Risks & Complications

What You Need to Know Before Surgery:

Risks and Complications of Bariatric Surgery

      As with all surgeries, there are risks associated with this weight loss procedure. If complications occur during the operation, your doctor may choose to perform open surgery. Your doctor must determine if you are an appropriate surgical candidate.

As with any surgery, there are operative and long-term complications and risks associated with weight loss surgical procedures that should be discussed with your doctor. Possible risks include, but are not limited to:

- Bleeding*
- Complications due to anesthesia and medications
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Dehiscence
- Infections
- Leaks from staple line breakdown
- Marginal ulcers
- Pulmonary problems
- Spleen injury*
- Stenosis

*Removal of the spleen is necessary in about 0.3% of patients to control operative bleeding.

Related Links

Surgical Weight Loss
Restrictive & Malabsorptive
Different Procedures
Paying For Surgery
Surgery & Success
What to Expect
Post-Surgery Diet
Follow-Up
Definitions