BMI - Body Mass Index and Stomach Surgery

Body Mass Index, or BMI, is a standard measurement used by medical professional. Body Mass Index is a number that's reached mathematically by comparing your weight to your height. The higher your Body Mass Index number, the more obese you are considered to be. Body Mass Index is one of the factors considered by doctors in determining if you should have stomach surgery for weight control.

The Body Mass Index formula is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in meters.

If your Body Mass Index is above 35, your health may be in danger due to complications from obesity. If you've worked with your doctor, but you haven't been able to reduce your Body Mass Index with diet and exercise, your doctor may consider stomach surgery to help you control your weight--and improve your prospects for a longer life.

Also see our articles on bariatric surgery and gastric bypass surgery.