Thinking about weight loss surgery?
Learn who qualifies, types of bariatric procedures, safety, recovery, risks, and long-term results to make an informed decision.
Published June 26, 2026
Contributed by: Sergio Bardaro, MD / Director of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery
Thinking About Weight Loss Surgery? Here’s What to Know
Losing weight can be hard. Health problems, life changes, or past struggles can make it even harder to see results that last. For some people, weight loss surgery may be a helpful option to improve both weight and overall health.
During the Understanding Bariatric Surgery: A Path to Lasting Weight Loss talk presented by Sergio Bardaro, MD, Director of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery, many people asked questions about safety, who can get surgery, recovery, and long‑term results. Here’s what you should know if you are thinking about weight loss surgery.
When Is Weight Loss Surgery an Option?
Weight loss surgery is usually considered when other methods, like diet, exercise, or medicine, have not worked long term.
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have a BMI of 35 or higher
- Have a BMI of 30or higher and health problems like diabetes or heart disease
- Have trouble moving or other health problems linked to weight
What this means for you:
Surgery is only one part of care. Your care team will look at your health and goals to help decide the safest and best plan for you.
Is There an Age Limit?
Many people wonder if they are too young or too old for surgery.
There is no set age limit. Instead, your provider looks at your overall health, medical history, and how well you may recover.
What this means for you:
Older adults may still qualify for surgery with a care plan made to support safe healing and long‑term success.
Risks and Side Effects
First of all, bariatric surgery is a very safe procedure. A bariatric operation is as safe as removing the gallbladder or the appendix or repairing a groin hernia. All surgeries have some risks, but the chances of complications are low and the benefits, are extremely important. After weight loss surgery, some people may notice:
- Minor changes in digestion or bowel habits.
- Lactose intolerance (may get gassy or occasional diarrhea with milk or diary products, but not everybody get this issue.
- Some hair thinning during the first few months, but usually the patients have full hair recovery after the weight stabilizes.
- May get low levels of vitamins and nutrients, but this completely avoidable if you take your daily multivitamins and have a diversified diet.
What this means for you:
These side effects are not that common and often can be avoided if you do the right things or in the case they happen, they improve over time. We recommend regular checkups and support from our team to help lower risks and support recovery.
Why Are Vitamins Important?
After surgery, your body may not receive nutrients the same way. Because of this, vitamins and supplements are often needed for life.
Without them, people may experience:
- Low vitamin levels
- Anemia
- Weak bones over time
What this means for you:
Taking vitamins as directed and going to follow‑up visits helps protect your from having these issues and hep for your long‑term health.
Types of Weight Loss Surgery
Three common types of weight loss surgery are:
- Sleeve gastrectomy, which makes the stomach smaller (the size of a small banana).
- Gastric bypass, with a newly created small stomach which changes how food moves through the body.
- SADI or single anastomosis duodeno-ileostomy, which is reserved for patients with very high weight or BMI (more than 50), that is extremely effective to resolve many severe medical problems.
What this means for you:
Your care team will help you choose the option that best matches your health needs and goals. We always think about your safety and well-being and every recommendation if for you to obtain the best results in the safest way.
What Is Recovery Like?
Recovery is different for everyone, but most people:
- Usually, you will stay only the night of surgery at the hospital. The next day usually you go home.
- You would be walking as fast as 2 hours after surgery and would start drinking 4 hours after surgery.
- Return to daily activities within a few weeks.
- Slowly become more active over time.
- Follow a guided eating plan.
What this means for you:
You will receive clear instructions before and after surgery, so you know what to expect, no matter your job or daily schedule.
What Happens After Surgery?
Many people wonder what life will be like after surgery.
After surgery:
- Portion sizes and eating habits change for your benefit.
- Weight loss happens over time, not right away.
- Ongoing support helps keep results strong.
Some people may gain weight back without continued care, but if you follow up with us, we will continue supporting and motivating you to reach your goals regarding your health.
What this means for you:
Long‑term success comes from surgery, healthy habits, and regular follow‑up care.
Are There Options Without Surgery?
Surgery when possible is the best and stronger choice as it has the best results. However, for some patients, surgery may not be the right choice.
Other options may include:
- Nutrition counseling
- Physical activity plans
- Weight loss medications
What this means for you:
Your provider can help you learn about all choices and decide what fits your needs.
Taking the First Step
Having weight problems was not your choice! If you feel stuck or unsure where to start, you are not alone. Many people face similar struggles, especially with long‑term health conditions.
The first step is talking with a provider and if you wish, in bariatric surgery we are here to help you.
A MetroHealth providers can:
- Review your health history
- Talk about your goals
- Help you understand your options
However, if your BMI is more than 30 and you have multiple medical problems, do not wait until they get worse. Bariatric surgery may be a solution, or even most likely, the best solution for you. We are here to help you and to guide you. Your success in getting back your life is our priority and we are here to help all the step of the way.
The Bottom Line
Weight loss surgery is not a quick fix, but it can the most helpful tool for better health. It is very effective and safe.
With the right care, education, and follow‑up, most people improve their health, build healthier habits, and feel more in control of their lives.
At MetroHealth, we work with you to set goals, choose treatment options and live a healthier life. You’re unique, and you deserve treatment that truly fits your needs.
Ready to Get Started?
Call 216-778-7433 or visit metrohealth.org/weight-management/.
Your Questions Answered
Q. Who is a good candidate for weight loss surgery?
A. You may qualify if you have a BMI of 35 or higher, or a BMI of 30+ with health conditions like diabetes or heart disease. A medical team will evaluate your overall health and goals to determine if surgery is right for you.
Q. How safe is bariatric surgery?
A. Bariatric surgery is considered very safe and comparable to common procedures like gallbladder removal. While all surgeries carry some risk, complications are uncommon, and most side effects are manageable with proper care and follow-up.
Q. What is recovery like after weight loss surgery?
A. Most patients go home the day after surgery, start walking within hours, and return to daily activities within a few weeks. Recovery includes a guided diet plan, gradual activity increase, and ongoing support for long-term success.
