Am I a Candidate for Weight Loss Treatment?
Use this BMI calculator to get a starting point for whether you may qualify for bariatric surgery, gastric balloon, or prescription weight-loss medications. BMI is only one factor — your health history, goals, prior attempts, and medical risks also matter.
BMI Calculator
Enter your height and weight below. The calculator will estimate your BMI and show which JourneyLite treatment categories you may want to discuss.
BMI does not diagnose health status by itself. A consultation is required to determine candidacy.
Your BMI result and possible treatment categories will appear here.
BMI Guidelines by Treatment Option
These are general guideline ranges. Final eligibility depends on medical history, age, anatomy, prior procedures, insurance requirements, and provider evaluation.
Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery options include gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, SADI/SIPS, Lap Band, and revisional bariatric surgery.
- BMI 35+ may qualify under modern ASMBS/IFSO guidelines
- BMI 30–34.9 may be considered with metabolic disease in selected patients
- Many insurance plans still use older rules: BMI 40+ or BMI 35+ with qualifying conditions
Gastric Balloon
Gastric balloon treatment may be an option for patients who want a non-surgical weight-loss tool.
- Common FDA indication range: BMI 30–40
- Allurion is indicated for adults age 22–65 with BMI 30–40 after at least one unsuccessful weight-loss attempt
- Not every patient is anatomically or medically appropriate for a balloon
GLP-1 Medications
Prescription medications may be appropriate for some patients as part of a medical weight-loss program.
- BMI 30+ may qualify for chronic weight-management medication
- BMI 27+ may qualify if at least one weight-related condition is present
- Medication choice depends on history, contraindications, cost, availability, and treatment goals
What Counts as a Weight-Related Condition?
A weight-related condition can affect eligibility for surgery, medications, or insurance coverage. Common examples include:
- Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
- High blood pressure
- Sleep apnea
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
- Fatty liver disease
- Joint pain or arthritis worsened by weight
- GERD, PCOS, or other obesity-related conditions
BMI Is Only the First Step
Two patients with the same BMI may need very different plans. JourneyLite also looks at your weight history, prior attempts, medications, reflux symptoms, diabetes status, surgical history, and preferences.
- Insurance rules may differ from medical guidelines
- Self-pay criteria may differ from insurance criteria
- Some patients are better suited for surgery, while others may start with medication or balloon
Common Next Steps Based on BMI
Medication May Be Worth Discussing
If you have a weight-related condition, GLP-1 medications or another medical weight-loss option may be appropriate. Surgery and balloon are usually not the first-line options at this BMI.
Learn about medication options →Several Options May Apply
Depending on your health history, you may be a candidate for medical weight loss, gastric balloon, or possibly bariatric surgery in selected cases, especially with metabolic disease.
Learn about balloon options →Surgery May Be a Strong Option
Modern bariatric guidelines support surgery at BMI 35+ regardless of whether major obesity-related conditions are present. Some insurance plans may still require qualifying conditions.
Explore surgical weight loss →Bariatric Surgery Is Commonly Considered
Bariatric surgery is often one of the most effective options for patients with BMI 40+. Procedure choice depends on your medical history, reflux, diabetes, goals, and surgical risk.
Request a consultation →Self-Pay and Pricing Options
If insurance coverage is limited or unavailable, JourneyLite offers self-pay and financing options for many treatments. Pricing varies by procedure and eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What BMI qualifies for bariatric surgery?
What BMI qualifies for gastric balloon?
What BMI qualifies for GLP-1 medication?
Can I qualify for more than one option?
Is BMI the only factor?
Can I start with a virtual visit?
Ready to Find Out Which Option Fits You?
Your BMI is a starting point. JourneyLite can help you compare surgery, gastric balloon, and GLP-1 medication options based on your health, goals, and budget.
This page is for general educational information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. BMI guidelines are screening tools and do not guarantee eligibility. Individual candidacy, insurance coverage, self-pay eligibility, medication safety, procedure choice, and expected results vary. A consultation and medical evaluation are required.
