There are always risks with surgery and weight loss surgery is no exception. Your surgeon will review all the complications of weight loss surgery in detail with you before your operation.
Some of the problems that can occur as a result of weight loss surgery include but are not limited to:
Gastric Bypass (open and laparoscopic)
Vitamin deficiency
<1%
Blood clots in the veins
1-2%
Blood clots in the lungs
0.5%
Leaking between the connections of the stomach and small intestine
1-3%
Blocked stomach outlet
5-15%
Blockage of the small intestine
1-3%
Bleeding
1-5%
Damage to nearby organs during the operation
<5%
Infection
1-20%
Hernia
1-15%
Death (within 30 days)
1%
Lap-Band
Damage to nearby organs during the operation
0.5%
Need for another operation
10-20%
Slipping of the band
2-3%
Band eroding into the stomach
1%
Problem with the port
1%
Death
<0.1%
Reduce Your Risks
The dedicated staff at Baystate Medical Center will do everything they can to reduce your surgical risk, but there are many things you can do on your own to reduce your risks as well.
Quit smoking (this will be required before your operation can take place)
Exercise. The stronger the heart and lungs, the better your body will tolerate surgery.
Start practicing the eating habits that will be necessary after surgery like chewing well, eating slowly, drinking plenty of fluids, counting calories, reading labels, and preparing weekly menus.
Move around. Get up and walk as soon as possible after surgery. The more you walk the better! Walking reduces the risk of blood clots and improves lung function.
