What criteria should I use to refer a patient for bariatric surgery?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 14 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Offer adults a referral for a comprehensive assessment by specialist weight management services to consider bariatric surgery if:

  • The person has a body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m or more.
  • Or the person has a BMI between 35 and 40 kg/m with a significant health condition that could be improved by weight loss, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or severe mobility problems.
  • The person agrees to the necessary long-term follow-up after surgery, including life-long reviews.
  • For people of South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African, or African-Caribbean family backgrounds, consider a lower BMI threshold reduced by 2.5 kg/m due to increased cardiometabolic risk at lower BMI.

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