Complications Of Gastric Bypass Surgery

QUESTION: What are some of the complications of gastric bypass surgery?

ANSWER:

There can be many complications when undergoing gastric bypass surgery. Some are minor and some can be life altering. All of the following should be considered before making a decision:

• Nutritional deficiencies
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Dumping Syndrome
• Anorexia
• Hypoglycemia
• Permanent alteration of dietary and bowel habits
• Food intolerances: red meat, milk, or sugar
• Nauseous from overeating or eating too quickly
• Death
• Psychological changes, including possible effects from a new smaller body image affecting interaction with family and friends
• Avoid pregnancy until weight becomes stable because the rapid weight loss can harm a developing baby

The surgery can and will change the way your body processes food, and some people find that post-operation they eat in a completely different way. All of these changes can be permanent or temporary.

The surgery can and will change the way you perceive yourself. Women can struggle with anorexia after surgery because they are not mentally prepared for the way their body goes through these changes. Be educated. Get all the information you can before making this decision.

The surgery can and will change the way others perceive you. Be prepared for a lot of questions and a lot of weird looks. People will not always understand. Be educated so that you might educate them.

Believe it or not, gastric bypass surgery ends a lot of marriages. Doctor’s believe that it is because the women or men have such an altered view of their own body that they can not bear to be with someone who was with them when they were obese. It is yet another reason to prepare yourself mentally for the resulting changes. Spend time discussing this option with your spouse beforehand and keep communications open before and after surgery. Work on keeping your marriage together.