Risks of Surgery

For people interested in weight loss surgery, it is important to ask what the pros and cons of each operation are as well as learn the risks associated with the surgery.

Like any surgery, patients of weight loss or bariatric surgery face about the same risks as they would face in any type of abdominal surgery. Obese people usually have greater risks during an operation due to co-morbidity. Thus, it is important to learn the potential risks and complications of bariatric surgery.

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
• 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