If you are thinking about bariatric surgery and are having doubts about whether it is right for you, you’re not alone. Wondering if bariatric surgery is right for you is a very common concern. Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure, and making that decision requires research, a good amount of reflection and discussion with your doctor.  However, you also should take a look at the science and know that surgery can be an effective treatment for the lifelong condition of morbid obesity. As with any surgery, bariatric surgery may present risks. It’s important to learn about these risks and discuss them with your bariatric surgeon.  

If traditional weight loss methods have not worked, surgery may be the right answer for you. And with its effectiveness in resolving or improving co-morbidities such as type 2 diabetes, it may improve your quality of life.   In this section, you’ll learn about concerns and fears that most everyone has had at one point or another during the bariatric surgery decision-making process.   

Coping with Fear of Surgery and Physical Change  
Gastric bypass surgery reshapes your stomach and changes the digestive process of your body for life. It is major surgery, performed while the patient is under general anesthesia.   For many people, the idea of “rebuilding” their stomach sounds good—a small stomach that can help you control how much you eat sounds like a great tool.   For other people, the idea of surgery and anesthesia can provoke anxiety. The potential for complications also can be a little frightening.   This is perfectly normal. Before letting these fears prevent you from having this surgery, you may want to examine them.

Fear of Surgery
The fear of surgery is not irrational or abnormal; in fact, it’s very common. Bariatric surgery alters the stomach—all while the patient is under general anesthesia.   If the idea of surgery or anesthesia scares you, counter the fear by finding out more.  

Fear of Complications
Fear of short- or long-term complications is valid. As with any surgery, complications may occur.   If you are concerned about short- or long-term complications, you can talk about them with your surgeon. Every surgery has risks, and your surgeon should discuss the benefits and risks of bariatric surgery with you.

The best way to combat this fear is to learn more and talk to people who have undergone these procedures.