What are the complications of bariatric surgery?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 72 years old and currently weigh around 250 pounds. My doctor has recommended metabolic (bariatric) surgery to help manage my weight and related health issues like heart block. I have a few concerns and would appreciate some guidance.

Is metabolic surgery generally considered safe for someone my age?
What are the risks and benefits at this stage of life?
Also, is there any possibility of reversing the procedure if complications arise or if I change my mind later?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

It is very impressive that you are conscious of your health. Obesity poses significant health risks. It impacts your cardiovascular health by, among other things, straining your heart, contributing to the following conditions:

Uncontrolled blood pressure.
Atherosclerotic heart disease.
Obesity hypoventilation syndrome.
Pulmonary hypertension.
Cor pulmonale.

Age is not a contraindication for any surgery, provided your general health is good. As obesity causes various health concerns, it is very important to address it. Bariatric surgeries are now very safe, and with advanced techniques, they are highly successful procedures.

If obesity is managed properly, there is a significant improvement in health. With weight loss, there will be a reduced risk of developing diabetes, blood pressure will be better controlled, blood lipid levels will be in a healthy range, there will be a lower risk of atherosclerotic heart disease and ischemia, and the chances of stroke, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death will decrease.

Risks associated with the surgery depend on the type of surgery and the patient's overall health. These risks include

Infection.
Bleeding.
Leakages.
Perioperative cardiac events.
Arrhythmias.

Long-term issues such as

Bowel obstruction.
Electrolyte imbalances.
Acidity and acid reflux.
Incisional hernia.
Hypoglycemia.

Overall, the risk-versus-benefit profile generally favors undergoing bariatric surgery if recommended by your physician after a thorough review of your overall health and fitness.

Some types of bariatric surgery are reversible, while others are not. You need to have a detailed discussion with the bariatric surgeon before undergoing the procedure.

Kindly consult a specialist doctor, talk with them, and take medications with their consent.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.