Bariatric Surgery Side Effects - Know Risks and Complications

Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is a type of surgery that is performed on people who are obese or severely overweight. Bariatric surgery addresses the cause of excess fat by altering the digestive tract. It includes many procedures, such as gastric band, gastric sleeve, and gastric bypass. These procedures shrink the size of the stomach and change how much you can eat by limiting the number of calories you can consume.

However, these bariatric surgery procedures are accompanied by several risks, complications and side effects.

While bariatric surgery can offer many benefits, all types of weight-loss surgery are major procedures that can pose serious risks and complications.

Some bariatric surgery risks and complications include:

1. Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection after bariatric surgery. Some possible sources of infection include bacteria present on the skin, bacteria in the air or on instruments used during surgery, and bacteria that may be present in the patient's own gastrointestinal tract.
2. Bleeding: Bleeding during bariatric surgery is a rare but possible complication. It can occur due to injury to a blood vessel during the procedure, or it may be related to factors such as the patient's blood clotting ability or the use of blood-thinning medications.
3. Blood clots: There is a risk of blood clots forming in the legs or lungs after surgery.
4. Nutrient deficiencies: Some bariatric surgery procedures can interfere with the body's ability to absorb nutrients, leading to deficiencies in important vitamins and minerals.
5. Gallstones: Some people who have bariatric surgery may develop gallstones due to rapid weight loss. This may be because of sudden weight loss, malabsorption of nutrients or change in diet.
6. Hernias: There is a risk of hernias forming at the surgery site because of excessive strain on the surgical incision site during the healing process, or sudden increase in abdominal pressure.
7. Anaesthesia risks: As with any surgery requiring anaesthesia, there are risks like allergies associated with using it.
8. Death: While rare, there is a risk of death associated with bariatric surgery.

If you are looking for what are the side effects of bariatric surgery then you are at the right place. Keep reading to know more.

Here are some common bariatric bypass surgery side effects:

1. Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms are usually temporary and can be managed with medications prescribed by your doctor.
2. Constipation: This can be a side effect of the changes in your diet and how your body absorbs nutrients after surgery. Your doctor may recommend medications or other treatment options to help manage constipation.
3. Stomach cramps: Some people may experience stomach cramps or discomfort after bariatric surgery. This can be due to changes in the size and shape of the stomach or how food moves through the intestines.
4. Hair loss: It is common to experience temporary hair loss after bariatric surgery, but this usually resolves on its own within a few months.
5. Nutrient deficiencies: Bariatric surgery can affect the way your body absorbs nutrients, which can lead to deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals. Your doctor will likely recommend supplements to ensure you get the nutrients you need.
6. Leakage from the surgical site: In rare cases, there may be a leak at the surgical site, which can cause an infection. Your doctor will monitor you closely for any signs of infection after surgery.

Like any other surgery, bariatric surgery may also cause some side effects. To rectify the bariatric bypass surgery side effects-

1. It is important to follow the recommendations of your healthcare team, including taking any prescribed medications to avoid any bariatric surgery side effects. 
2. Follow a recommended diet and exercise plan.
3. It may also be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional, as the changes that occur after bariatric surgery can be significant and can affect a person's emotional well-being.

If you are considering bariatric surgery, it is important to consult a doctor to determine if it is the right option for you, as it may also have potential side effects. A doctor can help you evaluate your health and assess whether you are a good candidate for the procedure. They can also discuss bariatric surgery side effects and benefits with you and help you make an informed decision about whether it is the right choice for you.