Side Effects of Bariatric Surgery and How to Manage Them

Written by: Laura Arantegui / Date: 20-03-24 / 5 Min Read

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Bariatric surgery is an effective procedure to treat obesity and associated pathologies (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, etc.). While it offers significant benefits in terms of weight loss and improved health, it can also trigger some side effects.

In this blog post, we'll explore some of the common side effects of bariatric surgery and provide tips on how to manage them and ensure your journey to a healthier life is as successful as possible.

Table of Contents

1. Side Effects
2. Frequently Asked Questions

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Side effects of Bariatric Surgery

Hair loss: Hair loss is a temporary side effect that some people experience after bariatric surgery. This hair loss can be caused by rapid weight loss, hormonal changes, stress, and nutritional deficiencies. Visit our blog post where we address this topic.
Rapid gastric emptying syndrome: Rapid gastric emptying syndrome, also known as dumping syndrome, can occur after bariatric surgery. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and sweating. If you want to know more about this topic, we invite you to read this blog post.
Nutritional deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies are common after bariatric surgery due to limitation in food intake and reduced absorption. Some tips for addressing them include:

- Take vitamin and mineral supplements as recommended by your medical team.
- Maintain regular follow-up with a dietitian-nutritionist who specializes in bariatric surgery.
- Follow a diet adapted to your new situation

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Changes in digestive habits: After bariatric surgery, you may experience changes in your digestive habits, which trigger diarrhea, constipation, gastroesophageal reflux, flatulence, or intolerance to certain foods. To cope with these changes:

- Talk to your medical team about any digestive issues for guidance.
- Adjust your diet to include well-tolerated foods.
- Maintain adequate hydration.

If you want to know more about how to address constipation you can head to this post.
Emotional and psychological changes: Bariatric surgery can trigger emotional and psychological changes. You may experience anxiety, depression, or difficulties with body image. To cope with these changes:

- Seek emotional support through bariatric therapy or support groups.
- Talk openly with friends and family about your feelings.
- Maintain realistic expectations and understand that surgery is a tool, not a magic bullet.
Changes in body image: Experiencing significant changes in body shape and size can trigger changes in body image perception. To help you with these changes:
- Practice acceptance and self-care.
- Celebrate health accomplishments and don't focus solely on appearance.
- Consider talking to a therapist who specializes in body image and self-esteem.

In short, bariatric surgery May Have Side Effects, but with proper management and support from your medical team, you can address these issues effectively and enjoy a healthier life. It's important to maintain open communication with your medical team and follow recommendations to ensure your weight loss journey is as successful and comfortable as possible.

Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool for improving health, and with time, adaptation, and proper care, the benefits will far outweigh the side effects.

Bibliographic references

1. Kassir R, Debs T, Blanc P, Gugenheim J, Ben Amor I, Boutet C, Tiffet O. Complications of bariatric surgery: Presentation and emergency management. Int J Surg. 2016 Mar;27:77-81. doi: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2016.01.067. Epub 2016 Jan 22. PMID: 26808323.

2. Schulman AR, Thompson CC. Complications of Bariatric Surgery: What You Can Expect to See in Your GI Practice. Am J Gastroenterol. 2017 Nov;112(11):1640-1655. doi: 10.1038/ajg.2017.241. Epub 2017 Aug 15. PMID: 28809386.