Gallstones
The incidence of gallstones in the general population is approximately 15%. However, up to 50% of those having bariatric surgery can develop gallstones after surgery. Half of these will be symptomatic. The standard treatment for symptomatic gallstones is to perform a laparoscopic cholecystectomy (removing the gallbladder via keyhole surgery).
Hiatus Hernia
A hiatus hernia is when some of you stomach goes up into your chest. obesity is a risk factor for developing a hiatus hernia. This should be fixed when found at the time of your weight loss procedure, or if you are suffering from symptoms such as acid reflux. It is repaired by reducing the stomach into the abdomen and tightening the muscles of the diaphragm.
Umbilical hernia
An umbilical hernia (belly button hernia) is very common. This is where a bulge of tissue protrudes at the belly button, causing an “outie”. If it causes discomfort, it should be repaired. The surgery can be performed either laparoscopically, for those hernias where the size of the defect is less than 3cm, or as an open procedure, if the size of the defect is greater than 3cm.
Inguinal/femoral hernia
Inguinal and femoral hernias (groin hernias) are common and we recommend repairing all hernias if they cause discomfort. These can be performed either laparoscopically or as an open procedure. The approach is dependent on a number of variables and these will be discussed at your consultation.