Are weight loss surgery risks worth it?

Obesity is a global problem with guaranteed health risks attached to it. By losing your excess fat you can help resolve and prevent all kinds of chronic diseases from affecting the quality and length of your life.

So it’s no wonder more and more people are justifying the weight loss surgery risks, regardless of the procedure's ($25,000 an up) cost.

In fact the number of procedures performed has increased 10-fold over the last decade, with no signs of slowing up. For one simple reason, it has a high success rate.

Although surgery has risks attached to it and problems can't always be prevented; you and your doctor need to weigh the potential complications and risks, to the risks of your not having the procedure at all.

This “reality check” talk with your doctor is the last step before surgery. Make sure your doctor has explained your individual situation clearly and you understand all the facts. Only after you and you doctor have weighed all your weight loss surgery risks, against your weight loss surgery benefits, do you make a decision.

If you do your homework, you’ll find an excellent surgeon who will take every possible measure to prevent complications.

But just for the record, here’s some of the weight loss surgery risks you should know about: Bleeding (a tear to the liver, spleen, or blood vessels) - Bowel obstruction (will require further surgery) - Cardiac problems (especially to patients who have cardiac disease already) - Complications from anesthesia and medications - Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the large leg veins) - Rupture of a wound - Gastrointestinal dysfunction (long-term nausea or food intolerance) – Hernia (requires another operation to fix) - Infections of the wounds - A break in the staple line between the stomach pouch and small intestine - Marginal ulcers in the pouch - Pulmonary problems- Narrowing of the connection between stomach pouch and intestine (may require another operation to fix) – Temporary hair loss or thinning -

Your weight loss surgery will lead to many physical, mental, and lifestyle challenges. However, you can take action now to help reduce your risks.

1. Stop smoking. If you don’t, good on you!

2. Start practicing immediately (don’t wait for the surgery) the healthy eating habits that will be part of your new lifestyle after your surgery (like reading labels, watching portions, meal programs, counting calories, these are all key factors that will contribute to your success.

3. Start an exercise program. A running program works for me but you might need to start with a walking program. Just start something. Build a stronger heart and lungs to help your body deal with the surgery.

4. Start attending support group meetings. Talk to others and learn.

5. Start thinking positive thoughts and imagining your body minus the excess weight. Positive thoughts lead to positive results.

So there you have it, on average the weight loss surgery risks are low, and the surgery is effective. Just do your research and follow your doctor’s advice and I’m sure you’ll safely reach your weight loss goals.

Smiles…Gigi

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