text: does anyone know if the benefits out weigh the side effects of having weightloss surgery?   what a great question, and one that has an answer unique to you only.  you need to talk to your doctor to find out every possible harm, risk, lifestyle change and alternative option you have to consider.  then write down what you hope to get from the procedure (or the alternative) and weigh each positive outcome against each of these risks/changes and decide which counts more for you.  this will help you understand whether the surgery is right for you.  hope this helps.   here is a great form to help you structure your decision points: http://decisionaid.ohri.ca/decguide.html