How To Get Life Insurance With a Bariatric Surgery History [2023]

Exercise and eating right are the best ways to lose weight. Many people have tried both and still can’t lose the excess weight or the excess health problems that come with it. For these people, weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, may be an option.

What You Need to Know About Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is a procedure that decreases the size of the stomach, reduces food intake and enables you to lose a significant amount of weight. It requires a lifetime commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Bariatric surgery not only helps you to lose weight but can help improve your overall health.

People tend to think bariatric surgery treats only obesity. This is not the case. Being overweight can cause many other potentially life-threatening diseases, and bariatric surgery helps improve such concerning medical conditions as:

• Heart disease and stroke

• High blood pressure

• Diabetes

• Cancer

• Chronic musculoskeletal problems

• Osteoarthritis

• Sleep apnea

• Asthma

• Infertility

Term Life Insurance and Weight Loss Surgery

There are many weight loss surgery options. Here are two of the most widely practiced types:

Gastric Bypass Surgery

During gastric bypass surgery, the smaller, upper part of the stomach is separated from the rest of the stomach with staples. The small intestine is rerouted and connected to the smaller stomach pouch. As a result, the amount of food you can eat is reduced.

Lap-Band Surgery

During Lap-Band surgery, a silicone rubber band is placed around the top of your stomach creating a pouch. After you eat, the food slowly flows from the smaller pouch into the lower part of the stomach. This makes you feel full before the food moves into the rest of the digestive tract.

Weight Loss Surgery Consultation

It is best to consult a surgeon who specializes in bariatric surgery to determine your options for treatment. Your BMI is one of the main deciding factors. A normal BMI ranges from 18.5 to 25, while 25 to 30 is considered overweight. Typically people that are approved for bariatric surgery have a BMI above 40, or their weight is causing serious health problems.

Your physician will also evaluate any existing medical conditions that may complicate surgery, medical conditions that will improve after surgery and whether you are ready to commit to a lifestyle change.

Term Life Insurance and Weight Loss Surgery

If you are overweight, it is important to steps to achieve a healthier lifestyle. Being overweight doesn’t mean life insurance is out of the question. Even with such an invasive surgical procedure, you can still get life insurance. Here’s what insurance companies will look at when considering your application:

• Pre-operative weight

• Any conditions that come with obesity, such as hypertension, diabetes or coronary disease.

• Date of surgery

• Type of surgery

• Any surgical complications

• Weight loss after surgery

• Improvement of risk factors after surgery

There will be a waiting period of at least a year after bariatric surgery to monitor progress before you can be approved for life insurance. If your results demonstrate positive improvements in your lifestyle, then you should be able to qualify for standard rates. Let your term life insurance broker know if you have had bariatric surgery or are thinking about having bariatric surgery in the future and they will assist you in choosing the best life insurance company for you.

Case Studies: Life Insurance with Bariatric Surgery History

Case Study 1: John’s Successful Journey

John underwent bariatric surgery three years ago to address his severe obesity. Following the surgery, he diligently followed a healthy diet and exercise regimen, resulting in significant weight loss and improved overall health.

When applying for term life insurance, John’s pre-operative weight, post-surgery progress, and lifestyle improvements were taken into consideration. He was able to secure a life insurance policy at standard rates, demonstrating that life insurance is attainable even after bariatric surgery.

Case Study 2: Sarah’s Steady Recovery

Sarah had bariatric surgery two years ago to combat her obesity-related health issues. Although she faced minor surgical complications during her recovery, Sarah remained committed to her weight loss journey and saw gradual improvements in her health.

When applying for term life insurance, Sarah’s medical history, including the type of surgery and the progress made, was assessed. Due to her steady recovery and positive lifestyle changes, she was able to obtain life insurance coverage, albeit with a slightly higher premium.

Case Study 3: Mark’s Ongoing Progress

Mark underwent gastric bypass surgery a year ago to address his obesity and related health conditions. While he experienced a significant initial weight loss, he faced challenges in maintaining his progress. Despite this, Mark continued to make efforts to improve his overall health and managed to stabilize his weight.

When applying for life insurance, Mark’s post-surgery progress and commitment to a healthier lifestyle were taken into account. As a result, he qualified for life insurance coverage, but with a modified premium reflecting his ongoing journey.

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