritis or limited mobility
- You have attempted non-surgical weight loss methods without sustained success
- You are psychologically and physically fit to undergo surgery
- You are motivated to make long-term lifestyle changes
- You are between the ages of 18 and 65 (with some exceptions)
Note: We also consider patients with a BMI of 30–34.9 for metabolic surgery if they have uncontrolled type 2 diabetes or other high-risk metabolic conditions.
Beyond BMI: The Whole-Person Approach
At the Obesity Unit, we don’t rely on numbers alone. We evaluate your overall health, motivation, lifestyle, and support systems to determine your readiness for surgery. Our team includes specialists in endocrinology, psychology, nutrition, and bariatric surgery, working together to ensure your care is safe, comprehensive, and tailored to your goals.
During your preoperative assessment, we will:
- Perform a full medical and nutritional evaluation
- Review your personal and family history of obesity and chronic illness
- Assess your psychological readiness and support system
- Educate you about the benefits, risks, and long-term commitment required
Who May Not Be a Candidate
Bariatric surgery may not be recommended for individuals with:
- Untreated eating disorders such as binge eating or bulimia
- Severe untreated psychiatric conditions
- Substance abuse issues
- Uncontrolled endocrine disorders
- Inability to commit to long-term follow-up
In such cases, we may recommend a period of preoperative optimisation, including medical therapy, dietary support, or psychological intervention, before reconsidering surgery.
Alternative Options
If you do not currently meet the criteria for surgery, you may still benefit from:
- A GLP-1 agonist programme (e.g. Ozempic or Wegovy)
- Nutritional counselling and metabolic assessment
- A monitored non-surgical weight loss programme
- Referral to allied specialists for specific health concerns
Our goal is to help you lose weight safely and sustainably, whether through surgery or other evidence-based therapies.
Take the Next Step
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, the best first step is a personalised assessment with our team. We’ll help you understand your options and create a plan that aligns with your health status, goals, and lifestyle.
Book a consultation at our Johannesburg centre today to find out if bariatric surgery is right for you.