You have weighed options and tried diets and you still wonder: Am I a candidate for surgical weight loss solutions? If you are a Gold Coast resident who is feeling that frustration, we are here to help. We understand how emotional and confusing this journey can feel. Read our clear, supportive guide to finding out whether a surgical weight loss solution suits your health and goals and what positive next steps you can take.
Who Qualifies For Surgical Weight Loss Solutions?
Eligibility in Australia generally follows updated international and national guidelines:
- Adults must be aged between approximately 18 and 65 years (though exceptions exist)
- The adult must have a BMI ≥ 35 kg/m², or BMI ≥ 30-34.9 kg/m² with obesity-related comorbidities (e.g. Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea, hypertension).
At Dr Puhalla’s Gold Coast practice, we also assess individual weight history, previous diet failures, medical conditions, lifestyle and psychosocial readiness because surgery is a big step, not a quick fix.
Why Do These Criteria Matter?
- BMI and comorbidities define the risk-benefit balance:
Patients with severe obesity or poor diabetes control reap major health gains when non-surgical methods have not worked.
- A comprehensive assessment ensures we tailor care safely:
For instance, uncontrolled psychiatric illness or substance dependency typically rules out surgery until addressed.
- Motivation and readiness:
We evaluate whether you understand the risks and are committed to the lifestyle changes, and we follow up with dietitians and support teams.
What If You Do Not Qualify?
Not qualifying does not mean no solution. We stay supportive and offer alternative routes:
- Lifestyle programs: Supervised nutrition and exercise coaching.
- Medical support: Working with GP and endocrinologist for diabetes, hypertension or weight medications.
- Referral: We will connect you to compassionate specialists if needed
You’ll stay part of our network. When you make progress, we re-evaluate eligibility together. Our goal: help you reach your health goals, one step at a time.
How We Guide Gold Coast Patients Through Evaluation
- We take a full weight and medical history: onset, fluctuations, previous surgeries, diets and medication.
- We calculate your BMI and metabolic health markers.
- We confirm medical comorbidities like T2D, sleep apnoea or fatty liver with blood tests, a detailed history, function tests, FibroScan® and other options if needed. Each individual is unique and the assessment is adjusted to this.
- We conduct pre-operative investigations, including blood tests (HbA1c, lipid profile, and nutrient levels), an echocardiogram or chest X-ray if indicated.
- We assess your psychological readiness and your understanding of the lifelong commitment involved.
- We discuss which surgical weight loss solution fits best – sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass or an alternative – and explain potential outcomes.
Why Choose Our Surgical Weight Loss Solutions on the Gold Coast?
- Dr Harald Puhalla brings over 20 years of experience and academic expertise in bariatric surgery.
- Based at Pacific Private Clinic, Southport, with surgery at Gold Coast Private Hospital and Pindara Hospital, our team offers local excellence and continuity.
- We align with Evidence-based care, clear communication and ongoing support.
We believe everyone deserves hope, even if surgery is not immediately right for now. We help you understand the criteria, your options and what meaningful steps you can take now.
Book a consultation to assess your surgical weight loss solution eligibility now.
