Weight Loss Surgery Risks

Weight Loss surgery is not “an easy way out.” It is a treatment option that is yet another tool patients can use to lose weight.
Change in lifestyle, healthier eating choices, portion control, improved physical activity and change in psychological approach to food, are needed to meet and maintain weight-loss goals.  The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Expert Panel stated that, without surgery, long-term weight loss is nearly impossible for those affected by severe obesity. Studies show little, long-term success with diet and exercise alone.  Weight loss surgeries are effective in maintaining long-term weight loss, in part, because these procedures change the body’s natural responses to dieting that make weight loss so difficult. 

Below are major risks that are associated with surgery, and more specific risks associated with weight loss surgery.  The list is not all inclusive, please speak with our bariatric surgeons to understand what specific risks you may face by undergoing weight loss surgery:

-        Infection (abscess, leak from a staple line)

-        Bleeding

-        Organ injury (Spleen, Esophagus, intestine)

-        Stricture

-        Small bowel obstruction

-        Internal hernia

-        Fistula

-        Deep vein blood clots

-        Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in/to the lung)

-        Food intolerance

-        Development of gallstones or gallbladder disease

-        Heartburn, Reflux, ulcers

-        Anemia, vitamin/mineral deficiency, protein malnutrition

-        Temporary hair loss

-        Dumping syndrome - intolerance to refined sugar, possibly fat

-        Dehydration

-        Need for more surgery (revision surgery)

-        Sepsis (intubation, ICU stay…)

-        Prolonged hospital stay

-        Instrumentation failure may or may not result in additional surgery

-        Pregnancy is not recommended during the first one and a half years of active weight loss

-        Weight gain, failure to lose satisfactory weight