Surgery Options

Bariatric Surgery Safety & Risks

Bariatric surgery comes with risks, as does any major surgery. But so does being overweight.

There are serious risks and side effects to any surgery option. Is is important to understand your own potential risks and side effects to make a smart decision. From food to exercise, our team can help you navigate all aspects of life after Bariatric surgery.

What complications can occur after weight loss surgery?

As with any operation, there are potential complications associated with weight loss surgery. These include:

Leakage

Intestinal fluid spills out from where the stomach and intestines are connected. This can result in peritonitis. Leaks can be managed by a number of methods, including a re-operation.

Bleeding

May require a blood transfusion or re-operation.

Nausea

Nausea that lasts for more than several days is uncommon, and it usually resolves in a short period of time.

Iron deficiency anemia

A common late complication after a gastric bypass. Menstruating women will need to take an iron supplement. All other patients can take a multivitamin with iron.

Osteoporosis

May occur at a higher frequency in gastric bypass patients, therefore calcium supplements are recommended to help with the condition.

Hernias

Occasionally happen long after a gastric bypass and may require operative interventions.

Strictures

In the first several months after a gastric bypass, about two percent of patients may develop strictures, or scarring between the stomach and the intestine. People notice that liquids “go down” easily, but solids tend to stick. This complication can be easily remedied by an endoscopy performed by the gastroenterologist in the office.

Ulcers

Ulcers occur in some patients – especially smokers and patients that take NSAIDS (Motrin®, Aleve®, Advil®, Naproxen, etc.) Ulcers can cause bleeding or pain. Medications often help ulcers heal. If you smoke, stop now.

Bariatric Surgery – One of the Safest Surgical Procedures

A study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found the risks of bariatric surgery have dropped dramatically in the past years. Risks are lower than the longer-term risk of dying from heart disease, diabetes and other consequences of carrying more weight than a person’s organs can tolerate.

Talk to your team at Einstein Bariatrics

Our team is always available to speak with you about any questions or concerns you may have. We’re here to walk you through the weight loss surgery process and help you decide if it is right for you.

How to Qualify for Bariatric Surgery