Side Effects Of Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery offers the best solution for most obese people looking to lose excess weight and enjoy an improved quality of life. There are a variety of weight loss surgeries all of which bring proven results and benefits to the table. Weight loss surgeries work by restricting the capacity of the stomach and/or limiting the calorie absorption ability. The procedures can have some side-effects that every patient needs to go over with their weight loss surgeon before deciding to proceed. Although uncommon, let’s look at the side-effects of weight loss surgery. Let’s dig in.

Dehydration

Dehydration is a serious problem resulting from a failure to consume adequate amounts of fluids. Common symptoms include nausea and vomiting, and the remedy usually involves the taking of IV fluids and vitamins. If this happens, it is usually a problem in the first few days after surgery.

Dumping syndrome

Dumping syndrome is seen in around 15% of gastric bypass patients and happens usually when patients make the wrong food choices. Some of the common symptoms of dumping syndrome include weakness, nausea, dizziness, heart palpitation, and fatigue.

Dyspepsia

Dyspepsia , also called indigestion, occurs in patients that fail to stick to healthy foods that have been approved by the doctor. Typical symptoms will include a burning sensation or discomfort in the upper abdomen. Relief from indigestion can be attained by avoiding alcohol, greasy foods, and certain drugs including aspirin. You may also want to limit the consumption of liquids at certain times of the day.

Dental Issues

Dental issues arise when bariatric surgery patients fail to cater to the body’s requirement for additional vitamins and minerals. They can also be the result of taking food bites that are too big, consuming the food too quickly, and not chewing adequately, leading to vomiting and, consequently, dental issues. Common symptoms include unhealthy teeth and sore gums. This is rare but happens if patients don’t follow their prescribed vitamin regimen.

Dysphagia

Dysphagia, which means difficulty swallowing, usually affects patients that eat the wrong selection of food or chew insufficiently before swallowing. The side-effect can be avoided by making the right selection of food and chewing food sufficiently before swallowing.

Intolerances

Food choices usually have to be adjusted after undergoing weight loss surgery. The same goes for some medications that you may have to avoid to keep ulcers away. Foods that you loved before surgery may not be good for you after surgery, which is why patients must realign their choices.

Hair Loss

Temporary hair loss may occur post surgery when patients fail to adopt a healthy diet and take the required vitamins and supplements. All this can be avoided by adhering to a diet plan laid down by the surgeon or nutritionist.

Kidney and Gallstones

Kidney stones are the result of a failure to consume adequate amounts of fluids post surgery. Rapid weight loss post surgery can lead to gallstones, which can be effectively managed through a number of approaches, the most serious of which is surgical removal.

Liquid Consumption

Consumption of liquids before, during, and after meals post surgery is a definite ‘no’. Doctors advise against taking any beverages 30 minutes before and after meals. It also helps to take water and stay away from soda and other high calorie beverages.

Alcohol Consumption

Consumption of alcohol post surgery should be avoided at all costs. This is because the beverage is a sugar that can lead to dumping syndrome.

Talk to a Leading Weight Loss Surgeon

There are a number of considerations that come into play when looking to undergo weight loss surgery. DFW Bariatrics’ team of seasoned weight loss surgeons is always available to discuss your weight loss goals and help you explore available options. To talk to one of our weight loss doctors, call 469-620-0222 or email [email protected].