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Weighing Your Risks
The decision to have bariatric surgery requires careful consideration of the surgical risks compared to the ongoing risks of living with obesity.
Bariatric surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries with it a variety of risks and complications. These risks should be weighed against those of a lifestyle dominated by obesity.
Health Risks of Obesity
Obesity, especially morbid obesity, carries an assortment of health risks that can include life-threatening conditions. Those considered morbidly obese face an increased risk of death, shorter life expectancy, greater medical costs, and a significantly decreased quality of life due to limitations that restrict almost any activity. The following is a list of medical risks associated with morbid obesity:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Osteoarthritis (a degeneration of cartilage and its underlying bone within a joint)
- Dyslipidemia (for example, high total cholesterol or high levels of triglycerides)
- Type 2 diabetes
- Coronary heart disease
- Stroke
- Gallbladder disease
- Sleep apnea and respiratory problems
- Some cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon)
Risks Associated with Bariatric Surgery
Although it can dramatically alter your body's appearance, bariatric surgery is not a cosmetic procedure. Bariatric surgery is considered major surgery; and with any surgical procedure there are risks. In addition to the traditional risks associated with abdominal surgery, patients undergoing bariatric surgery may have greater risks due primarily to pre-existing conditions, such as sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and heart disease. The risks associated with general surgery and those known to result from bariatric surgery are detailed below:
Potential Abdominal Surgery Risks
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Pneumonia
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Infection/abscess
- Hemorrhage
- Bowel obstruction
- Urinary tract infection
- Pulmonary embolism
- Stroke
- Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
- Death
Potential Bariatric Surgery Risks
- Abdominal hernia
- Chest pain
- Collapsed lung
- Dehydration
- Gastrointestinal swelling
- Stretching of the stomach
- Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea
- Ulcers
- Leakage
- Inflammation of the stomach and/or esophagus
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Food intolerance (meat, sugar, diary products)
There are additional risks related to undergoing any surgical procedure. After surgery, a number of complications may develop in addition to those listed above. Before deciding to have a bariatric surgery procedure, you should consult with your physician and surgeon to ensure you are completely informed of these risks.
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