All surgical procedures carry risks. Your surgeon will explain all potential bariatric surgery complications, both short and long term, and answer any questions.
What Are the Most Common Post-Op Risks and Side Effects Associated with Bariatric Surgery?
Some bariatric surgery risks include:
- Acid reflux
- Anesthesia-related risks
- Chronic nausea and vomiting
- Dilation of esophagus
- Inability to eat certain foods
- Infection
- Obstruction of stomach
- Weight gain or failure to lose weight
Bariatric Surgery Long-Term Risks
Bariatric surgery carries some long-term risks for patients, including:
- Dumping syndrome, a condition that can lead to symptoms like nausea and dizziness
- Low blood sugar
- Malnutrition
- Vomiting
- Ulcers
- Bowel obstruction
- Hernias
Overview of Bariatric Surgery Risks and Complications by Procedure
Risks and side effects vary by bariatric procedure. The following list is not all-inclusive, but briefly outlines risks of gastric bypass and gastric sleeve.
Your bariatric surgeon will make sure you understand the risks and complications of your specific procedure.
Risks of Gastric Bypass:
- Breakage
- Dumping syndrome
- Gallstones (risk increases with rapid or
substantial weight loss)
- Hernia
- Internal bleeding or profuse bleeding of the
surgical wound
- Leakage
- Perforation of stomach or intestines
- Pouch/anastomotic obstruction or bowel obstruction
- Protein or calorie malnutrition
- Pulmonary and/or cardiac problems
- Skin separation
- Spleen or other organ injury
- Stomach or intestine ulceration
- Stricture
- Vitamin or iron deficiency
Risks of Gastric Sleeve:
- Blood clots
- Gallstones (risk increases with rapid or
substantial weight loss)
- Hernia
- Internal bleeding or profuse bleeding of the
surgical wound
- Leakage
- Perforation of stomach or intestines
- Skin separation
- Stricture
- Vitamin or iron deficiency
Reducing Your Bariatric Surgery Risks
You can help lower some of the risks and possible side effects by:
Our Presurgical Lifestyle Program can help you prepare for bariatric surgery.
