Author: bell

Understanding Morbid Obesity: The Risks and the Importance of Taking Action Now

Posted on March 21, 2019

Body Mass Index Chart

Body Mass Index Chart

 

Obesity is a growing health problem that affects millions of people across the U.S. As the number of overweight Americans rises, so does the number of people who are considered severely or morbidly obese, medically classified as class III obesity formerly, which includes a BMI of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35 or more fat along with related health conditions.

Many different environmental and genetic factors can contribute to increased weight gain, from poor eating habits to high stress levels. Without the proper intervention and treatment, weight gain can escalate to dangerous levels, leading to a higher risk of diseases, health problems, significant physical disability, or even death, especially among different ethnic populations who may face unique risks associated with body fat distribution and BMI.

What are Morbid Obesity and Body Mass Index BMI?

Morbid obesity, formerly known as morbid, is now called class III obesity. It is a complex and progressive disease that increases the risk of developing comorbidities and weight-related health problems and interferes with the ability to perform many daily physical functions.

It is characterized as an extreme amount of excess body fat and is often measured by calculating Body Mass Index, or BMI, which is a person’s body fat based on height and weight. The World Health Organization (WHO) has proposed BMI thresholds for obesity to aid in health assessments and classifications.

A person is considered morbidly obese when they reach a body mass index of 40 or higher or are more than 100 pounds over what is considered to be an ideal body weight. Along with BMI, morbid obesity is also diagnosed when a person reaches a level of obesity that greatly increases their risk factor of developing life-threatening health problems.

Health Risks and Conditions Associated with Morbid Obesity

Morbid obesity is recognized as a chronic disease and, if left untreated, can lead to the development of one or more severe health problems. Intestinal bypass surgery has historically been used to justify insurance reimbursement for weight loss procedures in individuals classified as morbidly obese, particularly those with a BMI over 40. Central obesity, characterized by high levels of abdominal fat despite a lower waist circumference and lower overall body weight, can increase health risks, particularly in specific ethnic populations such as Asians, who may have a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes at lower BMI levels. Common conditions associated with morbid obesity include:

  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Heart Disease
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Sleep Apnea and Other Breathing Disorders
  • Reproductive Problems
  • Stroke

The Importance of Taking Action

Addressing morbid obesity is crucial for enhancing overall health and minimizing the risk of severe obesity-related complications. Morbid obesity, also known as class III obesity, is a serious health condition affecting millions globally. It is defined by a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35 or higher accompanied by at least one obesity-related health condition.

The significance of taking action cannot be overstated. Morbid obesity significantly increases the risk of developing critical health issues such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. It also reduces life expectancy and diminishes the quality of life. Additionally, morbid obesity can lead to conditions like obesity hypoventilation syndrome, where the lungs do not receive sufficient oxygen, and obstructive sleep apnea, where breathing is interrupted during sleep.

Addressing morbid obesity often requires a combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions. Lifestyle changes include adopting a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity. Medical interventions, such as bariatric surgery, can be highly effective. Bariatric surgery, or weight loss surgery, involves altering the stomach and intestines to reduce food intake and promote weight loss.

In addition to medical treatments, healthy lifestyle choices are essential for managing morbid obesity. This includes a healthy weight, consuming a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Seeking support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends is also vital in managing the emotional and psychological aspects of morbid obesity.

Treatment Options for Morbid Obesity (Weight Loss Medications)

Morbid obesity is a complex medical condition, that requires a comprehensive treatment approach. The goal of treatment is to achieve a healthy body weight, improve overall health, and reduce the risk of obesity-related complications. Here are some effective treatment options:

  • Dietary Changes: Adopting a healthy, balanced diet low in calories and nutrients is crucial for weight loss. Working with a registered dietitian can help create a personalized meal plan that meets your needs and preferences. This plan will focus on nutrient-dense foods that promote satiety and reduce overall calorie intake.
  • Physical Activity: Regular exercise is essential for burning calories and improving overall health. Activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling can be particularly beneficial. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity weekly exercise to help manage weight and enhance cardiovascular health.
  • Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to overeating and weight gain. This therapeutic approach helps individuals develop healthier habits and coping mechanisms.
  • Weight Loss Medications: In some cases, weight loss medications like orlistat and phentermine-topiramate can be prescribed to help reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness. These medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider and in conjunction with lifestyle changes to ensure safety and effectiveness.
  • Bariatric Surgery: For individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher or those with a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions, bariatric surgery may be a viable option. Procedures such as gastric bypass surgery or sleeve gastrectomy can significantly reduce food intake and promote substantial weight loss, improving health outcomes.

Managing Morbid Obesity in Special Populations

Morbid obesity can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, or ethnicity. However, certain populations may be at higher or greater risk and require tailored treatment approaches:

  • Children and Adolescents: Childhood obesity is a growing concern, and morbid obesity can have severe consequences for young people. Treatment should focus on lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating and regular physical activity. Encouraging family involvement and creating a supportive environment can promote long-term healthy habits.
  • Older Adults: Older adults with morbid obesity may face higher risks for age-related health conditions, such as osteoarthritis and cognitive decline. Treatment should emphasize gentle exercise, like walking or water aerobics, and a balanced diet supporting overall health while accommodating age-related dietary restrictions.
  • Pregnant Women: Pregnant women with morbid obesity are at increased risk for complications such as gestational diabetes and hypertension. Treatment should focus on healthy eating and regular physical activity under the guidance of a healthcare provider to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Early intervention is critical for preventing and treating morbid obesity. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of achieving a healthy body weight and reducing the risk of obesity-related complications. Early intervention can also help prevent the development of related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

By addressing morbid obesity early, individuals can take proactive steps to improve their health and quality of life. This may involve making dietary changes, increasing physical activity, seeking behavioral therapy, or considering medical interventions like weight loss medications or bariatric surgery. Early intervention enhances the effectiveness of treatment and helps individuals build sustainable, healthy habits that can last a lifetime.

Overcoming the Challenges of Morbid Obesity

Overcoming the challenges associated with class III obesity, formerly known as morbid obesity, requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of the condition. One of the most significant challenges is the stigma and discrimination that individuals with morbid obesity often face. This can make it difficult for them to seek help and support, exacerbating feelings of shame and low self-esteem.

Another challenge is the difficulty of losing weight and maintaining weight loss. Morbid obesity is a chronic condition that necessitates ongoing management and treatment. It is not merely a matter of “dieting” or an exercise program “exercising more” but a complex process involving sustainable lifestyle changes.

To overcome these challenges, seeking support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends is essential. This support can include working with a registered dietitian to develop a healthy eating plan, exercising with a personal trainer, and seeking counseling to address emotional and psychological issues.

Educating oneself about morbid obesity and the various treatment options available is also crucial. This includes learning about bariatric surgery, medication, and lifestyle changes that can help manage the condition.

Finally, it is important to focus on progress, not perfection. Overcoming morbid obesity is a journey that requires patience, persistence, and self-compassion. It is not about achieving a “normal” weight or body shape but improving overall health and well-being.

By taking action and seeking support, individuals with morbid obesity can overcome the challenges of the condition and enhance their overall health and quality of life.

Morbid Obesity and Bariatric Surgery

For people diagnosed with morbid obesity, the risks associated with not having weight loss surgery are often higher than the risks of surgery itself. Obesity is considered a progressive disease because excess fat storage and weight gain cause several hormonal and metabolic changes in the body that increase the risk for even more significant fat accumulation over time, making it difficult to lose weight using diet and exercise alone. A multifaceted approach, including diet, exercise, and medical interventions, is often necessary to overcome the challenges associated with severe obesity.

Luckily, treatment is available, and surgery is an extremely viable option. At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we work to educate our patients on their weight loss options, as well as life after surgery. Please schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about your weight management options and improve your health!

LEARN MORE ABOUT IF WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY IS RIGHT FOR YOU

Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery is a caring group of professionals specializing in all bariatric surgery types. Our surgeon, Dr. Jay Long, has highly specialized training in bariatric surgery, having completed a fellowship in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery at The Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas, where he focused on taking care of morbidly obese patients. And we are so proud of our pricing that we publish the costs right on the front page of our website! Insurance won’t pay? We offer various financing options to get the healthy body you’ve wanted for years. Visit us today at www.bmisurgery.com or call us to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907.

Conclusion

Morbid obesity is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive treatment approach. By understanding the causes and consequences of morbid obesity, individuals can take the first step towards achieving a healthy body weight and reducing the risk of obesity-related complications. Treatment options, such as dietary changes, physical activity, behavioral therapy, weight loss medications, and bariatric surgery, can help individuals achieve their weight loss goals. Early intervention is critical for preventing and treating morbid obesity, and healthcare providers should work with individuals to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets their unique needs.

Taking action now can significantly improve health and quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with morbid obesity, don’t hesitate to seek help and explore the available treatment options.

Establishing a Work Out Routine After Weight Loss Surgery

Posted on February 26, 2019

Shoes, workout equipment and water bottle on wood floor

Shoes, workout equipment and water bottle on wood floor

 

Establishing a workout routine after weight loss surgery is a major factor that affects the long-term success of your weight loss journey. Regular exercise will help you recover faster, reach your weight loss goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle. No matter what your activity level was prior to surgery, we recommend working with your physician and fitness professionals to establish an exercise plan to meet your unique needs and abilities.

 

The Benefits of Exercise After Weight Loss Surgery

 

We can’t stress enough the importance of developing an exercise routine after surgery. Regular exercise leads to measurable improvements in weight loss and better overall health. Setting attainable goals and gradually increasing your daily activity level post-surgery has many benefits including:

  • Maintaining weight loss
  • Improving circulation
  • Strengthening your heart and bones
  • Increasing your metabolic rate
  • Developing muscle strength and endurance
  • Improving blood sugar control
  • Relieving stress
  • Improving your mood

 

When To Start Working Out After Surgery

 

Patients can typically begin very light exercise within the first week after surgery. We understand that this can seem like a daunting task to take on so soon, but once cleared by your surgeon, the sooner you begin being active, the better.

The important thing to remember is to start small and set realistic goals. No one expects you to come straight out of surgery and run a marathon. Focus on adding activities to your daily routine that will encourage you to increase your heart rate, improve flexibility and build endurance.

 

Starting Your Post-Op Workout Routine

 

Week 1 – Week 4 Post-Op: Take this time to focus on getting back into the routine of your normal everyday activities. You should not lift anything over 10 pounds, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be active. Need to do the dishes? Try washing them by hand, so you have to stay standing longer. If you have stairs in your home, walk up and down them a few extra times each day to get your heart rate up.

Set a goal to walk for a certain amount of time and then push yourself to walk a little longer each day. Slowly increasing your daily activity level right after weight loss surgery will help you build up stamina and add more active habits in your daily life.

After 4 Weeks Post-Op: Each patient is different, but at four weeks post-op you should be cleared to perform most, if not all, exercises. This is when you can really start ramping up your workout routine and begin exploring different types of exercises to find what you like best.

Walking is a great option, but can be hard on your joints. If that’s the case for you, swap a few days of walking for a few days spent in the pool. Water activities, like aerobics, are typically lower impact and can be a fun new way to stay active.

The important thing to remember throughout your weight loss journey, is that you are not alone. It is easy to get discouraged at times, but there are great resources to help you along the way. We’ve found that patients who seek out support, follow an exercise routine and stick to a healthy diet are far more likely to lose the weight and keep it off.

 

Learn More About Post-Op Exercise from Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery

Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery is a caring group of professionals who specialize in all types of bariatric surgery.  Our surgeon Dr. Jay Long has highly specialized training in bariatric surgery, having completed a fellowship in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery at The Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas, where he focused on taking care of patients that are morbidly obese.  And we are so proud of our pricing that we publish the costs right on the front page of our website!  Insurance won’t pay?  We have a variety of financing options we can offer you so that you are able to get the healthy body you’ve wanted for years.  Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907.

Achieve Your New Year’s Resolutions With CoolSculpting

Posted on February 26, 2019

2019 New Year's Resolution

2019 New Year's Resolution

 

Did you make a New Year’s resolution to get fit and healthy in 2019? Don’t get discouraged if you haven’t seen the results you were hoping for yet. Even with a healthy diet and strict exercise routine, stubborn pockets of fat can still stick around and seemingly hide all of the progress you’ve made. If this is something you are struggling with, then CoolSculpting may be the perfect solution for you.

 

What is CoolSculpting?

 

CoolSculpting is an FDA cleared, non-surgical procedure that can help you eliminate fat with little to no downtime. It is often used to reduce stubborn fat cells that exist in areas of your body that are difficult to target with diet and exercise alone.

During the procedure, precisely controlled cooling is used to gently and effectively target the fat cells underneath the skin. Once frozen, the fat cells will begin to die and your body will naturally process and eliminate them. Because this is a non-invasive procedure, there is no risk of scarring and you can return to your daily routine almost right away.

 

How Can CoolSculpting Help Me Achieve My New Year’s Resolutions?

 

For many patients, CoolSculpting is the perfect incentive to help them stick to their New Year’s resolutions. It is a great option if you are looking to fine-tune your figure, look slimmer in clothes and regain confidence.

While CoolSculpting is not a weight loss solution, it can help you lose unwanted fat in areas of your body that are difficult to target with just diet and exercise. Additionally, because it is a non-surgical procedure, you won’t have to worry about taking a break from your fitness regime. You can continue to focus on getting healthy and fit, all while seeing the slimming effects of reducing unwanted fat in those troublesome areas.  

 

Getting Started with CoolSculpting

 

Every CoolSculpting patient is different and we at BMI Surgery take extra care to make sure we provide the best treatment options to meet our patients’ needs. We start with a one-on-one consultation, during which we complete a physical evaluation, discuss your desired results and answer any questions you may have about the procedure.

If we determine that you are a good fit for CoolSculpting, we will then create a customized treatment plan that will help you achieve your fat loss goals and get you one step closer to making your New Year’s resolutions come true.

Want to learn more about if CoolSculpting is right for you? Schedule a free consultation with us today!

Learn More About How CoolSculpting Can Help You Reach Your Fat Loss Goals from Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery

Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery is a caring group of professionals who specialize in all types of bariatric surgery.  Our surgeon Dr. Jay Long has highly specialized training in bariatric surgery, having completed a fellowship in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery at The Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas, where he focused on taking care of patients that are morbidly obese.  And we are so proud of our pricing that we publish the costs right on the front page of our website!  Insurance won’t pay?  We have a variety of financing options we can offer you so that you are able to get the healthy body you’ve wanted for years.  Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907.

Health Complications of the Obesity Epidemic

Posted on December 27, 2017

weight loss

Obesity is one of the leading causes of sickness and death in the United States. In fact, obesity-related diseases cause more than 300,000 deaths every year. Taking care of your health by managing your weight is one of the best things you can do to maximize your opportunity to live a long, healthy and enjoyable life.

It’s worth noting that it isn’t necessarily the excess fat stored in an obese person’s body that causes so many deaths. Instead, it is the myriad diseases and conditions that frequently result from being so overweight.

Here are a few examples:

Gout

Gout is a disease that causes uric acid in the blood to rise to unsafe levels. This leads to painful flare-ups and pain in the joints.

Cancer

Everyone has some risk of cancer, but being obese can significantly increase the risks associated with cancer — and particularly specific types of cancer. Some of the cancers with the greatest increase in risk include kidney cancer, esophageal cancer, colon cancer and breast cancer. However, there is some evidence that other cancers can become more likely in some people who are chronically obese.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a particularly unfortunate obesity-related disease. While some people are unfortunate enough to be genetically predisposed to diabetes, Type 2 diabetes is frequently linked to preventable causes, like obesity.

Type 2 diabetes can lead to a significant reduction in quality of life and can severely reduce life expectancy for those diagnosed.

Heart Disease

One of the better-known complications associated with obesity, heart disease continues to be one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Heart disease is a broad term used to describe conditions such as a heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and a number of other conditions. Individuals who are obese but take significant efforts to reduce their weight and improve their health can reduce the risk of heart disease.

Osteoarthritis

The additional weight and strain that an obese person puts on his or her joints can lead to a number of conditions, including osteoarthritis. This condition is defined by the wearing down of cartilage in the joints, leading to pain, reduced mobility and numbness throughout various parts of the body.

Obesity can lead to many negative health conditions. Take charge of your health today by managing your diet and getting your body to a healthy weight!

Gastric Sleeve Surgery and Losing Weight

Posted on December 27, 2017

woman weighing herself

According to the CDC, more than 36 percent of adults in the United States struggle with obesity. Losing weight and getting healthy is a goal many people find difficult to achieve. Gastric sleeve is a procedure that can help you lose weight and eliminate a variety of weight-related health conditions.

Why Is Losing Weight so Difficult?

The diet industry will often tell you how easy it is to lose weight if you follow their plan or take their pills. You already know, however, there isn’t a simple fix. Taking off excess weight is hard because of several factors. In society, you are surrounded by poor food choices and often live a sedentary lifestyle. You may also struggle against a genetic predisposition to gain weight and a slow metabolism.

Many scientists also believe that set point theory may contribute to your inability to lose weight. According to MIT Medical, a set point is a system of controls similar to a thermostat that’s built into each person. This determines how much fat each person should carry. Changing a set point to achieve weight loss can be extremely difficult.

How Can Gastric Sleeve Help You Lose Weight?

Gastric sleeve is a procedure that can be far more effective in achieving and maintaining weight loss than exercise and diet alone. While you are under general anesthesia, a surgeon removes part of your stomach through a small incision. This procedure reduces the overall size of your stomach and allows you to only eat a small amount at one time.

You can expect to lose weight over the course of several months. While success rates will vary, you may reduce excess weight by approximately 70 percent. The Cleveland Clinic reports there are several health benefits that can be obtained through weight loss surgery. A few include improved cardiovascular functioning, remission of type 2 diabetes and joint pain relief.

What Are the Qualifications for Gastric Sleeve?

Gastric sleeve is a procedure that is usually reserved for individuals who are considered morbidly obese. Many patients will also have additional health conditions, such as sleep apnea or hypertension. Being able to handle the physical stress of surgery is also a requirement.

It’s important to remember that even though gastric sleeve can provide effective and dramatic weight loss, long-term success is maintained by incorporating good exercise and eating habits into your daily routine.

Many insurance plans now cover weight loss procedures including gastric sleeve. If you’ve been struggling with losing weight, now is the time to consider gastric sleeve to help you reach your weight loss goals. Gastric sleeve can be part of an effective and lasting weight loss plan.

Why You Should Use Google Fit After Gastric Sleeve Surgery!

Posted on December 27, 2017

walking

Around 106,000 Americans had gastric sleeve surgery in 2015 — significantly more than the previous year. Experts recommend exercise after a major weight-loss procedure in order to strengthen the heart and bones, build muscle, reduce stress, improve mood and burn calories. Walking is a great idea after gastric sleeve surgery, and the latest technology makes it easy to track this type of exercise. If you have recently undergone a gastric sleeve operation, Google Fit lets you monitor your walking goals and weight loss progress directly from your smartphone.

What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

A gastric sleeve operation is a procedure where surgeons reduce the size of your stomach by around 15 percent of its original size. This surgery limits the amount of food you can consume, so you should feel fuller after eating small meals.

Why is Walking Important After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Walking improves your blood flow and expedites wound healing after surgery. Lack of exercise after a major operation could put you at a higher risk of developing a blood clot and conditions like pneumonia. Walking also helps you burn calories. A 180-pound person burns, on average, 100 calories for every mile they walk, while a 120-pound person burns 65 calories per mile.

The Benefits of Google Fit

Google Fit is a mobile app that uses the built-in sensors on your smartphone to detect walking steps. This platform tracks more than 120 activities, from slow walking to brisk jogging.

How to Use Google Fit

Download Google Fit from the Google Play Store on your Android device. You can then customize your exercise goals from the Daily Goals tab in the Settings menu. Google Fit will track the number of steps you take every time you hold your phone.

Want to track your progress over time? Head over to the See Graph Details tab for an overview of your walking steps from the previous days, weeks and months. You can also connect third-party exercise apps — RunKeeper, Strava, Runtastic, etc. — with Google Fit.

Google Fit monitors your fitness goals after gastric sleeve surgery. The result? You can improve recovery times and boost your overall health.

Avoid These Common Mistakes After Bariatric Surgery

Posted on December 27, 2017

If your focus is long-term weight loss, bariatric surgery is a proven way to accomplish this goal. But just as with anything worth having, you have worked hard and follow the guidelines provided by your physician in order to lose the weight and keep it off. Avoiding these common mistakes is a great way to ensure you finally reach your goal weight and stay there.

1. Neglecting Important Vitamins

Your physician will recommend vitamins to help your body recover from the surgery and maintain the best health possible. Don’t try to save money by purchasing over-the-counter vitamins. Take the ones recommended by your doctor to ensure your body is getting all the vitamins and minerals it needs.

2. Not Getting Proper Nutrition

Surgery is serious business, and it is important that your body heals properly. Now that your caloric content is constructed, it’s vital that you pack your diet with healthy nutrients. Your body won’t function well if you use your calorie rations to only eat potato chips or other foods that have no nutritional value. If you don’t eat the foods your physician recommends, you are at risk of developing medical problems, such as heart disease, memory loss, fatigue, etc. Stomach and gastrointestinal problems are also a concern.

3. Forgetting to Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water or healthy liquids is one of the most important things anyone can do to enjoy maximum health. Water helps every part of your body function well. Staying hydrated is particularly important for surgical patients since it helps the body heal provides energy and hastens weight loss. If you don’t like tap water, buy flavored water, add lemon to your water or drink another healthy beverage, such as unsweetened ice tea.

4. Not Watching Your Calories

You may think that a tiny handful of nuts, chips, crackers or candy won’t affect your diet, but these foods pack a lot of calories in small portions. If you don’t count the calories of every morsel, you may wind up consuming hundreds more calories each day. This common mistake is one of the ways bariatric patients fail to reach their long-term weight goals.

5. Indulging in Alcohol

Almost everyone enjoys an alcoholic beverage at times, especially if there is a special occasion. Be cognizant of the fact that alcoholic beverages are full of calories and can quickly cause you to go over your calorie limit.

6. Drinking Carbonated Beverages

Carbonated beverages are quite refreshing but shouldn’t be your beverage of choice when you’re thirsty. They are full of sugar, which substantially increases your calorie intake. Carbonated drinks can also cause gas pain. At times, more serious issues can be mistaken for gas pains, and this can cause you to neglect medical care when you really need it.

Having bariatric surgery is your chance for a new life filled with the quality living you crave. Following the guidelines the doctor gave you ensures you stay focused on this long-term goal and eventually reap the rewards!

How Does CoolSculpting Work?

Posted on December 27, 2017

Do you struggle with weight loss? You’re not alone. Losing weight is a challenging process that stumps millions of people around the world. Some of the most promising diets oftentimes fail because the weight comes back as soon as you stop dieting. CoolSculpting is one of the newest FDA approved procedures that can be an effective, long-term solution for stubborn fat. Here’s how it works:

What Is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is based on a proven scientific process called cryolipolysis. In cryolipolysis, fat cells located underneath the skin are targeted by doctors to be eliminated. These cells are then frozen in place. The frozen cells eventually die and are cleared away by the body’s natural processes.

This enables the body to get rid of fat cells in a much more natural manner as compared to invasive procedures like liposuction.

What Are The Advantages?

Here are a few of the advantages you can expect from CoolSculpting.

Safe Procedure

CoolSculpting is a safe procedure that uses minimally invasive techniques to freeze fat tissue in localized areas. This allows doctors to deliver the results that will make you look sculpted without the use of more invasive procedures.

Effective Treatment

CoolSculpting is rapidly becoming a more preferred option among patients and with good reason. One study found that targeted fat removal of enlarged male breasts using cryolipolysis was extremely effective with producing visual improvement in their condition.

Cost Effective

Normal fat removal procedures require anesthesia, surgical equipment and can cost thousands of dollars. This can be devastating to some people who desperately need the treatment.

By doing away with costly anesthesia and hospital beds, fat removal can be much more affordable than many people realize.

Controlled Procedure

When compared to more invasive procedures like liposuction, CoolSculpting is a much more controlled method of fat removal with fewer side effects. Traditional methods can lead to changes in the skin or change lipid pools. CoolSculpting reduces the risk of both while significantly reducing fat and providing a contour to the body.

If you think CoolSculpting could work for your stubborn body fat, schedule an appointment with BMI today. With our experienced specialists, we can provide you with the treatment you have been waiting for.

Lose Weight Fast with Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Posted on December 27, 2017

Around 45 million Americans diet every year, according to research from the Boston Medical Center. Still, some people struggle to shed the pounds. As a result, more drastic weight loss procedures, such as gastric sleeve surgery, have become attractive. This surgery reduces part of your stomach, so you feel fuller after consuming food. The result? You eat less and lose more weight.

What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery removes around 80 percent of your stomach and leaves behind a vertical tube — called a “sleeve” — that is around the size of a banana. After this operation, you will notice that you feel much fuller than you normally would after consuming food. Therefore, you will need to select small portion sizes at meal times.

Gastric sleeve surgery produces rapid weight loss, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. One study suggests that people can lose more than 50 percent of their total body weight in a three- to five-year period. Moreover, weight loss is comparable to that of a gastric bypass — another bariatric surgical procedure.

Here’s the science behind gastric sleeve surgery: this procedure causes positive changes in your body’s gut hormones. Consequently, it reduces appetite, increases satiety and suppresses hunger. The surgery itself is relatively simple — it takes between 60 and 90 minutes.

What Are the Other Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Research shows that gastric sleeve surgery is beneficial for specific health conditions, including type 2 diabetes. Diabetes remission rates post-surgery are more than 60 percent and, as shown in some studies, are similar to the results experienced after gastric bypass procedures. Other research suggests that gastric sleeve surgery reduces the risk of certain types of cancer, overcomes depression and improves sleep apnea.

Gastric sleeve surgery is an option for adults who struggle to lose weight using conventional methods. This procedure might also benefit people who have type 2 diabetes and other health conditions.

Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery (BMI) specializes in gastric sleeve surgery. Do you qualify for this procedure? Contact us here to find out more.

What to Expect From BMI Coolsculpting

Posted on December 27, 2017

Do you struggle with stubborn body fat that won’t go away no matter how committed you are to diet and exercise? If so, Coolsculpting may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Coolsculpting isn’t for everyone, however. Here’s a look at what you can expect from BMI Coolsculpting to help you determine if it’s the right solution for you.

What Is Coolsculpting?

Coolsculpting is a non-invasive fat reduction procedure that eliminates stubborn fat cells that are resistant to diet and exercise. This FDA-cleared treatment is meant only for fat reduction purposes and not for weight loss. It uses a controlled cooling procedure that freezes fat cells and causes them to die and to be eliminated safely from the body. Coolsculpting can be used in various parts of the body, such as thighs, underneath buttocks, abdomen, back and chin.

What to Expect From Coolsculpting Treatment

Here’s a look at the steps you can expect when undergoing Coolsculpting treatment.

One-on-One Consultation

The first step is to schedule a one-on-one consultation with an approved Coolsculpting provider, such as BMI. During this consultation, your medical professional will complete a physical evaluation, discuss your fat reduction goals and determine your treatment options.

Customized Treatment Plan

If your physician determines that you are a prime candidate for Coolsculpting, they will create a customized treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals. Your physician will let you know if you will need one or more treatments in order to obtain the results you want.

What to Expect on Treatment Day

Most treatments take between 30 and 60 minutes, so feel free to bring a book or mobile device to occupy your time. Your medical provider will apply a gel pad and applicator to the treatment area(s). As you physician applies the controlled cooling, the area may feel cold. You also may feel a slight tug or pull as the attached vacuum applicator pulls out fat tissues.

Possible Side Effects

Coolsculpting side effects are minimal but could include swelling, bruising, tingling, redness, skin sensitivity, itching, aching, cramping, tenderness and firmness. Typically, any side effects diminish within a just a few days or weeks.

No Downtime

Since Coolsculpting is a non-surgical process, the downtime after treatment is minimal. In fact, many patients return to their normal activities immediately after treatment.

When to Expect Results

Initial results of Coolsculpting can appear in as little as three weeks, but full results may take up to three months.

If you think Coolsculpting may be the solution to your stubborn body fat, schedule your one-on-one consultation with BMI today. As an approved Coolsculpting provider, BMI offers the safe and effective fat reduction treatment to help you get the body you’ve always wanted.