Are the benifits of bariatric surgery worth risks involved?

The decision of whether or not to undergo bariatric surgery is a complex one that requires careful consideration of the potential benefits and risks.

Benefits of bariatric surgery

Bariatric surgery can lead to significant weight loss and improvements in a number of health conditions, including:

* Type 2 diabetes

* Hypertension

* Dyslipidemia

* Heart disease

* Stroke

* Sleep apnea

* Joint pain

* Depression

* Infertility

Risks of bariatric surgery

The risks of bariatric surgery include:

* Bleeding

* Infection

* Blood clots

* Pulmonary embolism

* Heart attack

* Stroke

* Vitamin deficiencies

* Hair loss

* Skin problems

* Nausea and vomiting

* Diarrhea

* Constipation

* Leaking around the surgical site

* Need for revision surgery

It is important to note that the risks of bariatric surgery vary depending on the type of procedure performed and the patient's individual health status. For example, the risks of surgery are higher for patients who are obese, have multiple medical conditions, or are smokers.

Weighing the benefits and risks

The decision of whether or not to undergo bariatric surgery should be made in consultation with a healthcare team that includes a surgeon, a nutritionist, and a psychologist. The surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of surgery and help the patient to decide if surgery is the right choice for them.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), bariatric surgery is safe and effective for most people who are severely obese. The NIH also recommends that people who are considering bariatric surgery should first try to lose weight through diet and exercise, but that surgery is a reasonable option for people who have failed to lose weight with these methods.

Conclusion

The benefits of bariatric surgery can be significant, but the risks are also real. It is important to weigh the benefits and risks carefully before making a decision about whether or not to undergo surgery.