1. Complications of Surgery
There are possible complications that can occur with gastric bypass surgery, including death. Gastric bypass surgery involves making the stomach smaller and removing part of the intestine. This means the patient is not able to eat as much at one time, the stomach will empty more slowly and the intestines do not absorb as much food. As with any surgery, there is a risk of complications during surgery that cause death. Gastric bypass may also cause intestinal leakage, nutrient deficiencies and dumping syndrome.
2. Some Surgeons are Doing it for Money
Gastric bypass surgery is an expensive procedure, and many people opt to pay for it out of pocket when their insurance does not cover the procedure. In some hospitals, surgeons will provide the surgery and discharge the patient without adequate screening or education prior to surgery. This can bring a lot of money in to the surgeon and the hospital; however, it can leave the patient without a complete understanding of what is required to stay healthy. Good gastric bypass surgeons will have a multidisciplinary team including a psychotherapist, registered dietitian, exercise specialist and nurse who is involved in screening and education both before and after the surgery.
3. You Still Have to Eat Healthy
One of the dangers of gastric bypass surgery is the false expectation that patients will lose weight without having to diet or exercise. Unfortunately, this is not true, even for gastric bypass. It is possible to lose weight and then gain it back if the patient does not adopt a new eating and physical activity pattern.
4. Gastric Bypass can Result in Nutrient Deficiencies
Gastric bypass surgery alters your gastrointestinal tract. The most common nutrient deficiencies after the surgery are vitamin B-12, iron and calcium. This puts the person at increased risk for anemia, bone loss and neurological problems. Patients need to take a multivitamin in addition to eating a healthy diet.
5. Illness After Surgery is Harder to Treat
One of the less understood dangers of gastric bypass surgery is how it will affect the patient several years down the road if they have another illness or surgery. This can be a problem if someone develops an infection that they have to be hospitalized for, such as pneumonia. It is also risky if you develop heart disease or cancer and need to have treatments or surgeries. Without a fully functioning gastrointestinal tract, the patient has a higher risk of malnutrition and slower recovery. These are important things to keep in mind when evaluating the dangers of gastric bypass surgery versus another weight loss program.
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