BAPTIST HEALTH has been designated a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence by the American Society for Bariatric Surgery.

What Are the Benefits and Risks of Bariatric Surgery?

Individuals who undergo weight-loss surgery can lose 60% to 70% of their excess weight within the first 12 to 24 months. As long as patients follow the food and exercise guidelines, they keep off at least 50% of the weight they lost 10 years after surgery.

After surgery, blood sugar levels improve in up to 47% of those with type 2 diabetes. More than 50% of people with high blood pressure also have fewer symptoms.

	Average weight loss with the Gastric Bypass is approximately 70% of the excess weight.

Other benefits include:

•   improved self-esteem and body image
  
•   increased activity level
  
•   reduced depression and anxiety.

But some people may experience uncomfortable side effects and potentially life-threatening complications, including:

•   nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  
•   nutritional deficiencies
  
•   GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease
  
•   gallstones
  
•   bleeding stomach ulcers
  
•   intestinal obstructions.

Surgical weight loss isn't for everyone. The treatment is most risky for men who are extremely obese and for patients older than age 55. Talk to your doctor if you think you may need surgery to lose weight. Together, you can decide if it's the right solution.