If you’re weighing the gastric bypass surgery risk against the benefits, then you’re smart. While the benefits of good health and a happier life can not be disputed, surgery is surgery and you need to know what you’re getting into.

Because gastric bypass surgery is invasive and complex, there are risks inherent in that. Cutting someone open will make you susceptible to infection and possible extended bleeding.

Here are some of the other risks: incisional hernia, stomal stenosis (meaning that you may experience vomiting following surgery), ulcer, gallstones, leaking from where the new stomach is ‘hooked up,’ blood clots in the legs, and death.

Thankfully with proper after surgery care and following doctor’s orders, you’re not going to experience these effects in most cases. Even death as a gastric bypass surgery risk is listed at about a one percent chance of incidence.

So, here’s what you need to know: If you’re in good health prior to the surgery, then you’ll have fewer risks. And if not, talk with your doctor about your concerns and follow any instructions that you are given.

If you do end up having a problem, or something just doesn’t feel right, report it immediately to your physician.