Am I a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
Is Bariatric Surgery Right for You?
If you've struggled with long-term weight loss despite trying diets, exercise, or medications, you're not alone — and it's not your fault. Obesity is a complex, chronic disease influenced by genetics, hormones, metabolism, and more. At Aurora Bariatrics, we offer evidence-based solutions to help you take back control of your health, including weight loss surgery.
Who Qualifies for Bariatric Surgery?
You may be eligible for weight loss surgery if you meet any of the following criteria:
- BMI over 40, regardless of other health conditions
- BMI over 35 with at least one obesity-related condition:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
- PCOS or infertility
- BMI over 30 with signs of metabolic disease
(Adjusted thresholds may apply for people from Asian or Indigenous backgrounds due to differences in body composition and risk factors)
BMI Classifications: Where Do You Sit?
Use our
BMI Calculator to estimate your BMI and better understand your weight category:
| BMI Score | Category | Action Required | Health Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 16 | Severe Thinness | Dietician | Increased |
| 16 - 17 | Moderate Thinness | Dietician | Increased |
| 17 - 18.5 | Mild Thinness | None | Low |
| 18.5 - 25 | Normal | None | Low |
| 25 - 30 | Overweight | Book | Increased |
| 30 - 35 | Obese (Class I) | Book | Moderate |
| 35 - 40 | Obese (Class II) | Book | Severe |
| 40-50 | Obese (Class III) | Book | Very Severe |
| > 50 | Super Obese | Book | Life Limiting |
Other Eligibility Considerations
- Age: Most patients are aged 18–65 years
- Smoking: You must be smoke- and vape-free for at least 3 months before surgery
- Medical History: Previous surgeries, medications, or certain chronic conditions may affect your candidacy — we assess this individually
Have You Tried Everything?
Most of our patients have already tried multiple weight loss methods. Bariatric surgery isn’t about “giving up” — it’s a medically proven treatment for a chronic condition that often resists traditional approaches.
Surgery is a Tool — Not a Shortcut
Weight loss surgery resets your metabolism and helps regulate hunger hormones — but your long-term success still relies on lifestyle change, nutrition, and support.
At Aurora Bariatrics, we provide you with the tools, education, and expert team to help you succeed, for life.
What Makes Aurora Different?
We don’t just look at your BMI — we consider your whole story.
- Expert surgical and medical assessment
- Personalised care plans with realistic goals
- Ongoing support from your surgeon, GP, dietitian, nurse practitioner, and mental health team
- Education around procedures, lifestyle changes, nutrition, and more
Take the First Step Today
Still unsure if you qualify? You're not alone — and you don’t need to figure it out alone either. Our friendly team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s explore your options together.
