Obesity is a complex, chronic disease which can lead to many long-term conditions. The benefits of bariatric surgery extend beyond weight loss and can improve and resolve many of these conditions, such as: 

• Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes 

• High blood pressure 

• High cholesterol 

• Sleep apnea 

• Heart disease  

• Cancer risk reduction 

• Arthritis 

• And more 

Both gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy procedures follow the same recovery plan: 

Gallstones: Gallstones may develop during the first six months of rapid weight loss. Patients who still have a gallbladder will be prescribed Ursodiol® to decrease the chance of gallstone creation and gallbladder attacks. 

Risk for vitamin and mineral deficiency: After surgery you will not absorb nutrients like you did before surgery. This puts you at risk for vitamin and mineral deficiencies. You will be required to eat healthy meals and snacks and take vitamin and mineral supplements each day for the rest of your life. 

Pregnancy after bariatric surgery: Patients should avoid becoming pregnant for 12-18 months after undergoing bariatric surgery to maximize weight loss and stabilize overall weight, and focus on vitamin and mineral needs. 

Excess/loose skin: Weight loss may result in excessive skin that can cause rashes and infections. Plastic surgery can be performed to remove excess skin, however, patients should check with their insurance carriers to determine if this is a covered benefit. 

Weight Regain: Studies have shown that it is normal for most people to regain a small amount of weight (5-10%) before stabilizing. Regular follow-up in our long-term clinic gives patients continued support to maintain weight loss.