Risks and Benefits

Weight Loss surgery offers continued benefits for people who live their life struggling with obesity. But more importantly, weight loss surgery saves lives.

Those obesity related health conditions which improve or resolve after weight loss surgery include:

Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure and heart disease
High Cholesterol
Osteoarthritis of weight-bearing joints
Depression
Sleep apnea/respiratory problems
Gastroesophageal reflux/heartburn
Infertility
Urinary stress incontinence
Menstrual irregularities
Asthma
Skin breakdown
Swollen legs/skin ulcers
Extremity venous stasis
Maintainance of Long-Term Weight Loss

Potential risks of bariatric surgery may include the following:

Pneumonia
Abscess
Wound Infection
Urinary Tract Infection
Hemorrhage
Transfusions
Bowel Obstruction
Leakage of Bowel Connections
Obstruction of the Stomach Outlet
Band Slippage
Chronic Nutritional Problems
Protein Deficiency
Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency

The possible side effects may include the following:

Nausea
Food Intolerance including red meats, sugar and milk products
Other side effects include transient hair loss and loss of muscle mass.

It is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your surgeon to evaluate whether surgery is right for you. He or she will make sure all your questions are answered.