Category: Gastric Sleeve Recovery

Supporting Your Mental Health Journey After Weight Loss Surgery

Posted on May 31, 2024

A distressed woman hiding her face and holding her knees.

A distressed woman hiding her face and holding her knees.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of emotional well-being. While weight loss surgery can be a transformative journey for many, it often comes with emotional and mental health challenges. It’s important to prepare for the many changes that come with bariatric surgery before and after your visit.

In this post, we’ll explore how to manage the common emotional challenges that often come with bariatric surgery, like body image issues, changes in relationships, coping with stress, and seeking support.

Managing Body Image Issues After Bariatric Surgery

Weight loss surgery can lead to significant changes in body shape and size, which may trigger complex emotions about body image. After surgery, many people come to realize their body image struggles don’t automatically disappear.

Body image issues can range from a small annoyance with one of your features to overly obsessing over a part of your body. Some people even experience body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which is a mental health condition where a person obsesses over one or more perceived flaws of their physical appearance, and this aspect may or may not be evident to other people. BDD often causes a lot of stress and interferes with daily life.

It’s important to practice self-compassion and focus on appreciating your body for its strength and resilience. Consider seeking support from a therapist or support group specializing in body image issues to explore these feelings in a safe and understanding environment.

Changes in Relationships

Weight loss surgery can significantly affect your relationships with friends, family, and romantic partners. People in your life may have varying reactions to your transformation. Whether they offer support or express concern, these reactions can present themselves in unanticipated ways.

Successfully navigating these potential relationship changes after weight loss surgery requires open communication. Be honest about your feelings and boundaries, and encourage loved ones to do the same. Remember that healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, understanding, and acceptance, regardless of physical appearance.

Coping with Stress

The post-surgery period is a physically and emotionally challenging time for the majority of bariatric surgery patients. This often leads to excessive stress and anxiety. It is important to work with a therapist or other medical professional to develop healthy coping mechanisms and learn to manage stress effectively as you recover from the procedure and adapt to your changing body.

Coping mechanisms that can help you effectively manage the emotional toll of bariatric surgery include:

  • Mindfulness practices
  • Meditation
  • Physical activities
  • Journaling
  • Spending time in nature
  • Confiding in or leaning on people you trust

Whatever your coping mechanisms, it is vital to practice self-care to nourish your mind, body, and soul. If you are struggling to cope, never hesitate to reach out to the professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive for help.

Seeking Support

You don’t have to navigate the post-weight loss surgery journey alone. Reach out for support from friends, family, support groups, and healthcare professionals who understand and can validate your experiences.

You may want to consider joining a support group for people who have had bariatric surgery. A support group connects you with other individuals who have had weight loss surgery to share insights, challenges, and triumphs related to bariatric surgery recovery with each other. Seeking support post-surgery can be scary as it requires you to be vulnerable, but it can also play a crucial role in improving your emotional well-being.

If you need help connecting with others who have had weight-loss surgery, please contact Birmingham Minimally Invasive so that we can ensure you get the support you need.

Life After Bariatric Surgery With BMI

Managing emotional and mental health after weight loss requires a great deal of self-compassion and support. By addressing body image issues, navigating changes in relationships, coping with stress, and seeking support, you can cultivate a positive and resilient mindset on your journey toward wellness.

At Birmingham Minimally Invasive, we understand that mental health is just as important as your physical health. We ensure our patients learn to practice self-care and nurture their emotional well-being every step of the way. That’s why we provide compassionate care for our patients throughout the weight loss surgery process, from pre-op to the end of their recovery, and beyond.

Healthy and Happy Living After Weight Loss Surgery at BMI

Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery supports you by ensuring you have a clear understanding of what to expect before, during, and after your weight loss surgery, including how to manage emotional and mental health after surgery. Our compassionate team will always be here to answer all questions and concerns as they arise. 

If you have specific concerns or questions,  contact BMI for personalized support. You can call us anytime at (205) 858-1211.

National High Blood Pressure Awareness Month: Obesity 101

Posted on May 15, 2023

May is the national high blood pressure education month illustration.

Over 43% of adults in America are obese. Comparatively, nearly 47% of Americans have high blood pressure. But did you know they’re frequently connected? Not only can obesity cause insecurity and discomfort, but it can also lead to a worsening of high blood pressure, which can be life-threatening.  In fact, over 65% of people suffering from obesity fall victim to high blood pressure.

In honor of National Hypertension Awareness Month, the team at BMI Surgery is discussing everything you need to know about high blood pressure and obesity. Learn the ins and outs of obesity, high blood pressure, treatments, and more. 

What Is Obesity?

Obesity is a condition characterized by excess body fat relative to a person’s height. Obesity is often diagnosed by the BMI (body mass index) Scale, which has four categories: underweight, normal, overweight, and obese. 

Your doctor may also measure your waist circumference to inform causes and treatments, with a BMI over 30 considered obese. Obesity isn’t just a cosmetic concern but can change the way your body functions. It can cause heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and high blood pressure. 

What Is High Blood Pressure?

In honor of National High Blood Pressure Awareness Month, we’re taking a deep dive into obesity-induced high blood pressure. But first, let’s define what high blood pressure is. High blood pressure, also called hypertension, occurs when the force of your blood running through your blood vessels is too high. 

High blood pressure is known as a “silent killer” since there are usually little to no symptoms before the condition becomes severe. Hypertension can cause life-threatening problems like heart attack, coronary artery disease, and stroke. 

Can Obesity Cause Hypertension?

Obesity can cause hypertension or worsen it if you already have it. People with obesity have more fat tissue than usual, which can cause complex changes in the body in numerous ways. These can include sympathetic nervous system overactivation, insulin resistance, and kidney  and hormonal changes. 

Obesity-induced hypertension can be harder to treat and sometimes become resistant to medication. Since people with obesity often carry extra fat around their midsection, this excess weight puts pressure on the cardiovascular system. The heart must work harder to pump blood to organs, muscles, and tissues, which can quickly cause cardiovascular stress and other heart problems. 

How Is Obesity-Induced Hypertension Treated?

Medications are available to treat hypertension, but many people with obesity are resistant to their effects because of the physical changes the body undergoes when obese. Fortunately, weight loss surgery can help treat obesity-induced hypertension. With weight loss, a healthy diet, and physical exercise, your heart becomes stronger, which can lower high blood pressure. 

Weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, works by modifying your stomach size to reduce your appetite and reduce your calorie intake. There are different weight loss surgery techniques like gastric sleeve and LAP-BAND. Weight loss surgery should be combined with long-term lifestyle changes like regular exercise and a healthy diet to be successful. 

Live a Healthier & Happier Life with BMI Surgery

While obesity and high blood pressure can severely impact your health, each of these conditions is preventable and treatable. This May, we hope you join us in raising awareness about the negative  impacts of hypertension and obesity. With your help, we can lower the cases of both conditions nationwide. 

If you have obesity-induced hypertension, weight loss surgery can help! Our team of experts can create a personalized treatment plan for you so that you can lead a healthier, more fulfilled life. Our board-certified surgeon, Dr. Long, would be honored to be a part of your weight loss journey!

Interested in Learning More About Weight Loss Surgery? Call Us Today!

For over 20 years, Dr. Long and his team have performed successful weight loss surgeries. If you’re ready to begin your journey toward a healthier, happier life, don’t hesitate to contact BMI Surgery today! Call us at 205-850-1973 or contact us online!

Top 5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Weight Loss Surgeon

Posted on April 13, 2023

A woman in a white two-piece with a surgeon making surgical markings on her stomach for weight loss surgery.

If you’re considering weight loss surgery, you probably want a surgeon with a track record of success. Beyond finding a successful surgeon, you’ll want someone you feel comfortable around and who aligns with your financial and communication preferences.

As you do your own research, you may have questions about how to find a surgeon who’s the whole package—successful, personable, and affordable. With these five tips, you can narrow your search and find a weight loss surgeon who will improve your life. At BMI Surgery, we’re dedicated to helping you feel confident in your upcoming operation. Keep on reading to learn more about what makes a great weight loss surgeon!

Check Out Referrals

Perhaps the best way to find out if a weight loss surgeon is right for you is through referrals. We recommend checking with your primary care doctor, friends, family, and neighbors about weight loss surgeons they have personally used or recommend. While these referrals may not be comprehensive, they can be a great place to start when you begin your weight loss journey. Similarly, looking online for reviews can be an eye-opening experience when searching for a surgeon. Once you find a few options, you can call each office and schedule consultations with the surgeon to better determine if they’re the right fit for your needs.

Consider Experience

As you narrow down your list, we recommend considering the qualifications and experience of your weight loss surgeon. We advise only partnering with fellowship-trained weight loss surgeons and those who are board certified in surgery. Furthermore, your surgeon should have performed numerous, successful weight loss surgeries and be able to provide you with before and after examples. Your surgeon should be an expert, whether it’s gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, or another bariatric procedure.

Evaluate Pricing Options

While it may not be the most exciting thing to consider, finding a surgeon that matches your price point is vital. Depending on your insurance, you may or may not be able to find coverage for bariatric surgery. However, some practices offer loans and cash pricing options that can be helpful when planning your financial future. At BMI Surgery, we provide numerous cash pricing options so that you can live a healthier and happier life while staying within your budget! And, with our hassle-free payment offerings, you can avoid the headaches associated with insurance forms and requirements.

Assess Communication Style

Beyond your surgeon’s success stories, you want to feel comfortable and confident around your surgeon. Some questions to ponder while you meet with your potential bariatric surgeon include:

  • Do they answer your questions in a way you understand?
  • Do they stop to answer questions or concerns?
  • Do they work with you to develop a plan for your surgery?
  • Do they respect your decision-making process?
  • Do you feel comfortable speaking candidly and openly with them?

At the end of the day, your surgeon doesn’t have to be your best friend, but they should be someone who respects your thoughts and feelings.

Search for Pre & Post Operation Support

Weight loss surgery is an ongoing journey. It’s essential to find support and encouragement throughout the entire process, and look for practices that cultivate positive and meaningful preparation and recovery. Many weight loss surgery practices offer programs like nutrition prep classes, support groups, seminars, counseling, and more. Finding others who have undergone weight loss surgery is crucial for your recovery. Those who understand the procedure you’ve gone through can give you advice that can prove helpful as you prepare or recover from weight loss surgery.

We’re Your Partners in Your Weight Loss Journey

At BMI Surgery, we’re dedicated to making you feel at ease before, during, and after your surgery. Dr. Long and our team can answer any questions you may have, and work with you to formulate a plan that’s best for you. We offer numerous patient resources, including support groups and seminars, to support your physical and mental well-being.

Interested in Learning More About Weight Loss Surgery? Call Us Today!

Proudly serving Alabama, Tennessee, Texas, and Mississippi, BMI Surgery is your ultimate destination for weight loss surgery. We offer personalized solutions for a healthier, happier life. If you’re interested in scheduling a consultation with Dr. Long and his team, call us at (205) 833-6907 or online!

Gastric Sleeve FAQs: Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Safe?

Posted on April 13, 2023

A woman in a black top and blue jeans holding out the jeans' waistband illustrating weight loss.

If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery, you probably have numerous questions about the before, during, and after. Gastric sleeve is a type of bariatric surgery designed to help you lose weight and improve your quality of life. At BMI Surgery, we always recommend our patients research, evaluate, and ask questions before gastric sleeve so that they can make an informed decision they’re proud of.

As you begin your journey towards gastric sleeve surgery, our team answers your frequently asked questions. From recovery time to post-operative diet and alcohol consumption, our weight loss surgeons answer all your pressing inquiries. If you have any other questions or are ready to schedule a gastric sleeve consultation, contact our BMI Surgery today!

How long does gastric sleeve surgery take?

Gastric sleeve, also called sleeve gastrectomy, is typically a quick procedure. From start to finish, the entire process usually takes less than an hour. Once you’re under general anesthesia, the actual procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete.

Is gastric sleeve safe?

Gastric sleeve surgery is one of the safest elective surgery procedures. The operation is minimally invasive, which reduces the risk of severe bleeding and discomfort. Furthermore, the health ailments that accompany obesity, like sleep apnea, heart disease, and high blood pressure, are usually improved after surgery.

Most patients lose upwards of 50% of their excess body weight, making weight loss surgery well worth it for most patients. As with all surgeries, some risk is involved, and we recommend you speak with your weight loss surgeon about potential side effects.

How does gastric sleeve work?

Gastric sleeve is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laparoscopic approach, which means the surgeon can use smaller incisions and more precision movements inside your abdomen. The weight loss surgeon will make five small incisions across your abdomen and using the laparoscope and other surgical instruments, will remove a portion of your stomach.

With these tools, your surgeon will remove approximately 80% of your stomach and close the remaining portion. As its name suggests, your stomach will resemble a sleeve, or banana-shape, to promote the ingestion of fewer calories and reduced hunger cues.

What should I eat after gastric sleeve?

Right after surgery, you’ll want to follow a liquid diet, only drinking clear liquids, like water and broth. After a few days, you can add other beverages to your diet, like unsweet tea, milk, and coffee. You can begin eating strained and pureed foods like cottage cheese, fruits, and lean ground meat a few weeks post-operation. It’s essential to make sure there are no solid pieces of food in your meals during this time since your stomach is still healing.

Then, after a follow-up visit and with the doctor’s approval, you can begin to eat soft and solid foods, chewing each bite thoroughly to make digestion easier. At BMI Surgery, we’re with you every step of the way. If you have questions about what you should or shouldn’t eat after gastric sleeve, don’t hesitate to contact our team of experts.

What is the average gastric sleeve recovery time?

After gastric sleeve surgery, you’ll most likely be able to go home the day of the procedure. The average gastric sleeve recovery time varies based on each body type, but most people easily return to their normal activities a few days after the operation.

Many patients can return to work as early as 3 days after gastric sleeve, but we don’t want you lifting more than 10 pounds for 4 weeks after surgery. It’s important not to push yourself too hard and be patient with yourself during the recovery process.

Do I need to exercise after gastric sleeve surgery?

The weight loss team at BMI encourages you to exercise as soon as possible after gastric sleeve, but we don’t want you lifting more than 10 pounds for 4 weeks after surgery. We recommend brief walks initially and then transitioning to cardiovascular exercises like stairs or cycling as soon as you feel like it.

After 4 weeks, you can add weight training into your routine, but be sure not to overdo it. While it is vital for your physical and mental well-being, exercising too vigorously too soon can cause complications, so make sure you follow your doctor’s recommendations thoroughly.

Can I drink alcohol after gastric sleeve?

Once you have completed your gastric sleeve procedure, we recommend avoiding alcohol for at least six months. Don’t worry, though…most patients can slowly reintroduce alcoholic beverages after the six-month mark. Drinking alcohol can deplete your body’s glycogen levels, which can lower your blood sugar and lead to blurred vision, numbness, and drowsiness. Also, alcohol is considered “empty” calories and will make weight loss more difficult.

Be mindful as you start drinking again, and check in with yourself after each drink to see how you’re feeling. Since your stomach is much smaller than before, you may find you become inebriated more quickly after weight loss surgery.

Feel Your Best for Years to Come with BMI Surgery

After gastric sleeve surgery, you can live a healthier and happier life! If you have any questions about gastric sleeve surgery or want to learn more about gastric sleeve at BMI Surgery, don’t hesitate to reach out. With years of experience, Dr. Long and his team are ready to help you improve your mental and physical well-being.

Your Experts in Weight Loss Surgery: BMI Surgery

Are you interested in learning more about gastric sleeve? At BMI Surgery, we can help you lose weight and lead a happier, healthier life. Call us at (205) 858-1211 or contact us online to learn more about weight loss surgery today!

Can Your Stomach Stretch After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Posted on October 15, 2022

A female holding up a large pair of pants after weight loss surgery, illustrating that she’s lost weight.

Stomach Stretch After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Weight loss surgery has helped thousands of people achieve their goals, but it’s not a small commitment! You have to plan, take time off work, rest, and learn a new way of taking care of yourself & your health… So it’s totally normal to think, well, why go through this and invest my time & money if it’s not going to be effective?

Well, reader! In this blog, our team at BMI Surgery will answer all your questions about your stomach stretching and why it may happen so, you can feel confident as you work to achieve your weight loss goals.

What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery works by changing the structure of the stomach. The surgeon will reduce its size by about two-thirds, minimizing the quantity of food you can eat and the number of calories absorbed by your body.

The surgery is minimally invasive. Gastric sleeve, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is performed laparoscopically, which means smaller incisions and generally less recovery time compared to traditional surgery.

The FDA-approved procedure is effective and requires little downtime, so there’s no surprise it’s one of the most popular weight loss surgeries in US.

Will My Stomach Stretch After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Most often, your stomach will stretch after gastric sleeve surgery. But before you panic, it’s entirely normal for your stomach to expand a little after surgery. Our stomachs naturally stretch as we eat, which won’t change after a gastric sleeve procedure. After digestion, the stomach will contract to its original shape and size.

The problem may come if we overeat. Once your stomach is full, your body will alert you, so you will stop consuming food. But, if we overeat, the stomach will stretch to make room for the extra food. If this happens rarely, the stomach will still shrink after digestion. But if overeating happens often, the stomach can permanently stretch out, and the body can confuse fullness signals as hunger, which may lead to weight gain.

How Can I Avoid My Stomach Stretching After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

You can avoid stretching your stomach after gastric sleeve surgery in various ways. Most importantly, don’t be too hard on yourself. If you overeat a meal or two, don’t be so discouraged that it ruins your efforts. Instead, acknowledge what happened, brainstorm ways to avoid it next time, and plan your next healthy meal.

Some of our tips to avoid a stretched stomach include:

  • Limit volume, not foods or food groups: If you restrict yourself from certain foods, like sweets or carbs, you may end up eating more on accident. Allow yourself to have your favorite foods in moderation.
  • Eat small snacks in between meals if you feel hungry.
  • Plan portioned, healthy meals in advance to help you stay on track, especially if you have a busy schedule.
  • Avoid drinking beverages during your meals. If you drink throughout your meal, you may fill up on fluids instead of nutritious foods. We recommend drinking before and after your meals, but not during.

Find Support & Expert Advice After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Don’t feel like you’re alone on your weight loss journey! We understand that it can be unsettling, knowing you could impact your stomach’s size. That’s why our team at BMI Surgery is dedicated to your overall well-being–from the beginning to the end of your weight loss journey. Our team of experts at BMI Surgery team has years of experience helping people achieve and maintain their weight loss goals.

Begin Your Weight Loss Journey at BMI Surgery in Birmingham, AL

Discover your weight loss surgery options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery. With many years of experience, our team provides personalized and quality care to help you meet your goals. Call us at 205-850-1972 or contact us online to learn more about how to get started on your weight loss journey and improve your quality of life!

How Much Fiber Do You Need After Weight Loss Surgery?

Posted on October 15, 2022

Athletic girl with gym clothes eats salad at a table

Athletic girl with gym clothes eats salad at a table

Making the commitment to change your life with weight loss surgery is no easy feat. And after the surgery, you’ve worked hard to recover. A few simple lifestyle choices can make a real difference when maintaining your weight loss. Most importantly, following the proper diet is imperative for long-lasting results to avoid letting your hard work go to waste.

Feel confident about your new weight loss, and keep the pounds off for good by incorporating fiber into your diet with these tips and tricks from Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

What Is Fiber?

Fiber occurs naturally in plant foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, and nuts. The body can’t fully break down natural fiber, causing it to slow down digestion and absorb water. There are two types of dietary fiber, including soluble and insoluble fiber.

Soluble fibers dissolve in water and slow down the digestion process. Some common examples of foods high in soluble fiber include

  • Oatmeal
  • Beans
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Blueberries
  • Avocado

On the other hand, insoluble fibers aren’t dissolved in water and help move food and waste through your GI tract. Some common examples of foods high in insoluble fiber include

  • Celery
  • Whole wheat bread
  • Cauliflower
  • Nuts
  • Potatoes

While soluble and insoluble fibers are absorbed and broken down differently by the body, they are both important to incorporate into your diet after weight loss surgery.

Why Is Fiber Important?

Incorporating fiber into your diet is crucial to feel full longer, slow digestion, and lower cholesterol levels. Since this nutrient takes much longer to digest compared to other foods, it can stabilize blood sugar levels and make you feel satisfied for longer. And fiber intake helps improve bowel regularity, which can keep your digestive system healthy and help those suffering from constipation.

How Much Fiber Do I Need After Weight Loss Surgery?

Most people need anywhere from 25-35 grams of fiber per day after weight loss surgery. You may need more or less depending on your gender, age, weight, and other genetic factors. Fiber is best absorbed in foods, so we recommend consuming foods that are naturally high in fiber, rather than fortified with fiber, which is overly processed.

If you cannot absorb enough fiber, supplements are available to help your body receive the nutrients it needs. We advise consulting a dietician or your weight loss specialist about specific numbers and recommendations for your body after weight loss surgery.

How Can I Add More Fiber to My Diet?

Slowly add fiber to your diet if you don’t typically consume enough. Too much fiber can cause abdominal discomfort and bloating since your digestive system isn’t used to it yet. Once you start adding fiber into your regime, drink water throughout the day to aid digestion. And opt to add fiber into your meals throughout the day, and not all in one sitting for optimal results.

Some tips for adding fiber to your diet include

  • Add chia, flax, or hemp seeds to shakes, oatmeal, or yogurt
  • Swap brown rice for white rice
  • Snack on crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery
  • Top desserts or oatmeal with berries
  • Opt for whole fruits instead of fruit juice

Customized Follow-Up Care

Fiber is essential for weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery. It can help you absorb nutrients, feel full for longer, and aid in the removal of excess waste from the body. At Birmingham Minimally Invasive surgery, our specialists can provide customized dietary plans and follow-ups to ensure you get all the benefits from fiber consumption. From the beginning of your weight loss journey to the end, our BMI Surgery team can help you achieve and maintain your goals.

Contact BMI Surgery to Get Started on Your Weight Loss Journey

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. Contact us online or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-850-1973.

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. 

How to eat after weight loss surgery: avoiding dumping syndrome

Posted on August 24, 2020

dumping syndrome

dumping syndrome
When it comes to weight loss surgery, there is something important that everyone should understand. You will not be successful if you do not change the way you eat. Gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and LAP-BAND can help set you up for successful weight loss, but then there’s more work to do.

It is absolutely a challenge though. You can expect to be on a liquid diet one to two weeks prior to weight loss surgery depending on your BMI, and then again, depending on the procedure you have, for a week or two after. When you’re re-introducing solid foods into your diet after about four weeks, there’s definitely a learning curve. 

Our goal is to provide as much education as possible, and this includes information about a condition we want to avoid: dumping syndrome.

What is dumping syndrome?

Dumping syndrome is a condition that can develop after having surgery to remove all or part of your stomach. It can also occur after surgery to bypass your stomach. You may hear this condition called “rapid gastric emptying,” which describes what can happen pretty well. Food, especially sugar, moves from your stomach into your small bowel too quickly.

Most people with dumping syndrome develop signs and symptoms, such as abdominal cramps and diarrhea, 10 to 30 minutes after eating. However, symptoms may occur one to three hours after eating, and some people have both early and late symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of dumping syndrome might include:

  • Feeling bloated or too full after eating
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Diarrhea
  • Flushing
  • Dizziness/lightheadedness
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Sweating
  • Weakness

Avoiding dumping syndrome

We can help prevent dumping syndrome by changing what you eat and how you eat after surgery, and this will be one of our main goals with your diet plan. Changes might include eating smaller meals and limiting high-sugar foods.

Everyone’s different, but after you have weight loss surgery, there are a few rules that will make things easier when it’s time to introduce soft and solid foods. Here are three main considerations that will make you much less likely to experience dumping syndrome or get sick from overeating:

  1. Expect to eat only three or four bites before you feel full. Patients are always very surprised that they feel full after just three or four bites. Eating even one bite too many may be too much, and you could feel sick after that extra bite. Remember that you can save your meal and come back to it when you get hungry later.
  2. Chew your food to an applesauce consistency before you swallow. After a while it will get much easier to eat and get things down without any issues, but in the beginning, chewing thoroughly and taking it slow is very important. It may sound silly and unnecessary, but it really matters when you’re eating solid food again for the first time in weeks. By chewing your food to an applesauce consistency, you’re ensuring that the food goes down more easily and doesn’t get stuck. 
  3. Don’t eat and drink at the same time. There are two reasons for this. First, as mentioned above, you can only eat three or four bites at a time. We want you to focus on these bites so you get the nutrients you need, especially protein. Protein really helps you heal after surgery. So if you’re only able to get in three bites, you don’t want to fill your now smaller stomach up with fluids. Plan on drinking about thirty minutes later, once your food is digested.

Not drinking when you eat is especially important in avoiding dumping syndrome. Why? You’re chewing your food to an applesauce consistency. Now imagine applesauce in your stomach. Then, let’s say you pour water on top of that applesauce. That’s going to thin the applesauce out and cause it to move through your body much more quickly. When this happens, it might make you a little bit nauseous, or you may have to run to the restroom all of a sudden. You’re not staying full as long because that water is just pushing all that food through, and it’s like you never even ate.

Following these three tips will help you avoid scenarios such as this. It may sound daunting, but you will learn how to eat enough food without feeling sick or experiencing dumping syndrome. It can be hard at first, but as time goes on, you’ll learn your body and know exactly what it takes to stay satisfied and healthy.  

Gastric sleeve surgery cost: what’s included & what’s not

Posted on April 9, 2020

gastric sleeve cost

magnifying glass over a dollar sign
Gastric sleeve surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that can help you lose weight and keep it off. It is a very popular procedure at Birmingham Minimally Invasive for many reasons. One big advantage is that we perform gastric sleeve laparoscopically, which means there is a shorter recovery time than with other bariatric surgeries, allowing you to resume your normal daily life sooner. 

There is another big advantage too, and that is the cost. Our price at BMI Surgery is $8,999. This is the best price you will find in our area because our goal is to make losing weight more attainable for you. Whether you choose to pursue private pay or insurance coverage, we will help you meet the requirements so you can lose weight and start feeling great.

Let’s look a little more closely at what’s involved in the cost of gastric sleeve — what you get, what you don’t get, and how people approach their payments.

Factors contributing to gastric sleeve costs

Bariatric surgery prices vary based on type, level of invasiveness, and where you choose to have your surgery done. 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.

Gastric sleeve cost: what’s included & what’s not at BMI

Our $8,999 cash pricing includes:

  • Pre-operative testing with blood work and EKG, if necessary
  • Surgeon fee for the procedure
  • Anesthesiologist fee
  • Post-operative office visits for 90 days
  • Surgery center fee (Unfortunately, not all patients will be candidates for outpatient surgery. If the procedure has to be performed in the hospital, the total price will be $12,800, and this cost will cover a one-night stay in the hospital.)
  • Monthly support group meetings

Pricing does not include:

  • Pre-operative office visit, which is $195
  • Pre-operative nutrition evaluation/education and postoperative nutrition followup, which is $80 in total
  • Post-operative office visits at 6 months and yearly, which are $125 per visit

Paying for gastric sleeve surgery: insurance or out of pocket?

Obesity is officially recognized as a disease by the American Medical Association. The health risks associated with it are so high that many insurance plans cover most, if not all, of the costs for gastric sleeve surgery. However, there are instances in which coverage may be denied. 

When insurance does cover the surgery, 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 about seven 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. 

Making the right choice

At BMI Surgery, we know there are many factors that go into your decision to undergo a weight loss procedure like gastric sleeve surgery. Our goal is to provide the latest surgical procedures at a state-of-the-art facility and at the most competitive prices possible. By offering gastric sleeve surgery for just $8,999, we hope to help many patients lose weight and regain control of their life.

Contact Us to Learn More About Gastric Sleeve Surgery Costs

Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery is a caring group of professionals who specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery. We are so proud of our pricing that we publish the costs right on the front page of our website! We work with our patients to make the process as simple as possible and determine the best payment options on a case-by-case basis. Give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907. 

 

Is what you’ve heard true? Gastric sleeve myths

Posted on March 8, 2020

gastric sleeve myths

gastric sleeve myths

Gastric sleeve surgery, also called sleeve gastrectomy, is one of the most common procedures we perform at Birmingham Minimally Invasive. Many people have embraced the benefits of this option and found it to be the best fit for them. 

Of course, there is plenty of misinformation out there, and some people have misconceptions about what sleeve surgery is, what the surgery is like, and what it’s like after surgery is complete. 

Because we want you to be as educated as possible about this option and others, we will debunk a few common misconceptions and myths about gastric sleeve surgery in this blog post.

Common myths & misconceptions about gastric sleeve surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery takes a long time, as does recovery.

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.

You will change my anatomy.

With this surgery option, we do not re-route your digestive anatomy. We leave the pyloric portion of your stomach intact to help avoid dumping syndrome (rapid gastric emptying causing cramps, nausea, and diarrhea). Overall, gastric sleeve is a simple procedure that helps avoid the associated risks of an intestinal bypass. It also avoids the use of foreign materials, such as with a gastric banding procedure.

My body won’t be able to absorb nutrients properly after surgery.

There is no malabsorption of nutrients with gastric sleeve. The surgery reduces the size and volume of your stomach to limit food/calorie intake.. The surgery results in a stomach that functions normally, enabling you to eat most foods and for your body to absorb nutrients after the procedure.

I will be able to eat anything after surgery.

This is true to some extent once you are in the much later stages of recovery. However, initially, you will go through the five stages of the gastric sleeve post-op diet, which includes liquids, protein-rich liquids, pureed solid foods, and solid foods. Once you have successfully incorporated solid foods back into your diet, it is important to continue making conscious food choices long-term. You will not be able to eat anything and everything. 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 and healthy.

I will be fully recovered within a few days after gastric sleeve 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 one to two 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 two to three weeks for incisions to heal and six to eight 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.

My Insurance will not cover the surgery.

Most insurance companies cover bariatric surgery, but their individual requirements may vary based on the type of surgery. If gastric sleeve coverage is included in your insurance policy, you will have to meet your provider’s criteria in order to obtain approval. Requirements often vary based on the provider. You can contact your provider to see if gastric sleeve is covered under your plan, and, from there, you can request more information about their coverage criteria and required documentation.

There’s no way I can pay out of pocket.

Gastric sleeve surgery is considered one of the less invasive weight loss procedures, requiring less time spent in 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. For those who are not covered by their insurance or choose to pay without using insurance, private pay is a very common option. While prices vary among different surgeons, at Birmingham Minimally Invasive, our gastric sleeve surgery is $8,999, making it an affordable option for many patients.

I won’t be able to have any other weight loss procedures after having the sleeve.

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.

We hope this clears up any confusion about gastric sleeve surgery. It is an excellent solution for many people, and if you are interested in weight loss surgery, we look forward to working with you to find out if this option or another is right for you.