In India, the recommended BMI thresholds for bariatric surgery are lower than Western guidelines because Indian body composition carries greater metabolic risk at lower BMI levels.
BMI 40 or above — qualifies for bariatric surgery regardless of whether other health conditions are present
BMI 35 to 39.9 with at least one obesity-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, fatty liver, or joint disease
BMI 32.5 to 34.9 with significant obesity-related conditions — this lower threshold is recognised in Indian guidelines given the higher metabolic risk in the South Asian population
BMI is a starting point, not the only criterion. A thorough assessment of overall health, previous weight loss attempts, co-morbidities, and surgical fitness is required before any decision is made. I evaluate each patient individually at NiSH Clinic, Jayanagar, Bengaluru.
Written by Dr Niranjan P, MBBS (Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka), DNB General Surgery (National Board of Examinations, New Delhi), Consultant General, GI, Laparoscopic, Robotic and Bariatric Surgeon, NiSH Clinic, 48, 7th B Main Rd, 4th Block, Jayanagar, Bengaluru 560011.
