What to Expect

Risks and Benefits

All surgical procedures carry a certain degree of risk. Keep in mind that the risks must always be compared to the benefits obtained from weight loss and the improvement in health problems related to obesity.

Benefits

The benefits of Bariatric Surgery are impressive. The difference between this and simple diet and exercise is that Bariatric Surgery has long term success. Patients are able to lose the weight but more importantly keep it off. Because of this, we see dramatic improvement in related health conditions.

Co-Morbidity	Resolved/ Cured	Improved
Hypertension	92%	100%
High Cholesterol	70%	85%
Diabetes	95%	100%
Osteoarthritis	90%	100%
Sleep Apnea Syndrome	98%	100%
Urinary Stress Incontinence	97%	100%
Gastroesophageal Reflux	98%	100%

In addition, many other conditions such as arthritis, skin infections, asthma, infertility and lymphedema can be improved.
There is an improvement in the ability to participate in physical and recreational activities.
The majority of patients notice improved social and economic opportunities.
Patients who may have suffered from depression or anxiety notice an improved sense of well being.

Risks

The overall risks of Bariatric surgery are low and most patients experience few, if any, complications. However, depending on your BMI, age, medical history and which operation you choose, complications may arise which can be serious and even fatal. It is important to discuss all these factors with your surgeon before you come to a decision if weight loss surgery is right for you. To minimize your risk, always look for a surgeon with a considerable amount of experience and remember that routine follow up with your surgeon is essential to diagnosing and treating complications in a timely fashion. In addition, Dr. Vaimakis believes that patients should notify her immediately if a problem such as fever, abdominal pain or nausea and vomiting occur.

In general the risks associated with Bariatric Surgery depend on the operation you choose. Possible risks can include, but are not limited to:

Gastric Bypass Risks

Complications

Vitamin and Supplement Deficiencies
Dumping Syndrome
Blood Clot
Bleeding
Leak
Stricture
Intestinal Blockage
Ulcer
Death

Please speak with your surgeon to further discuss these risks and how they may affect you.

Side Effects

Dumping Syndrome

This occurs when food high in sugar or carbohydrates moves too quickly into the small intestine. It can cause nausea, sweating, palpitations, diarrhea and weakness. The good news is most patients avoid these foods at all cost!

Vitamin and Supplement Deficiencies

Since a portion of the small intestine is bypassed this is also the area where certain vitamins and supplements are absorbed such as calcium, vitamin B12 and iron. These supplements need to be taken for the rest of the patient's life in order to assure adequate amounts. Levels will be routinely checked in the office to ensure compliance. Failure to maintain adequate levels can have serious consequences including but not limited to neurologic impairment.

Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAP-BAND)

Complications

Slippage
Erosion
Stoma Obstruction
Gastric Pouch Dilatation
Access Port Problems
Band Removal Due to:
Complications, Intolerance
or Inadequate Weight Loss
Infection

Please speak with your surgeon to further discuss these risks and how they may affect you.

Gastric Bypass and Gastric Banding

Hair Thinning

Hair loss can be very alarming but keep in mind it is only temporary and will not lead to baldness. The mechanism is not well understood but relates to hormonal changes as well as protein intake and adequate vitamin and supplement levels. Along with ensuring enough protein in your diet, there are several additional over the counter vitamins and supplements that can be helpful in reversing the process.

Nausea and Vomiting

Most patients at one point or another will experience nausea or vomiting as they relearn the eating process. There are several helpful tips you must remember in order to avoid this. You must ensure that you are chewing your food enough. It should take you ½ hour to eat your food. You must not be drinking liquids at the same time as you are eating. Some foods may not agree with you and you may feel as though they are "stuck." With time and practice, this can be avoided.