Limitations of weight loss surgery

There is no perfect operation for weight loss surgery. Each type of procedure has its own advantages and disadvantages which may be a factor in deciding which operation is more suitable. Weight loss almost always happens but patients are sometimes disappointed if they fail to lose as much weight as they had hoped. For this reason it is important to have realistic expectations.

Technical failures can occur. One type of failure is "bursting the staples" which is seen less frequently these days. Band slippages and pouch enlargement can cause weight gain in patients with bands. Occasionally patients will not lose weight independent of what operation has been performed. Often these patients are not following dietary recommendations.

In patients with technical failures revisional surgery is generally more complicated and difficult, the risks are therefore higher.

Finally surgery only offers the patient the opportunity to lose significant weight. It is the patient, their dietary and lifestyle changes (increased exercise is critical for a good outcome) and their social supports which will in most instances determine the success or failure of this type of surgery.