As with any surgical procedure, it is very important to consider all aspects of the surgery prior to moving forward, including the specific procedure’s known complications.  If you are considering weight loss surgery, you have probably already done your research and know that bariatric surgery does have known risks.

You also probably know that having your surgery performed by an experienced surgeon greatly reduces the risk of a complication happening to you. 

Unfortunately, even with the best surgeons, complications do happen, so it is important to be prepared if it happens to you by having your surgery performed by a BLIS Surgeon. 

Some patients may have a higher risk of complications due to their pre-existing health conditions, such as sleep apnea, diabetes, hypertension, etc.  It is important to discuss your current health with your surgeon prior to moving forward, so that you and your surgeon can determine the best surgical option for you. 

Some known weight loss surgery related complications include:

•         Wound infection
•         Bleeding
•         Bowel obstruction
•         Stoma obstruction
•         Pneumonia
•         Stenosis
•         Gall stones
•         Blood clots
•         Nutritional deficiencies
•         Death

Most surgical practices are willing to share information about the practices complication percentages, so don’t be afraid to discuss this topic.  Beyond being knowledgeable about the complications that can occur, it is important to be knowledgeable about your financial responsibility should a surgical complication happen to you. 

If your insurance company is paying for your surgery, be sure to check your coverage to ensure that complications are also covered.  Does your plan have a maximum lifetime benefit and if yes, will the cost of surgery deplete the maximum limit?  If so, keep in mind that you will be financially responsible for all complication related extra expenses.