Author: bell

Questions to Ask About Your Weight At the End of 2021

Posted on December 2, 2021

questions about weight gain

weight gain
When we come to the end of a year, many of us naturally reflect on all that’s happened. It’s important to examine what we’ve done, how we are doing, and where we’re heading. This is especially important when it comes to our health. The years can slip by so quickly, and if you don’t take time to honestly consider where you are, you may not make the necessary changes.

For many people, weight gain happens gradually. And as the weight continues to climb, oftentimes other serious health conditions start to add up as well. Before you know it, not only do you fit into the category of “obese,” but you also have other concerning health problems.

The key to avoiding this is to catch it early, and then make a commitment to stop the weight gain and declining health as quickly as possible. Weight loss surgery at Birmingham Minimally Invasive may be the best option, and our surgeon, Dr. Jay Long, will meet with you to discuss everything you need to know.

Questions to Ask Yourself About Your Weight

Generally speaking, bariatric surgery could be an option if your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher (considered extreme obesity). It may also be an option if your BMI is 35 to 39.9 (considered obesity), and you have a serious weight-related health problem, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or severe sleep apnea.

But there’s much more to it than those technical definitions and categories. As we near the end of 2021, think about these questions to see if your weight and overall health are where they need to be.

Do you feel like the weight has crept up on you slowly?

It’s really common for people to feel this way, and if you don’t pay attention, it can actually happen pretty fast. This is what happened to BMI Surgery patient, June.

“Over the years, I consistently gained weight. I’d gain about 5 to 10 pounds every couple of months, and literally before I knew it, I was pushing 300 pounds. It just kind of happens before you know it,” she says.

Do you have a long list of health problems, in addition to being obese?

If the answer is yes, you are in a similar situation as our patient, Lisa who experienced gradual weight gain year after year. She also had type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, unpredictable blood sugar, and she was passing out at work. 

“My cardiologist told me that my number one priority was losing weight. He said I had literally taken years off of my life by not eating healthy and exercising,” she says. Lisa had gastric bypass surgery with us and was successful in losing a significant amount of weight and changing her life.

Do you feel like you are missing out on life?

If so, you’re feeling similarly to how one patient, Tami, felt. “Before surgery, I was miserable. I was unable to do certain things with my son. I had trouble breathing. I struggled to get off the sofa and out of bed. I even had trouble tying my shoes. I couldn’t fit on a roller coaster. I couldn’t cross my legs, and I was sweating all the time,” she says. Tami changed her life with gastric sleeve surgery and is now able to enjoy life to the fullest.

Have you tried everything to lose weight, but it just doesn’t work long-term?

This was Patti’s story as well. “I was on so many diet plans and even tried diet pills. None of it helped. Nothing seemed to work for me. I would lose maybe 20 pounds, but then eventually gain it back, and after a while, I became frustrated with the whole process,” she says. But weight loss surgery did work for her, and four years later she continued to be successful by following all of Dr. Long’s advice.

Are you uncomfortable going out or being with others?

Natalie stopped wanting to go out and basically only went to work and came home. When she realized how much her weight was impacting her life in a negative way, she decided to have gastric sleeve surgery which brought her back to a happy, healthy weight.

Do you have major mobility issues?

Having a lot of excess weight can impact every part of your body, including your bones and joints. It can be especially bad on your knees, which was the case for Jessica.

“It had actually gotten to the point where I could barely walk anymore. My knee surgeon told me the only other thing that could be done was a knee replacement, but, unfortunately, insurance wouldn’t cover it because I was only 40 years old at the time,” she says. Jessica ended up finding Dr. Long, having gastric bypass surgery, and losing enough weight to improve her knees.

Contact Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery If You Answered “Yes” to Any of These Questions

These are important questions, but they are hard questions. You must be honest with your answers and face the situation head-on. Learning more about weight loss surgery options, such as gastric sleeve surgery, can help jumpstart your commitment to doing better and reversing course in 2022. Contact us if you are ready.

Learn more about weight loss options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

The caring group of professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery will help you get started on your weight loss journey and stay with you every step along the way. Dr. Long and his team specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and the LAP-BAND. Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907. 

Focus on Exercise During the Holiday Season

Posted on November 23, 2021

exercise during holidays

exercise during holidays
While undergoing weight loss surgery is a huge step in your journey toward better health, your work does not stop once your procedure is complete. Diet and exercise will play a significant role in your long-term success, and a regular work-out routine is crucial.

That fact does not change because of the holidays or colder weather! It really becomes even more important, but your commitment to your healthy lifestyle may really be tested.

Here is some information about WHY exercise is so important. We are focusing mostly on exercise after weight loss surgery, but most of this advice applies to anyone who needs to lose weight or is trying to do so on their own.

Why Exercise is So Important During the Holidays (And Always)

Exercise can help you lose more weight and keep it off after surgery. According to several studies by the National Institutes of Health, those who exercised after weight loss surgery saw their body mass index (BMI) decrease 4.2% more than those who did not.

Regular exercise will also help you recover faster, reach your weight loss goals, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and feel better. Even if your activity level before surgery was very low, we will work with you to find an exercise plan to meet your unique needs and abilities.

During the holidays when there are more sugary, rich foods floating around, we know that you may partake some. We urge you to be very careful in how much you eat and what you eat. One of the main reasons for this is that overeating or eating too much of the wrong foods will just make you feel bad. When you are used to eating in a very healthy way all the time and then you add in even a little bit of the foods you’ve been avoiding, your body may be a little confused. 

Continuing to exercise like normal will help counteract these effects and keep you feeling energetic, healthy, and motivated. Here are some of the best, overall benefits of regular exercise:

  • Helps maintain weight loss
  • Improves circulation
  • Strengthens your heart and bones
  • Increases your metabolic rate
  • Develops muscle strength and endurance
  • Improves blood sugar control
  • Relieves stress
  • Improves your mood

How to Work Out After Weight Loss Surgery

Even if you have recently had weight loss surgery around the holiday season, all of the following advice still applies. The rules are the same regardless of the time of year. 

For about four weeks after your surgery, your primary focus should be on getting back into the routine of your normal everyday activities. You should not lift anything over 10 pounds, but there are still plenty of ways to be active. During this stage, anything from washing dishes to going up and down the stairs in your home counts as activity. 

Walking is a great option during these first weeks. 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. 

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

The exact timeline for each patient may vary, but after about four weeks, we are able to clear most people for many types of exercise. This is when you can really start ramping up your work-out routine and begin exploring different types of exercises to find what you like best. You will be able to gradually incorporate low-intensity aerobic exercise at this point, such as biking or swimming. 

While there are many benefits of exercise after weight loss surgery, we know that it can be challenging, especially during a busy time of year like the holidays. But remember that many others have been through this process and come to love exercise. 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 weight and keep it off.

Learn more about weight loss options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

The caring group of professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery will help you get started on your weight loss journey and stay with you every step along the way. Dr. Long and his team specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and the LAP-BAND. Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907. 

Will You Overeat This Holiday Season?

Posted on November 12, 2021

holiday overeating

holiday overeating
Turkey and dressing. Pumpkin pie, Christmas cookies, and eggnog. If you’ve had weight loss surgery, do you have a plan for how you will handle these holiday foods?

A lot depends on where you are in your post-op journey, but a lot also depends on your commitment to avoiding binging and overeating. While not everyone who has weight loss surgery has problems with these issues, it is a challenge for some because of long-held habits. 

Holidays foods can be triggering, and they can be anxiety-inducing. This is normal, and you shouldn’t feel badly about it. It helps a lot to understand more about what’s happening in your body after weight loss surgery, and it helps to know what to expect. 

Will You Overeat During the Holidays?

First, the answer to this question really is up to you. And it’s a question to ask yourself even if you have not had weight loss surgery. Going into the season with the right attitude and mindset makes a huge difference. 

Avoiding overeating may not be a huge issue if you’ve had weight loss surgery in the past year or so. During this period of time, your body just won’t let you consume as much food without causing you to feel sick. You learn your lesson pretty quickly, and people are better able to stick with what they know they should do. The challenge will be more for those who have not yet had weight loss surgery or for those who are a few years out from it. 

Appetite Suppression

Many people have the idea that they will not be hungry at all after weight loss surgery. While this is true for some, it’s not true for everyone. You will likely still experience hunger, but it will probably be less than what you experienced before. Appetites are typically suppressed rather than eliminated completely. 

The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery says that bariatric surgery increases the production of certain gut hormones that interact with the brain to reduce hunger, decrease appetite, and enhance satiety (feelings of fullness). Because of these factors, bariatric surgery typically helps produce long-term weight-loss.

Right after surgery, the combination of swollen tissues and the difference in the amount of ghrelin being produced does often pretty much eliminate hunger and cravings. However, this isn’t permanent. Tissues return to normal, and the reduced ghrelin becomes the new normal that your body adjusts to over time. Many lifestyle factors will also lead to feeling hungrier than you were immediately after surgery, but your appetite will likely still be suppressed. Your hunger levels will eventually fall in line with your new food consumption patterns.

Remember that there is a big difference between hunger and cravings. Cravings are more likely during the holiday season. Even after surgery, you may still experience cravings for trigger foods. For example, you may not be hungry at all, but you see Christmas cookies at a party, and you want to eat several. This is a craving, not hunger. 

Managing cravings and hunger after weight-loss surgery is very important. We start preparing you for this before your surgery with our pre-surgery diet plans, and you will also have a post-surgery diet plan. With a plan, strong willpower, and motivation, managing hunger and cravings during the holidays is possible. 

Here are some tips that help many of our patients during the festive time of year!

Protein, Protein, Protein

Eating enough protein is crucial after weight loss surgery and anytime you are trying to keep your body feeling full. It’s a requirement for a healthy metabolism, strong muscles, and high energy levels. 

After weight loss surgery, the number of calories you can eat per sitting and per day will be greatly limited. When you do eat, you need to make the best choices and get maximum nutrient value out of every bite. When it comes to protein, this will likely mean looking at your meal a little differently. While you will have your own customized diet plan, your goal will probably be 60 to 80 grams of protein daily. 

Focusing on protein first typically helps a lot, so head for those holiday foods first. Foods like ham and turkey are often good options. Next, you will want to fill your plate with vegetables. If there are foods you love that you want to try, intentionally save a couple of bites for those. 

Eat Slowly, and Always Make It a Meal

Snacking, grazing, or otherwise eating constantly is often a recipe for disaster. A common approach to holiday buffets, cookie exchanges, and potlucks is to try a little bit of everything. After weight loss surgery, this just isn’t possible or a good idea. You will overeat if you try even one bite of all the selections available. Find your healthy options, put them on your plate, and sit down to eat.

Also keep in mind that many of us eat much faster than we should, and our bodies do not register fullness until it’s too late. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly. Your body will be able to catch up and let you know when to stop eating. 

Drink Water Strategically

Drinking water 45 minutes before and after a meal can also help with hunger, especially because we often mistake thirst for hunger. Weight fluctuations during the holidays may be due to eating a higher amount of salt or carbs which can make you more bloated than usual. Drink extra water to help flush out the extra sodium. 

For those who have had weight loss surgery, you also know that you should not eat and drink at the same time. Since you can only eat three or four bites at a time, you should focus on these bites so you get the nutrients you need. You don’t want to fill your now smaller stomach up with fluids. Plan on drinking later, once your food is digested. This is also important for avoiding dumping syndrome, which you can read more about here.

Focus on Maintenance, Not Weight Loss

Don’t stress yourself out about losing weight during this time. When you let go of this idea, you will hopefully feel more relaxed and be able to handle all of the holiday treats and sweets in a better way. Also remember that one day of splurging will not ruin everything. Commit to making better decisions the next day and move on. 

Contact Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery for More Advice

Because you will likely be eating foods you don’t normally eat during the holiday season, your body may feel a little off sometimes. Eating slowly, drinking water appropriately, and sticking to your schedule as much as possible will help. If you are concerned about overeating or bingeing during this time of year, contact us, and we will connect you with the right resources that can help! 

Learn more about weight loss options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

The caring group of professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery will help you get started on your weight loss journey and stay with you every step along the way. Dr. Long and his team specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and the LAP-BAND. Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907. 

The Truth About Revisional Weight Loss Surgery

Posted on October 21, 2021

revisional weight loss surgery

revisional weight loss surgery
In this post, we are going to talk about something that not a lot of people want to talk about, which is revisional weight loss surgery. Weight loss surgery is one of the most effective long-term weight loss solutions for those suffering from excess weight and obesity. We have had many, many patients continue to see success after their surgery for long-term, sustained weight loss. 

For others, however, it is possible to start regaining some weight years after a successful weight loss procedure. The truth is that it happens. Long-term success takes a lot of constant, continued commitment and work, and sometimes these strict diet and exercise regimens may fall by the wayside for whatever reason. 

In some cases, mild weight regain may be corrected with diet modification and renewed emphasis on exercise. In others, a revisional bariatric procedure may be needed. This procedure should only be performed by a qualified surgeon experienced in revisions, such as Dr. Jay Long of Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

More About Revisional Weight Loss Surgery

Oftentimes what happens is that someone realizes that the volume of food they have been consuming has increased, probably happening slowly over time. What this means is that your gastric pouch or “sleeved” stomach may have increased as well, resulting in weight gain.

Before we discuss revisional surgery with patients, we want to ensure that the weight regain is indeed caused by something other than simply overeating. To help with this, patients should come to our office prepared with a food journal detailing a week or more of meals and exercise. For patients who need help getting back to the right kind of post-bariatric diet, we offer a comprehensive back-on-track program.

Once we determine that it is not a behavioral issue, we will discuss surgical options. A revisional surgical procedure will be undertaken only when all other options are exhausted since there is a greater risk of complications. Which revisional option is the best fit for you will depend on your specific situation and what surgery you had initially.

We may perform an upper GI study, which is an x-ray of the esophagus and stomach. This will allow us to evaluate the general shape of your anatomy and make a plan based on that information. 

Once we have a plan and revisional weight loss surgery has been completed, your recovery time may be a little longer than it was with your original procedure. This increased recovery time is because revisions involve dealing with scar tissue and altered blood supply. You may have to stay in the hospital for two to three days to be monitored. Most patients do resume their normal schedules within a couple of weeks. 

Find Your Second Chance with Revisional Weight Loss Surgery

Rather than looking at it as a failure, we encourage thinking about revisional weight loss surgery as a second chance or a fresh start. Most of our patients in this situation have a renewed commitment to proper diet and exercise, which is always helpful after revisional surgery. 

However, it is important to mention that obesity is a chronic disease. While weight loss surgery and revisional weight loss surgery can be life-saving, they are not cure-alls. Success depends largely on your lifestyle and nutrition. 

Please contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn more about the surgical options to correct weight regain.

Find out more about revisional weight loss surgery and other weight loss options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

The caring group of professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery will help you get started on your weight loss journey and stay with you every step along the way. Dr. Long and his team specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and the LAP-BAND. Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907. 

FAQs About Weight Loss With Gastric Bypass Surgery

Posted on October 12, 2021

gastric bypass FAQs

gastric bypass FAQs
Gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, LAP-BAND. While there are many differences between each of these weight loss surgeries, it can be easy to get them confused or to mix up details about them. That’s very normal since you, as the patient, are not required to be an expert on these procedures. 

But our surgeon at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery is an expert, and most patients truly value the one-on-one consultation they get to have with Dr. Jay Long. Many people comment on his patient approach to this meeting, always taking the time to truly talk things out as much as needed and providing his professional advice. 

He has had these consultations many, many times, and he’s well versed in answering the most common questions about each procedure. We covered FAQs about gastric sleeve surgery in this article, and here, we will provide answers to common questions regarding gastric bypass surgery.

Gastric Bypass Surgery FAQs

How do I know if I qualify for gastric bypass surgery?

Generally speaking, gastric bypass surgery could be a good option for you if you meet any of these requirements:

  • Your previous efforts to lose weight with diet and exercise have been unsuccessful
  • Your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher
  • Your BMI is 35 or higher, and you have a serious weight-related health problem, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or severe sleep apnea
  • You’re a teenager who’s gone through puberty, your BMI is 35 or more, and you have serious obesity-related health problems, such as type 2 diabetes or severe sleep apnea

What happens before and during the gastric bypass procedure?

Prior to the procedure, you will be given a general anesthetic. This will allow you to be asleep throughout the duration of the surgery, and you will not feel any pain. At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we perform laparoscopic gastric bypass, so once you are asleep, Dr. Long creates six small surgical openings on your abdomen. The laparoscope and small surgical instruments are introduced through these openings.

During the procedure, he divides your stomach and reroutes your small intestine to create a small stomach pouch and new digestive route. The small stomach pouch will restrict your food intake. 

A Y-shaped section of the small intestine is attached to the pouch to allow food to bypass the lower stomach, the duodenum (the first segment of the small intestine), and the first portion of the jejunum (the second segment of the small intestine). This bypass route reduces the absorption of nutrients, which also reduces calorie intake. At the end of the surgery, Dr. Long will check the new connections to make sure there are no leaks.

How long does the surgery take, and how long will I be in the hospital?

Gastric bypass surgery typically takes one to two hours and requires a stay of at least one night in the hospital. 

What happens after the gastric bypass procedure?

Depending on your condition, you may be given a clear-liquid diet the day of your surgery. You may be able to start a pureed diet before you go home. You will be given medications to help alleviate any pain or discomfort. We will also instruct you on a special diet plan to follow after surgery. You will have restrictions on how much and what you can eat and drink, and your eating plan may look similar to what’s outlined below. Going through this diet plan while letting your body adjust is an extremely important part of recovery. 

  • Stage one: liquids — right after surgery
  • Stage two: protein-rich liquids— a few days after surgery
  • Stage three: pureed soft foods — approximately two weeks after surgery
  • Stage four: solid foods — approximately four weeks after surgery

We will ask you to come in for regular checkups to monitor your health in the first several months after your gastric bypass procedure. You may need laboratory testing, blood work, and other various exams. We will also be monitoring your weight loss.

How much weight can I expect to lose?

Gastric bypass is often a great option for our heavier patients because most lose up to 80% of their excess body weight (as opposed to about 60% with gastric sleeve surgery). This rapid weight loss can be very beneficial for those who have more severe health issues, such as sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Also keep in mind that gastric bypass has been proven to cure both severe acid reflux and poorly controlled diabetes. If you have either of these issues, this is a huge advantage of significant weight loss that happens relatively quickly.

Is gastric bypass reversible?

Technically it is a reversible procedure. For some, it’s comforting to know this. However, we want to be clear that this is something we always want to avoid, because reversal will cause you to gain the weight back.

How much does gastric bypass surgery cost?

The cost of gastric bypass surgery starts at $15,999, and this cost also includes pre-operative testing, such as blood work and EKG, if necessary; pre-operative nutrition evaluation; surgeon fee for the procedure; anesthesiologist fee; post-operative visit with the nutritionist within 6 weeks of surgery; and more. 

Will the surgery be covered by my insurance?

It may be covered. For patients who do have insurance coverage, the cost may be somewhat less than the numbers mentioned above. However, insurance companies that do provide coverage typically have many requirements you must meet, such as a lengthy physician-supervised diet that may take up to seven months. While your journey might take a little longer, many of our patients have successfully used insurance to help them afford the cost of gastric bypass.

Is Gastric Bypass Your Answer for Weight Loss?

Through your pre-op visits and consultation with Dr. Long, we will help you answer this question. If you are ready to seriously look into it, schedule an appointment with him to get started on your journey to weight loss right away!

Find out more about gastric bypass surgery and other weight loss options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

The caring group of professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery will help you get started on your weight loss journey and stay with you every step along the way. Dr. Long and his team specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and the LAP-BAND. Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907. 

What to Expect With Weight Loss Surgery Recovery

Posted on September 15, 2021

weight loss surgery recovery

weight loss surgery recoveryWe focus a lot on weight loss surgery itself — which one you will have, how to prepare, what happens during the surgery. But even before you get to this point, it’s important to think about recovery. What will that be like, and what should you expect? 

Whether you are having gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, or the LAP-BAND, there will be differences with each one. But many things regarding recovery will be the same. Since we take a minimally invasive approach to all surgeries when possible, this does often mean a quicker and easier recovery regardless of surgery type.

What to Expect from Weight Loss Surgery Recovery

Immediately After Surgery

Some insurance companies require a one-night stay in the hospital after sleeve gastrectomy. However, if you’re not paying with insurance, sleeve gastrectomy will be performed in our outpatient surgery center, and you’ll go home the same day. During your time in the hospital, you will be monitored by staff, and once you are meeting the requirements set forth by our surgeon, you will be allowed to return home to continue your recovery process. 

If you’re having gastric sleeve surgery, we’ll go ahead and start you on the liquid diet immediately after surgery. If you have a gastric bypass, we will start you on a liquid diet the morning after surgery once you have an upper GI study. This swallowing study simply follows the bypass down to make sure there are no leaks or obstructions. As long as there are no issues, we’ll start you on the liquid diet following this test.

Before you leave the hospital, you will be given care instructions as well as a diet plan to follow. After undergoing a major surgery and consuming very few calories, it’s normal to feel exhausted. Your body will devote most of its energy to healing, so plan on resting quite a bit the first few days back home. 

Take into consideration the layout of your home. Are there stairs? If so, will you have to climb steps to get to your bedroom? How easy is it to get to the bathroom? While light activities like brief walks are recommended, climbing stairs and standing or walking for too long can be challenging so it is important to consider these questions ahead of time. 

Post-Surgery Diet

Just after surgery, you’ll be on a clear liquid diet, and you will advance to full liquids at different times depending on the procedure you had. After full liquids, you will advance your diet slowly by introducing soft foods, or foods of a creamy consistency, over the following weeks. After four weeks, you can start introducing meats and other foods that are a part of your normal diet.

The reason for this slow progression is that we don’t want to irritate the stomach after surgery. Liquids and soft foods are really easy for the stomach to break down so that it doesn’t irritate the healing process. This diet just gives the stomach the time it needs to heal.

Post-Surgery Restrictions

Until four weeks post-surgery, you shouldn’t lift anything over 10 lbs. We also don’t want you doing anything like sit ups that could strain the abdominal wall. This limitation is to help you avoid developing a hernia at any of the incision sites. After four weeks, we typically feel safe with you doing most exercises since everything should be healed enough that you won’t do any damage.

Returning to Work

After gastric sleeve surgery, most patients can return to work within one week, and some patients return to work within 3 to 4 days. However, there are different factors that contribute to how quickly you can begin working again, including: 

  • Type of work – Returning to a desk job is much different than returning to a job in construction. The physical demands and level of activity required to do your job will affect the amount of time you will need to take off. 
  • Overall healing process – Everyone heals differently and at their own pace. Returning to work is dependent on how your individual recovery goes and if you experience any complications that can cause the healing process to take longer.

Common Challenges

Post-surgery side effects will vary and most go away over time, but adjusting to the new diet and lifestyle brings its own set of challenges. 

Here are a few things you may experience while recovering:

  • Nausea – After surgery, you will have to re-learn how and what to eat. Your stomach will be a fraction of the size it used to be. As you gradually begin incorporating more food, especially solid food, you will have to determine what your stomach can handle. Eating or drinking too much or too fast can result in nausea or vomiting.  
  • Feeling weak – Consuming less calories can cause you to feel weak or tired. As your body adjusts to the new diet, this feeling should dissipate. 
  • Aches and pains – It is normal to experience some discomfort during your recovery process; however, aches and pains should lessen as time goes on. If pain continues or gets worse, you should talk to us about possible causes and pain relief options.
  • Digestive irregularities – You may experience side effects like constipation, diarrhea, and gurgling noises coming from your stomach. These symptoms are usually diet-related and will improve over time.
  • Temporary hair loss and skin changes – Experiencing hair loss after surgery can be alarming, but it is temporary. The initial low calorie intake and rapid weight loss can cause hair thinning, as well as hormonal changes which can contribute to changes in skin texture and acne. To minimize these effects, take a multivitamin regularly and make sure you are consuming enough daily protein based on your diet plan.  

Long-term Success After Weight Loss Surgery

There is a difference between returning to everyday activities and full recovery. As time passes after your surgery, you will gradually be able to begin eating more and taking on a more active lifestyle. Within a few weeks, you should start to feel less tired and get back into your normal routine. However, your stomach will still be healing. 

On average, it takes about 2 to 3 weeks for the incisions to heal and 6 to 8 weeks for the stomach staple line to heal. After one month, most people can begin a normal exercise routine and are well on the way to being fully recovered.

The patients that take their medications as prescribed and stick with the diet after surgery are the ones we’ve seen be the most successful. We’ve also found that patients who seek out support are also more likely to lose the weight and keep it off. 

While weight loss surgery is quite an undertaking, both physically and mentally, the payoff can be bigger than you’ve ever dreamed. While most of our patients wish they’d done the surgery sooner, it’s never too late to get back to a healthy weight and get your life back.   

Find out more about the weight loss surgery options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

The caring group of professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery will help you get started on your weight loss journey and stay with you every step along the way. Dr. Long and his team specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and the LAP-BAND. Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907. 

FAQs About Weight Loss With Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Posted on September 5, 2021

gastric sleeve FAQs

gastric sleeve FAQs
Gastric sleeve surgery is one of our most popular weight loss surgery options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive. There are many benefits and reasons to choose this surgery, including the fact that it is often a cost-effective choice. It’s also a low-risk procedure with a high success rate. 

But every person is different, and there are many factors that go into our recommendations about which surgery is right for you. We are always happy to answer any and every question you may have, and we hear a lot of them. In this article, we have compiled some of the questions we hear most often about gastric sleeve surgery. See if your question is here, and if not, contact us!

Gastric Sleeve Surgery FAQs

From the specifics of the surgery itself, to recovery and everything in between, here are common questions and answers. 

What exactly happens during the gastric sleeve procedure?

Gastric sleeve surgery is a laparoscopic bariatric procedure that reconfigures the stomach into a sleeve-like shape. In doing so, we remove a part of the stomach responsible for producing ghrelin, the hormone that tells your brain when you’re hungry. The surgery also restricts the size of the stomach, making it much harder to eat large portions of food. These two factors combine to help you lose weight.

Are there any risks to gastric sleeve?

Overall, gastric sleeve surgery is a very safe procedure. Our surgeon, Dr. Jay Long, has performed the surgery many, many times. While it is a minimally invasive procedure, it is a significant surgery, which will always carry some risk, such as internal bleeding and infection.

How much does gastric sleeve surgery cost?

Gastric sleeve surgery is considered one of the less invasive weight loss procedures. It requires less time to perform the surgery and a shorter hospital stay in most cases. This allows us to offer it at a lower price than some other weight-loss surgeries. See specific pricing information here. 

Will my insurance cover the surgery?

Your insurance may cover the surgery, but if it does, there are typically very strict requirements to qualify even though the procedure is medically indicated. This often includes a lengthy physician-supervised diet that usually lasts anywhere from 3-12 months. By paying out of pocket, you avoid all of these strict requirements that insurance companies create. You can start the journey towards a healthier life much more quickly.

How long does it take to recover?

Because we remove a large portion of your stomach, it will take some time to recover. Exactly how long it takes you to get back to normal will depend on many factors, including your starting weight and what type of job you have. However, the important thing to understand here is that we perform gastric sleeve surgery laparoscopically. This avoids the need for large abdominal incisions and results in less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. When you compare it to other options, such as gastric bypass, surgery and recovery time are typically shorter.

How much weight will I lose?

Of course, this varies and depends on many factors. But depending on your pre-operative weight, you can expect to lose between 40 to 70% of your excess body weight in the first year after gastric sleeve surgery. Additionally, many obesity-related problems improve or resolve after the procedure. This may include diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, abnormal cholesterol levels, and more. 

What will I be able to eat after the surgery? 

You will be required to follow a strict post-op eating plan that will look similar to what’s outlined below. Going through this diet plan while letting your body adjust is an extremely important part of recovery. 

  • Stage one: liquids — right after surgery
  • Stage two: protein-rich liquids— a few days after surgery
  • Stage three: pureed soft foods — approximately two weeks after surgery
  • Stage four: solid foods — approximately four weeks after surgery

How else will my eating habits have to change?

The reality is that you will not be able to go back to your old eating habits, including eating unhealthy foods and eating too much. We will recommend that you eat small portions so your body can absorb more of the nutrients in the food while also allowing you to feel full. You will need to eat slowly and drink only between meals. Liquids take up space in your stomach and make you feel full. When having a meal, you need this space for food to provide your body with important vitamins and nutrients. Drinking during non-meal times is often very helpful.

What happens if I eat too much after having the surgery?

Since it is a restrictive procedure, overeating after surgery can lead to severe abdominal pain and cramps. With overeating, you may also experience vomiting or diarrhea. To avoid this, our professionals at BMI Surgery will work with you along the way as much as possible. You will have a diet plan and all the tools and information you need to be successful. It will be a challenge in the beginning, but as time goes on, our patients typically get into a really good groove of knowing what to eat, what their body needs, and how to accomplish their goals. 

Is it possible I will regain the weight?

While we do not consider gastric sleeve to be a reversible procedure, in some patients, the stomach tube or “sleeve” may stretch over time leading to late weight regain. If you do experience this, we have the option to perform a second stage operation known as a duodenal switch or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Is Gastric Sleeve Your Answer for Weight Loss?

This is not a question you can answer on your own. If you are ready to seriously look into it, schedule an appointment with Dr. Long. He, along with our team of professionals, will help you consider all the options and find the right one.

Find out more about the gastric sleeve surgery and other weight loss options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

The caring group of professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery will help you get started on your weight loss journey and stay with you every step along the way. Dr. Long and his team specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and the LAP-BAND. Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907. 

Which Surgery Helps You Lose Weight the Fastest?

Posted on August 25, 2021

weight loss surgery results

weight loss surgery results
All of our weight loss surgery options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive will help you lose weight faster than you would with diet and exercise alone. This is especially true when you consider that diet and exercise alone doesn’t work for many people, especially long-term. 

The entire process you go through with weight loss surgery — from the pre-op testing and dieting, to the surgery itself, and then the changes you make after — is designed for long-term success. Even so, many people want to know which option will help them lose weight the fastest. 

Rate of Weight Loss for Surgeries at Birmingham Minimally Invasive

While we will talk about typical rates of weight loss for our most popular surgeries, the answer really varies. It depends on each individual, including how heavy you were to start with, genetics, if you smoke, and how committed you are to your plan. 

Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery is a simple, minimally invasive procedure that’s a great option for anyone suffering from obesity and other weight-related health conditions. In addition to weight loss, these conditions may improve, and you may see results such as improved cardiovascular functioning, remission of type 2 diabetes, and joint pain relief.

To accomplish these results, the 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, when paired with proper diet and exercise, you may reduce excess weight by approximately 50 to 70% over the first one to two years after surgery. 

The LAP-BAND

With this procedure, we place the LAP-BAND near the top of the stomach where it meets the esophagus. This creates a very small pouch that empties into the larger remaining portion of the stomach. We connect the band to a port, which is located underneath the skin of the abdomen. This is how we put fluid in the band, which allows us to make the band opening larger or smaller in size, providing more or less restriction.

With the LAP-BAND, weight loss may be somewhat slower than with other options. We have to find that “happy place” where you are able to eat well but also maintain smaller portion sizes. This is where band adjustments come into play. Many patients like this feeling of control and knowing that the band can be taken out if necessary.

Gastric Bypass Surgery 

Gastric bypass patients tend to lose more weight than those who undergo LAP-BAND or gastric sleeve. It’s often a great option for heavier patients because most lose up to 80% of their excess body weight. This rapid weight loss can be very beneficial for those who have more severe health issues, such as sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and diabetes. 

For most patients, 60 to 70% of weight loss occurs within the first 6 to 8 months after surgery, allowing patients to lose weight rapidly and keep it off. Because the surgery has been performed for over 50 years, we have more long-term data to support the effectiveness. 

This rapid weight loss is possible because with gastric bypass, we are restricting your stomach’s ability to hold food. This means you will naturally eat less and feel full sooner. The average patient is able to lose and maintain their weight loss long-term. 

Find out more about the weight loss surgery options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

The caring group of professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery will help you get started on your weight loss journey and stay with you every step along the way. Dr. Long and his team specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and the LAP-BAND. Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907. 

Healthy Eating & Exercise for Kids

Posted on August 17, 2021

healthy kids

healthy kids


With the back to school season upon us, kids are having to get back to the grind of learning, taking tests, doing homework, and more. There are two simple lifestyle factors that can greatly improve how well they perform in all of these areas, in addition to helping them do it all with happy, positive attitudes. Those two things are healthy eating and regular physical activity. 

While we will talk about how these factors can be beneficial to kids of all ages, we want to be clear that we are not suggesting that children diet or over-exercise. It should not be something that you as their parent or the child is overly focused on. Rather, we are suggesting that healthy eating and exercise be naturally and seamlessly incorporated into your days so that children grow up learning lifelong healthy habits that will benefit them when they are older as well.

Good nutrition is essential to healthy brain development in children which is, of course, critical to learning. Children who exercise regularly and eat healthily are likely to perform better academically; feel better about themselves, their bodies, and their abilities; cope with stress and regulate their emotions better; and avoid feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. 

Children need a wide variety of vitamins and nutrients for growth and development and to protect them from childhood illnesses. Daily exercise also helps children build stronger muscles and bones. 

How to Improve Kids’ Eating and Activity Level

The earlier you can create healthy habits, the better. Children imitate their parents, so it’s important to set a good example. You don’t want to make kids feel bad about their weight or focus on it too much as this can create self-esteem issues that may start at a young age. But if your family has always been active and eaten healthy foods, that’s what they are likely to do as they grow up as well.

So how exactly do all this? What does it look like on a daily basis, and what should you focus on the most as kids go back to school?

Encourage more physical activity. This is often a great place to start since it will help kids work up an appetite, and then when you provide healthy snacks and meals, they will happily eat it. Aim for 60 minutes everyday of play-based activity, such as playing catch, going for walks or bike rides, doing yard work, or playing tag. 

Introduce new foods. Eating a variety of foods means that kids are more likely to get all the vitamins and nutrients they need. Shoot for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, and look for creative ways to add these in. For example, add a sliced up banana or a few sliced strawberries to the typical bowl of (not too sugary) cereal before school. You may also try foods you haven’t previously thought your kids would eat, such as salad. Kids may surprise you with what they like.

Limit screen time. Even the best parents may relax about screen time rules over the summer, but with school back in session, you may need to revisit the amount of time your kids sit still watching TV, playing on tablets, playing video games, etc. The more time they spend doing these activities, the less time they are moving, doing homework, and studying. How much screen time works for each family is an individual decision, but something to consider carefully.

Only buy healthy options. If you buy junk food, your family will eat junk food. If you buy healthy foods, that’s what they will eat instead. Your shopping cart should be full of healthy foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables and whole-grain items. We do not recommend purchasing or serving kids low-fat foods since they may contain unhealthy added ingredients, including added sugar. This may be a good time for you to get more creative with meals and snacks. Many are quick, easy, and healthy, like these!

Eat meals together. Especially on busy school mornings or evenings, it may be easier to serve children their meals at different times or in front of the TV, but make it a goal to do this as little as possible. Eating together has many important benefits related to health and nutrition, but it’s also a time to connect and communicate.

Focus on fuel. Your thought process in feeding your kids should go beyond just getting them to eat; it’s about WHAT they eat and when. Every child needs a nutritious, filling breakfast whether they have a normal school day or if they have an afternoon of sports activities. If your child has snacks throughout the day, send something that will help refuel them. A candy bar or packet of cheese crackers will not provide long-lasting energy, but a combination of fruit, nuts, cheeses, peanut butter, and many other healthy options will help keep them going longer.

Don’t forget about sleep. Healthy eating and appropriate activity is crucial, but closely tied to both of those is sleep. Nutritious meals and exercise will help them feel ready for bed at the right time, it will help them sleep soundly, and it will allow their bodies to rest and get ready to do it all over again the next day.

How Are Your Healthy Habits, Mom and Dad?

As you focus on your kids during the back to school season, don’t forget about yourself and your spouse. Any positive healthy changes you make for your kids, you can also make for yourself. We encourage you to focus on yourself too, and weight loss surgery may be something for you to consider. When it comes to diet plans, exercise plans, and the entire recovery process, we will be with you every step along the way.

Find out more about the weight loss surgery options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

The caring group of professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery will help you get started on your weight loss journey and stay with you every step along the way. Dr. Long and his team specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and the LAP-BAND. Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907. 

Weight Loss Surgery Diets: What You Can Eat & When

Posted on July 15, 2021

weight loss surgery diet

weight loss surgery diet
Many of us love to eat. It’s normal and natural to feel that way, and understandably, patients of Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery often want to know more about what they will be able to eat if they have weight loss surgery. 

There is no doubt that what and how you eat will be different, starting before you have surgery and continuing after. And we’ll be honest — it is a challenge. But the more restricted phases don’t last forever, and many people find new ways of eating that they absolutely love. 

Typical Diet Before Weight Loss Surgery

We want to note that there will be variations in your diet depending on which specific weight loss surgery you are having, whether it be gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, or the LAP-BAND. But generally speaking, this is what you can expect.

We will help you make a plan for a special diet you will need to follow before surgery. This pre-op diet is geared toward reducing the amount of fat in and around your liver to reduce the risk of complications during surgery. 

Making changes in your diet before surgery will also help you start getting used to a new way of eating. This is a lifelong change, so the sooner you start, the better. Your new eating plan may begin as soon as you are cleared for the procedure.

Guidelines are individualized for each patient and surgery type, but may include the following:

  • Eliminating or decreasing saturated fats, such as whole milk products, fatty meat, and fried food
  • Eliminating or decreasing foods that are high in carbohydrates, such as sugary desserts, pasta, potatoes, and bread
  • Eliminating high-sugar beverages, such as juice and sodas
  • Practicing portion control
  • Avoiding binge eating
  • Quitting smoking
  • Avoiding alcoholic beverages and recreational drugs
  • Not drinking beverages with meals
  • Taking a daily multivitamin
  • Taking protein supplements

With your pre-op diet, you will likely drink protein shakes and eat other high-protein, low-calorie foods that are easy to digest. As you get closer to your surgery date, you may need to follow a mostly-liquid or liquid-only diet. Based on your weight and overall health, you may be able to eat some solids during this time, such as fish, watered-down hot cereal, or soft-boiled eggs.

Typical Diet After Weight Loss Surgery

With all of our weight loss surgeries, we are reducing the size of your stomach and therefore reducing the amount of food you can eat at one time and overall. In order to allow your stomach to heal and adjust properly immediately after surgery, you will be required to follow a post-op diet plan that can be broken down into four stages. 

Liquids

Stage one begins right after surgery. During this time, you are restricted to clear liquids like water, broth, and unsweetened gelatin. This may sound like it will be challenging, but most patients experience little to no hunger the first few days after surgery. You will particularly be avoiding sugar, and carbonation, but you will consume a lot of liquids to stay hydrated. 

Protein-Rich Liquids

We will confirm when you are able to move to stage two, which is usually around five days after surgery. During this stage, you will introduce more liquids into your diet and begin drinking high protein shakes. You may experience an increase in appetite, but it is important that you stick to your diet plan and avoid solid food. Your body will not be able to handle it yet. 

Stage two food options may include: 

  • Thin broth and creamed soups (no chunks)
  • Sugar-free protein/nutrition shakes
  • Sugar-free nonfat yogurt or pudding
  • Thinned oatmeal

The goal of stage two is to make sure you are consuming the correct amount of protein and staying hydrated. You should try new foods at a slow pace and in accordance with your diet plan. Sugary liquids should still be avoided, along with carbonation, high fat options, and chunky foods. 

Pureed Soft Foods

You will become friends with your blender during this period. Once you are around two weeks post-surgery, you can begin incorporating pureed soft foods into your diet. The key here is to eat slowly and chew thoroughly. You may find that your tolerance for certain foods has changed, so you should take your time testing new options. 

At this stage, your food should be the consistency of a thick liquid or smooth paste. You should continue to avoid chunky or fatty foods, sugar, seasonings, starches, and fibrous vegetables like broccoli and asparagus.  

Stage three includes pureeing the following food items with water, skim milk, broth, or sugar-free juice: cooked vegetables, eggs, beans, lean ground meats, soft fruits, cottage cheese, plain yogurt. You will also continue drinking a lot of liquids to avoid dehydration. 

Solid Foods 

Finally, you’ll start getting back to normal, but it will be a new normal. With Dr. Long’s approval, you can begin the transition to eating soft, solid foods around four weeks after surgery. Make sure to test foods one at a time to determine what you can tolerate. 

Try to structure your meals with protein in mind. We recommend consuming around 60 grams of protein per day, which can be difficult if you fill up on other foods first. A daily protein shake, in addition to high protein foods like eggs and lean ground meat, will help you meet your recommended protein goals.

As you slowly start integrating solid foods into your diet, make sure to stick to healthy, easy-to-digest options. This includes things like chicken, fish, well-cooked vegetables, low-fat cheese, and fruit. 

Foods you should continue to avoid: 

  • Whole milk products 
  • Fried foods
  • Starchy items like pasta, white potatoes, and bread
  • Sugary drinks and snacks
  • Over-processed/packaged foods like potato chips 
  • Fibrous vegetables like celery, asparagus, and broccoli
  • Spicy or heavily seasoned foods

Once you have successfully incorporated solid foods back into your diet, it is important to continue making conscious food choices. The amount of food you eat throughout the day will be limited, so what you eat and how you eat is vital to staying on track.

Healthy Eating for a Lifetime

While it may sound impossible at the beginning of the journey, this general plan will be tailored to you individually, and it’s meant to set you up for short-term and long-term success. The diet will help you recover from surgery and transition to a way of eating that is healthy and supports your weight-loss goals. Most patients become very motivated to keep up the healthy habits they have learned, and we are confident that you will be too!

Let BMI Surgery Help You Learn New Healthy Eating Habits With Weight Loss Surgery

The caring group of professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery will help you get started on your weight loss journey and stay with you every step along the way. Dr. Long and his team specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and the LAP-BAND. Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907.