What are the risks of obesity surgery?
All surgeries come with the possibility of complications, but fortunately their incidence is quite small. There is even a slight risk of death from the complications that may appear after obesity surgery but this is extremely rare.
The post-operative health risks of restrictive weight loss surgeries like gastric banding include:
- Slippage of the band -This and other band problems can be corrected surgically if diagnosed early.
- Food intolerances - In certain cases, food intolerances or even perforation of the stomach may lead to the band removal.
- Internal bleeding and blood clots -There is a 1% chance of blood clots occurring in the legs after surgery.
- Infections -There is a small risk of infection in the incision area if the procedure is open and the laparoscope is not used.
- Pulmonary problems
- Heart attack
- Vomiting -The vomiting may develop when the small stomach pouch is stretched by food particles that have not been chewed well.
- Hernia - In 10-20% of the cases, abdominal hernia may occur. It can be caused by vomiting or straining after surgery, usually before the incision heals. Laparoscopy-assisted surgery greatly reduces hernia risk.
What are the risks of surgery vs. risks of obesity?
For most patients suffering from morbid obesity the big question is, do the benefits of obesity surgery outweigh the risks? The answer is yes. Severe obesity is a frequently progressive, chronic, life threatening disease. There can be no doubt that the known health risks associated with morbid obesity far outweigh the risks associated with surgery.
The importance of patient attitude
In solving their obesity and weight problems, the higher the motivation of patients to lose weight and manage the post-operative requirements of dietary modification and behavioural therapy, the more successful surgery is likely to be.
Questions
A consultation should occur between you and your surgeon before the day of surgery. You should ask your doctor to provide you with information related to benefits, risks, various surgical techniques, qualification and others.
It is recommended that you look at before and after photos, discuss with other patients and get answers from your surgeon.
More Information on Obesity Surgery
» Obesity surgery FAQ
» Obesity facts
» What is my BMI?
» Are you a candidate for obesity surgery?
» What are the different types of obesity surgery?
» Gastric banding
» Gastric balloon
» What are the risks of obesity surgery?
» How your life will change after weight loss surgery?
Find out more
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