Common Questions

Will weight be gained again after surgery?

Regaining weight is possible after weight loss surgery, and a small amount of gain is likely. After about 18 months to two years, a patient's body and hormones will adjust to the changes made during surgery. A patient may feel hungry again and be able to eat most foods. However, by this time a patient has also achieved an active lifestyle that incorporates frequent exercise and awareness of eating smaller amounts of nutrient-dense foods. 

Annual follow-up visits with the Weight Management team are essential for long term maintenance of weight loss. 

Are there any side effects from the surgery?

Side effects vary by patient, but all weight management patients make lifestyle changes to adjust to assist in the weight loss process. Patients typically take additional vitamins and mineral supplements to replace nutrients the body is no longer absorbing through food. Staying hydrated is also important. 

Loose folds of skin are a common occurrence after surgery. Conemaugh Health System offers cosmetic and reconstructive surgery options to remove excess skin after weight loss.