According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), patients are candidates for weight loss surgery if they meet all or most of the following criteria:

– Morbid obesity (*BMI (Body Mass Index) > 35 kg/m2 or BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 with comorbidities)

–Overweight (*BMI (Body Mass Index) > 27 kg/m2 to 32 kg/m2 with or without comorbidities, you are a candidate for an intragastric balloon.

– Have failed to lose weight with diet and exercise.

– Are prepared to change their eating habits.

– Do not abuse any substances (drugs/alcohol).

– Are well-informed on their treatment options.

– Have acceptable operative risks.

On February 2011, the FDA approved the expanded use of the Lap Band for individuals with a BMI over 30 and at least one obesity-related condition.

Lap band surgery should be considered as a good option for patients whose BMI is not too high.