Top 5 Risks/Considerations of Bariatric Surgery

While bariatric surgery is generally a very positive step for any person suffering from morbid obesity, there are, of course, risks and considerations that must be taken into account before moving forward.

• Have you prepared yourself BEFORE surgery?  Some patients who are considering bariatric surgery are actually malnourished.  You need to adjust your diet and start an exercise program preferably before you have surgery.  Surgery (and the anesthesia) place stress on your heart and lungs.  You’ll handle this better if you prepare yourself prior to surgery.
• Infection. Bariatric surgery is major surgery and comes with the risk of infection. Walk as much as you can, stay hydrated and follow your post-op directions to avoid infection.  If you have pain or THINK you have an infection, call your surgeon.
  
• Nutritional Deficiencies. As you eat less, your body receives fewer nutrients. Be sure to follow your prescribed diet and supplementation guidelines, as these will allow you to get the nutrition you need.
  
• The gastric sleeve procedure and gastric bypass procedure are not reversible and you will have to live with your decision for the rest of your life.
• If you choose gastric bypass, you will need to stick to a very strict diet. When you don’t, dumping syndrome, which is very uncomfortable, can occur. While non-life-threatening, dumping syndrome is the result of consuming high fat and high sugar foods. Gastric bypass patients will also have to supplement their diet with vitamins for the rest of their lives.