Risks & Benefits of Bariatric Surgery
Learn about the risks and benefits of bariatric surgery to make the choice that’s right for you. Your Adventist HealthCare provider will answer your questions and listen to your concerns.
Goals of Bariatric Surgery
Reaching and staying at a healthy weight through surgery and lifestyle changes can:
- Improve your quality of life
- Increase your fitness and activity levels
- Lengthen your life
- Treat obesity-related health conditions
Read about weight-loss surgery to decide if it’s right for you.
Risks of Weight-Loss Surgery
Potential risks and side effects depend on the type of procedure. There is a small chance you may have:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Infection, blood clots or other surgical complications
- Stomach or intestine obstruction, or blockage
- Trouble eating certain foods or getting enough nutrition
- Weight gain or inability to lose weight
Alternatives to Surgery
Trust Adventist HealthCare to help you reach your health goals in a way that works best for you. Instead of surgery, your doctor may recommend:
- Lifestyle changes, such as nutrition counseling, an exercise plan and stress management
- Medical treatments, including prescription medications or a gastric balloon procedure
Noninvasive Gastric Balloon
Gastric balloon is a painless weight-loss procedure done without surgery.
Before the procedure, you may receive a sedative, a medication that can help you relax. Your doctor will use a thin, flexible tube to place a small balloon through your mouth and esophagus into your stomach. You’ll be able to go home the same day.
After the procedure, you’ll feel full faster after small meals, which can help you lose weight. Your doctor will remove the balloon in six months.
