Bariatric Revision Surgery Complications

Bariatric surgery is a drastic measure that some people choose to take in order to encourage weight loss. Many patients do succeed in losing weight following this procedure, but anyone who is considering this surgery must understand the possible complications.

Short-term side effects

In the short term, patients often feel like there is pressure on the chest, and this can lead to a greater risk of pneumonia. Blood clots in the legs are also common, and they can prove deadly if they travel to the lungs, brain or heart. Infections in the incision are a concern, as is the case with any surgery. Another fairly common complication is leak in one of the stomach staples. Thankfully, most leaks require only antibiotics and careful attention in order to heal.

Long-term complications

Many different complications can arise in the long term. One of the most common is a deficiency of calcium and iron. Doctors can sometimes address this by prescribing supplements, but injections may prove necessary. Kidney stones may result from the changes in calcium absorption, and bone diseases may develop for the same reasons. Hernias in the incision are also common and require surgical repair, as do any ruptures of the internal sutures.

Mild side effects

Not all negative effects of this surgery are life threatening. Patients also suffer from some simple side effects that are more likely due to metabolism changes than the surgery itself. Body aches, dry skin, thinning hair and changes in mood are the most common.

Whenever any surgery is performed, there is a risk of complications. The complications of bariatric surgery can prove severe, so patients need must verify that this is the only way they can lose weight before proceeding.

Kidney stones may result from the changes in calcium absorption

by Jessica Miller, Medical writer