Question:
What are the long-long term affects of this surgery?

I have been reading some websites that indicate the long-term health risks are basically unknown. I have read reports of higher suseptibility to cancer, autoimmune disorders like lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rhumatoid(sp.)arthritis. Longevity is also a major concern. Most doctors avoid the question about how much longer I would live if I had the surgery as opposed to living out my life as morbidly obese. I am particularly concerned because I am 23 now and I don't want to do something to my body that could result in a debilitating disease. I know the risks of obesity over a long time are similar in terms of risks, but I don't know if I want to exchange one set of complications for another. Please help me. If anyone knows anything concrete about the subject I would appreciate some website addresses on the subject or any personal info that you can offer to guide me. Thank you all so much. BTW I love this site. Thanks to all for your continued contributions. Without your advice and personal stories of triumph I would be lost. Best wishes to all:-)    — S B. (posted on March 9, 2001)

March 9, 2001
I can understand your concern about the long-term effects of the surgery. I think everyone thinks about this or should. My own justification went like this: I'm 45. Lost 100 lbs. twice already, and gained all back, plus. How many more times at my age am I willing to put my body through the yo-yo? So am I willing to stay obese and stop trying to diet? I'm healthy for now, but heart disease, diabetes and high-blood pressure run in my family. If I'm to have the surgery, I want to do it while I'm still healthy - not after one of my co-morbidities manifests itself. Sooo... I began the process by researching, reading, asking questions, etc. just like you are. I made drs appointments and would have backed off and gone to another if I hadn't liked him and felt comfortable about his capabilities. When my teenaged son asked me, "What about when you're 70 or 80. How's this going to affect you?" I said, "How many 300 pound 80 year-olds have you seen?" I'm 2 mos. post-op and the poster child for success - so far. But this was a very personal decision and one only you can make after weighing all your own personal options, fears, hopes, etc. Good luck.
   — Lili R.

March 9, 2001
Just like the previous answer, this is a very personal decision that requires extensive research on your behalf that would make you comfortable if you want to decide, here is a web site I also found informative to me is by Alvarado Center for Obesity Surger. http://www.Gastric Bypass--For Doctors.com. Also pray and ask God to direct you.
   — Maria A.

March 9, 2001
I am curious. Where did you read about a higher susceptibility to cancer and autoimmune diseases? I do not know how WLS could cause these problems. I have simply been replumbed. If I maintain a healthy diet, get in all my supplements and continue with my yearly check-ups and periodic blood work etc; I have just as much of a chance to grow old as the next person. I do know I am healthier now at 127lbs than I was at 235lbs and I have the blood work to show for it. Best of luck with your research and decision.
   — Jilda H.