The number of people undergoing weight loss surgery has increased ten-fold in less than a decade. As obesity rates continue to rise, more and more patients are opting for surgery as a quick and easy fix to help them lose weight. Indeed it is now estimated that nearly a million obese Britons may be eligible for weight-reduction surgery.
Gastric band surgery is a popular form of weight loss surgery and over 10,000 gastric bands are fitted every year in the UK. During this procedure the capacity of the stomach is reduced using an adjustable band so that only small meals can be eaten. Over 4,000 gastric bypass operations are also performed every year. This procedure works by making the stomach smaller and the digestive system shorter.
Weight loss surgery carries risks and can lead to complications such as post-operative infection, leakage and gastric bands slipping. The risks of exposure to anaesthetic are also more serious to those who are overweight. Despite this, many patients are still not fully aware of the potential dangers involved before proceeding with surgery.
If you have any concerns about the performance of your weight loss surgery or the failure to warn you of foreseeable risks, then please do not hesitate to contact one of our specialist clinical negligence solicitors on 0845 144 1441 for free initial advice, alternatively please complete our online enquiry form and a member of the team will contact you.
Areas of specialism
- Post-operative infection
- Post-operative care
- Surgical error
- Gastric bands slipping
- Negligent treatment abroad
