Requirements for Bariatric Surgery in Mexico — Am I a Candidate?

Not everyone who wants to lose weight is a candidate for bariatric surgery. There are specific medical, nutritional, and psychological criteria that must be met. Understanding these requirements helps you determine if surgery is the right path and prepares you for the evaluation process.

Medical criteria for bariatric surgery

According to international guidelines followed in Mexico, the primary medical criteria include:

• BMI of 40 or higher (severe obesity), regardless of comorbidities
• BMI of 35-39.9 with at least one obesity-related comorbidity such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, or dyslipidemia
• BMI of 30-34.9 with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes (metabolic surgery indication, evaluated case by case)
• Failed attempts at sustained weight loss through non-surgical methods (diet, exercise, medication)
• Age typically between 18 and 65 (though evaluated individually outside this range)

Preoperative evaluations required

Before surgery, a comprehensive evaluation ensures you are ready and minimizes risks:

• Laboratory studies: Complete blood count, metabolic panel, liver function, thyroid function, lipid profile, HbA1c, vitamins and minerals
• Cardiac evaluation: EKG, and sometimes echocardiogram or stress test depending on your risk profile
• Upper endoscopy: To assess the stomach and esophagus for conditions like hernias, ulcers, or Barrett's esophagus
• Nutritional assessment: A registered dietitian evaluates your eating habits, nutritional status, and prepares you for post-surgical dietary changes
• Psychological evaluation: Screens for eating disorders, untreated mental health conditions, and assesses your readiness for the lifestyle changes required
• Pulmonary assessment: Sleep study if sleep apnea is suspected

Who is NOT a candidate?

Bariatric surgery may not be appropriate for patients with:

• Active substance abuse or untreated alcoholism
• Untreated severe psychiatric conditions that impair decision-making
• Inability to commit to long-term lifestyle changes and follow-up
• Certain medical conditions that make anesthesia or surgery prohibitively risky
• Active eating disorders that have not been addressed therapeutically

Preparing for your evaluation

When you schedule your evaluation consultation, having the following information ready is helpful: your current weight and height, medical history, list of medications, previous weight loss attempts, and any relevant lab results.

Dr. Monroy's team walks you through every step. Visit our Am I a Candidate? page or the Preoperative Guide for more details.