Weight-loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, includes procedures such as gastric bypass surgery, gastric sleeve surgery, and lap band surgery. These procedures can produce many benefits for patients, but they also carry a high level of risk.

A variety of complications are associated with these procedures. Complications can result in serious health conditions or, in extreme cases, death.

Litigation may occur even when the care provided by physicians and other medical providers satisfies high standards. When providers deviate from the standard of care and provide substandard treatment to patients, litigation frequently results. Damage awards in lawsuits involving injuries resulting from weight-loss surgery can be high.

Attorneys, physicians, hospitals, insurers, employers, and other potential parties to the litigation should be aware of the types of lawsuits and liability issues that can arise in connection with weight-loss surgery.

Arbitration or mediation may be required by contract or statute, may be mandated by the court or, in some circumstances, may be the appropriate method for a negotiated resolution.   

The following are reasons why the attorney, physician, insurer, or employer would want to reach settlement, and not take the action to trial.

The following are reasons why the attorney, physician, insurer, or employer would want to take the action to trial.

How much have juries awarded and what settlements have been reached recently in cases involving bariatric surgery injury?

This section provides detailed medical information on obesity and weight-loss treatments, the types of surgery available, the selection of bariatric surgery candidates, and the complications and risks of weight-loss surgery. Also discussed is the patient’s ability to work.  

Provided is a listing of law and medical resources for further information on weight loss surgery.