Category: Gastric Sleeve

Resolutions to lose weight for a healthier life in 2020

Posted on December 27, 2019

Making New Year’s resolutions gets a bad reputation. Some people make them, but many people don’t follow through for more than a few weeks at best. But we love the idea of making new commitments or renewing commitments as we embark on a brand new year: new beginnings, blank slates, a fresh start, and all that.

We see many patients who need to make resolutions not just to lose weight, but to start living a healthier lifestyle. A healthier lifestyle will likely involve weight loss, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But there’s more to the story.

In this blog post, we will focus on some of the reasons why it is important to make resolutions for weight loss and a healthier lifestyle, while also focusing on one really great option to help achieve this: gastric sleeve surgery.

Why focus on wellness more than weight & how to do it

Focusing just on weight loss can lead to a cycle of losing and regaining weight, low self-esteem, and too much time spent thinking about food and body image. We don’t want this for anyone. This is why focusing on overall health is often a much better mindset. What happens, though, is that focusing on health in general typically does lead to weight loss.

What can you change on a daily basis? Are you totally inactive now? Do you eat fast food every day? In both of those situations, starting with small daily changes can go a long way. Go for a 10-minute walk every single day, then slowly start working up to longer times. Resolve to cut out fast food one day at a time until you are eating out much less frequently. Taking it one day at a time often feels more doable, rather than looking at things on a larger scale by the week, month, or even year.

For those who are already on their journey to a healthier life, including those who have already had weight loss surgery, it may be harder to find achievable goals. Maybe you typically skip breakfast, but then feel awful by lunchtime and overeat. Set a goal of eating a healthy breakfast every day. Or maybe you know fish is a healthy option on your diet plan, but you don’t cook it very often. Resolve to learn a few new recipes and cook fish at least once a week. If your fruit or veggie intake is a little low, make it a goal to eat at least one of each with every single meal.

If you have serious health issues, such as hypertension or high cholesterol, we suggest focusing on improving those conditions rather than just losing weight. Again, you likely will lose weight in the process, but the shift in mindset can be a game-changer.

Ideas for wellness & weight loss resolutions

Establish or improve your workout routine. If you are currently overweight or obese, you have to start somewhere. If you are interested in weight loss surgery, a daily workout routine is part of the plan we will work with you on. For those who have had weight loss surgery, remember that there’s still work to be done to maintain a healthy weight, and a big part of that is exercising. Even if you struggle with joint or knee pain, use the New Year as an opportunity to discover the endless ways to get in a low-impact workout, or it may be time to find a new, exciting routine that you will look forward to more.
Focus on eating proper portion sizes and nutrient-dense foods. This is important for those who are preparing for weight loss surgery and those who have already had it. It’s essential to keep portion sizes smaller and loaded with nutrient-packed foods. Since you’re eating less than you used to, it’s crucial to ensure you’re getting as many nutrients as possible.
Consider getting involved in a support group. The new year may be the perfect time to join a support group. We’ve seen this be a huge motivator and predictor of long-term weight loss with our patients, and that’s why we encourage everyone to get the support they need. Whether through a Facebook support group or other online or in-person groups, there are plenty of options when it comes to finding one you enjoy being a part of.
Share your story. As you are on your journey to better health, or once you feel like to have gotten there, consider sharing your story. This may mean you share with only close family and friends, or this may mean you share it more publicly, like on our testimonial page. It can help keep you accountable, but it can also be a huge encouragement to others.
Be proud of yourself. Even when daily changes seem small, they are a big deal. When you do achieve your goals, no matter what they are, let yourself be proud. You ate breakfast today; you had fruits and veggies with every meal; you went for a 20-minute walk. Those successes are awesome, and you may find that the more small achievements you have, the more you will want to keep going. It’s this day in and day out commitment that will help you achieve the overall goal of getting healthy.

Gastric sleeve surgery — one really great option

Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery, is the most frequently performed bariatric procedure in the U.S. You may be a candidate for this procedure if your body mass index (BMI) is greater than or equal to 40 or between 30 and 40 with other medical problems, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, heart disease, and high blood pressure. The procedure, along with lifestyle modifications such as the right proportion of healthy food and exercises, can help improve your overall health and quality of life.

The surgery reduces the size and volume of your stomach to limit food intake and calorie absorption. The surgery results in a stomach that functions normally, enabling you to eat most foods, just in smaller amounts.

After losing a substantial amount of weight, most of our patients experience improvement in their overall health. When you combine weight loss surgery with other lifestyle changes, including the small daily ones, the results can be incredible.

We always encourage you to set attainable goals that you can accomplish with a positive attitude and wholehearted commitment. Losing weight and/or maintaining a healthy weight is something to be proud of, and 2020 is a fresh start to continue doing just that.

Contact Us to Learn More About Gastric Bypass Surgery

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

An in depth look at gastric sleeve surgery & alternatives

Posted on October 8, 2019

Did you know that sleeve gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery, is the most frequently performed bariatric procedure in the U.S.? It’s an option many of our patients at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery choose as well.

To qualify for weight loss surgery, your body mass index (BMI) must be greater than or equal to 40 or between 30 and 40 with other medical problems, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, heart disease, or high blood pressure. In addition to these requirements, gastric sleeve and alternatives are options for those who have not been successful losing weight through diet and exercise alone. These procedures, along with lifestyle modifications, such as the right proportion of healthy food and exercise, can help improve your overall health and quality of life.

So gastric sleeve surgery is a great solution for many, but there are other choices. Why should you choose one over the other? We will explore three common procedures in this blog post to help you learn more, and as always, our surgeon and staff will be happy to discuss with you more.

Gastric sleeve surgery explained

Gastric sleeve surgery works by changing the structure and reducing the size of your stomach. About two-thirds of your stomach is surgically removed during this procedure. You benefit from a smaller stomach which fills up more quickly. This limits the quantity of food you eat and the amount of calories absorbed by your body. The surgery results in a stomach that functions normally and enables you to eat most foods, just in smaller amounts.

Gastric sleeve surgery is a simpler procedure and helps avoid the associated risks of an intestinal bypass. It typically takes only about 30 to 45 minutes and is performed laparoscopically. This means we avoid the need for large abdominal incisions, which typically results in less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.

Considerations for gastric sleeve surgery:

Stomach tube may stretch over time, leading to late weight regain
If weight is regained, a second stage operation known as duodenal switch or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass can be performed
The procedure is not reversible
There is no malabsorption of nutrients
Not an option for patients with severe reflux disease

Gastric sleeve surgery alternative #1: LAP-BAND

In the LAP-BAND procedure, a hollow band made of special material is placed around the stomach near its upper end, creating a small pouch and a narrow passage into the larger remainder of the stomach. The band is then inflated with a salt solution. It can be tightened or loosened over time to change the size of the passage by increasing or decreasing the amount of salt solution. The entire procedure is done laparoscopically as well and induces weight loss by reducing the capacity of the stomach. This restricts the amount of food that can be consumed.

LAP-BAND is usually performed in the outpatient surgery center, and you are usually discharged the same day of the procedure.

Considerations for LAP-BAND:

Least invasive surgical option
No intestinal re-routing
No cutting or stapling of the stomach wall or bowel
Reduced pain, hospital length-of-stay, and recovery period
Lower mortality risk than other obesity surgery procedures
Low risk of nutritional deficiencies associated with gastric bypass
Reduced risk of hair loss
No “dumping syndrome” related to dietary intake restrictions

The lap band procedure is also adjustable and reversible. It allows for an individualized degree of restriction for ideal, long-term weight loss, and adjustments can be made without additional surgery. The band can also be removed, allowing the stomach and other anatomy to be restored to their original forms and functions.

While there are many benefits to LAP-BAND, it isn’t an overnight fix. We often have to work with patients to find their “happy place.” This involves finding the right fit so that you can eat freely but also maintain smaller portion sizes. This is where band adjustments come into play, which could be a process that takes a little time to perfect.

Gastric sleeve surgery alternative #2: Gastric bypass

Gastric bypass has the longest track record in the U.S., having been performed since 1967. It combines “restriction” and “malabsorption.” With restriction, we are creating a stomach pouch that holds 1 to 2 ounces. It is very effective in obtaining and maintaining long-term weight loss.

During the laparoscopic procedure, a small stomach pouch is created to restrict food intake. Next, 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 reduces the absorption of nutrients and thereby reduces calorie intake.

Gastric bypass is an inpatient procedure requiring a hospital stay of 1 to 2 nights. The surgery takes about 60 to 120 minutes.

Considerations for gastric bypass:

Rapid weight loss in the first six months
Best operation to cure diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea
Tend to lose more weight than patients after gastric band or gastric sleeve
Longer recovery time
Not considered reversible, but could be reversed if medically necessary
Staple line can leak after surgery
Minor late weight regain (10-20%) after 2 to 5 yrs
Nutritional/mineral supplements required for life

As you can see, there are advantages and disadvantages to each option, and which one is best for you will depend greatly on your individual situation. The good news is that you don’t have to figure it out alone! Our surgeon, Dr. Jay Long, is extremely experienced in working with each patient to consider their needs and issues to find the right option.

Contact us to learn more about gastric sleeve and other weight loss surgery options.

The four stages of the post-op gastric sleeve surgery diet

Posted on June 27, 2019

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Healthy food on a table in front of a doctor

THE FOUR STAGES OF THE POST-OP GASTRIC SLEEVE SURGERY DIET

Gastric sleeve surgery drastically reduces the size of your stomach, leaving it a fraction of its original size. A smaller stomach means a stricter diet. In order to allow your stomach to properly heal and adjust, you will be required to follow a post-op diet plan that can be broken down into four stages.

Stage one of the gastric sleeve diet: liquids

Stage one of the post-op gastric sleeve diet begins the first week after your surgery. During this time, you will be restricted to clear liquids like water, broth and unsweetened gelatin. This may sound challenging to follow, but most patients experience little to no hunger the first few days after surgery.

Important guidelines for stage one of the post-op diet:

Avoid Sugar – Do not consume any sugary liquids during the first week after surgery. Sugar can have negative side effects on the body and can even lead to dumping syndrome, a digestive problem that can occur after bariatric surgery, when food gets “dumped” directly from your stomach into your small intestine without being digested.

No Carbonation – It may be tempting to reach for a bubbly drink to ease your stomach after surgery, but carbonation can lead to gas and bloating and should be avoided.

Stay Hydrated – It is important to drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated during your recovery process. Just remember to take it slow and only drink small amounts at a time.

Stage two of the gastric sleeve diet: protein rich liquids

Your doctor will confirm when you are able to move onto stage two of the gastric sleeve diet. This usually takes place 5 days after surgery. During this stage, you will be allowed to 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 the diet plan you are given and avoid any solid food, as your body will not be able to handle it yet.

Stage two food options 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. New foods should be introduced slowly and in accordance with your diet plan. Sugary liquids should still be avoided, along with carbonation, high fat options and chunky foods.

Stage three of the gastric sleeve diet: pureed soft foods

It’s time to break out the blender. Once you are around two weeks out from your gastric sleeve 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 food 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 of the gastric sleeve diet includes pureeing the following food items with water, skim milk, broth or sugar-free juice:

Cooked vegetables (steamed or boiled until soft)
Eggs
Beans
Lean ground meats
Soft fruits
Cottage cheese
Plain yogurt

Remember to keep drinking liquids. It is easy to become dehydrated after gastric sleeve surgery because your body is no longer getting fluids from some of the foods you used to eat, so be diligent about your liquid intake.

Stage four of the gastric sleeve diet: solid foods

With your doctors approval, you can begin the transition to eating soft solid foods around four weeks after your 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. It is recommended that patients consume around 60 grams of protein per day, which can be difficult to do if you fill up on other foods first. A daily protein shake, on top of high protein foods like eggs and lean ground meat, can 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

Tips on how to eat long-term after gastric sleeve surgery

Once you have successfully incorporated solid foods back into your diet, it is important to continue making conscious food choices long-term. 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.

Here are a few helpful tips on how to eat long-term after gastric sleeve surgery:

Chew and eat slowly
Limit snacking throughout the day
Cut food into small pieces
Stick to small portions
Do not overeat
Avoid trans fats and fried, processed or fast foods
Try not to eat and drink at the same time

For more information about gastric sleeve surgery and the recovery and diet plan process, schedule a consultation with us!

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

Interested in Birmingham Minimally Invasive?

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

To get started fill out our form, or call today to set up a consultation. Our helpful team is ready to help you on your weight loss journey!

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Are you a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery?

Posted on May 21, 2019

Image of tape measurer with text reading gastric sleeve requirements

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is commonly performed on patients who are classified as morbidly obese and at high risk for weight-related health problems. During this laparoscopic surgery, a surgeon permanently removes 80-90% of your stomach, creating a tube or “sleeve” which can only hold a limited amount of food allowing patients to feel full and lose weight quicker. So, who is the best candidate for gastric sleeve surgery?

What are the minimum requirements for gastric sleeve surgery?

One of two basic requirements must be met to qualify for gastric sleeve surgery:

1. Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher
2. Have a BMI of 30-40 with serious weight-related health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease

BMI is a formula that calculates the ratio of your height and weight and correlates to the amount of body fat you have. On average, a BMI of 40 is equivalent to being 100 pounds overweight for men and 80 pounds overweight for women.

What to do next if you qualify for gastric sleeve surgery

Once you determine that you meet the basic requirements for gastric sleeve surgery, the next step is to decide whether or not you will use insurance to cover the cost. 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.

Most insurance companies cover bariatric surgery; however, their individual requirements may vary based on the type of surgery. With insurance, there is often a longer approval process and more requirements than private pay, so we recommend scheduling a consultation with us to learn more about your payment options.

What are some of the requirements for insurance approval of gastric sleeve surgery?

If gastric sleeve coverage is included in your insurance policy, then you will have to meet your provider’s criteria in order to obtain approval. Requirements often vary based on the provider. For example, some have significantly higher BMI requirements, but will lower the required number if lung or heart issues are also a factor.

The best thing to do is to request a list of your coverage criteria and begin collecting the necessary documentation as soon as possible. This may include proof that you have undergone a medically supervised diet program prior to surgery or a letter of medical necessity. A psychological evaluation may also be required before approval for surgery is granted.

At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we will work with you and your insurance provider to make sure you obtain all of the necessary documentation to meet your provider’s specific requirements.

What are some reasons you may not qualify for gastric sleeve surgery?

There are cases that may make you ineligible for gastric sleeve surgery. A few of these include:

- A BMI that does not meet the minimum requirements
- An anticipated pregnancy within two years
- High operative risk (i.e. severe heart disease)
- Abnormal esophagus, stomach or intestine
- Severe Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

If you do not meet the requirements for gastric sleeve surgery, there are other weight loss options like the ORBERA® gastric balloon.

Requirements for gastric sleeve surgery: Insurance or private pay?

If you are considering gastric sleeve surgery, it is important to also consider your payment options and the requirements that come with them. While most insurance companies cover bariatric surgery, it can be a lengthy process collecting all of the necessary documentation and waiting for approval to be granted. Private pay allows you to avoid the waiting game, however surgery costs will have to come out of pocket.

With our 2019 gastric sleeve price of $8,999, our goal at BMI is to make losing weight a more attainable goal for our patients. Whether you choose to pursue private pay or insurance coverage, we will work with you to help you meet the requirements so you can lose weight and start feeling great.

CONTACT US TO LEARN MORE ABOUT GASTRIC SLEEVE REQUIREMENTS

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

How much does gastric sleeve surgery cost with and without insurance?

Posted on April 25, 2019

Severe obesity affects millions of Americans and brings with it a host of potentially life-threatening health problems. Because of this, weight loss surgery is often considered the best and most effective treatment for people who are considered morbidly obese. However, insurance coverage and cost often play a major role in the decision to undergo a weight loss procedure.

If you’ve been considering Gastric Sleeve Surgery, you may be wondering what costs are associated with it and if it is covered by insurance. The following is a guide to Gastric Sleeve costs, with or without insurance, and other factors that will help you decide whether this weight loss surgery is right for you.

Factors Contributing to Gastric Sleeve Surgery 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, requiring less time spent in surgery and a shorter hospital stay in most cases. This allows it to be offered at a lower price than other weight loss surgeries.

Insurance Coverage for Gastric Sleeve Surgery

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 will cover most, if not all, of the costs of the surgical procedure for Gastric Sleeve Surgery. However, there are instances that may cause you to not be covered or denied. Because there are so many different plans, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us to discuss your options.

Paying for Gastric Sleeve Surgery Without Insurance

For those who are not covered by their insurance or choose to pay for Gastric Sleeve Surgery without using insurance, private pay is a very common option. While prices will vary among different surgeons, at Birmingham Minimally Invasive, our Gastric Sleeve Surgery starts at just $8,999, making it an affordable option for anyone looking to treat their severe obesity without breaking the bank.

Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Right for You?

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 at the most competitive prices possible. By offering Gastric Sleeve Surgery for just $8,999, we hope to help as many patients as possible lose weight and regain control of their life.

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. If you’re interested in learning more about your options, read more about Gastric Sleeve Surgery and contact us to schedule your first appointment.

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

What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery: What You Need to Know

Posted on April 25, 2019

Illustration showing the size of a stomach before and after gastric sleeve surgery

After months or years of trying to lose weight, the risks associated with obesity can start to take a toll on your body. For many people, bariatric surgery is the best and safest option to lose weight and keep it off. More than half of all bariatric surgeries performed in the US are gastric sleeve procedures.

Over the years, gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, a type of bariatric surgery, has become a popular choice among individuals considering weight loss surgery. Gastric sleeve surgery is one of the most common bariatric procedures due to its effectiveness and simplicity. Here are a few things you need to know before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, and to help you find out if you might be a good candidate.

Introduction to Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, is a type of weight loss surgery designed to help individuals with obesity achieve significant weight loss and improve their overall health. Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a popular bariatric surgery procedure that involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a narrow, sleeve-like stomach. This reduction in stomach size limits the amount of food you can eat, helping you lose weight more effectively. By opting for gastric sleeve surgery, many individuals find it easier to manage their weight and reduce obesity-related health conditions.

What is gastric sleeve surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery is a laparoscopic procedure that significantly reduces the size and alters the structure of your stomach to promote weight loss. The procedure is typically performed using laparoscopic surgery, which involves making small incisions in the upper belly. To qualify for this procedure, your body mass index (BMI) must be 40 or greater, or between 30 and 40 with other weight-related medical conditions.

During this procedure, your surgeon will create a small stomach “sleeve” by permanently removing 80-90% of your stomach, including the area containing the hunger hormone ghrelin, essentially causing your stomach to go from the shape of a football to the shape of a banana. These small incisions contribute to a faster recovery time and less post-operative discomfort. The decrease in stomach size and removal of the hunger hormone will cause you to feel less hungry and fill up more quickly, making it difficult to overeat and absorb excessive amounts of calories.

Comparison to Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery is often compared to gastric bypass surgery, another well-known bariatric surgery procedure. While both surgeries aim to help individuals achieve significant weight loss, they differ in their approach. Gastric bypass surgery involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, effectively bypassing a large portion of the stomach and small intestine. In contrast, gastric sleeve surgery involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a narrow, sleeve-like stomach. This makes gastric sleeve surgery generally less invasive than gastric bypass surgery, often resulting in a faster recovery time and fewer long-term complications. For many, the simpler nature of the gastric sleeve surgery makes it an attractive option for weight loss.

What happens during a gastric sleeve procedure?

Before surgery, you will be given a general anesthesia to deeply sedate you and prevent you from feeling any pain during the procedure. Once you are asleep, your surgeon will create five small surgical openings in your abdomen and use a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera on the end, to see inside your abdomen to perform the surgery.

Over the next 30-45 minutes, your surgeon will use small surgical instruments to divide and remove around two-thirds of your stomach. After, your stomach will resemble a long tube, joined together with a staple line, which is a critical part of the procedure.

Preparation and Eligibility

To be eligible for gastric sleeve surgery, individuals must meet specific criteria. Typically, candidates should have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or sleep apnea. Beyond these criteria, candidates must be committed to making significant lifestyle changes, including adhering to a healthy diet and regular exercise habits. Additionally, attending regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers is crucial for long-term success. Before surgery, individuals undergo a thorough evaluation, including a physical exam, laboratory tests, and a psychological assessment, to ensure they are suitable candidates for the procedure. This comprehensive preparation helps ensure the best possible outcomes for those undergoing gastric sleeve surgery.

What does a gastric sleeve diet look like?

After gastric sleeve surgery, you will be given a special diet plan to help you transition to eating with a smaller stomach. This plan begins with a clear liquid diet to help the stomach heal, and gradually incorporates solid foods.

You can expect to get most of your nutrition in the first few weeks after surgery from high-protein drinks. Once you have had more time to heal and adjust, you can begin incorporating pureed foods and eventually soft and regular foods.

Keep in mind that you will not be able to eat as much, so you will need to consciously choose foods that will help you maintain a healthy, balanced diet. Maintaining new eating habits is crucial for ensuring long-term weight loss success and preventing potential weight regain.

What are the benefits of the gastric sleeve compared to other weight loss surgeries?

Compared to other bariatric surgeries, such as gastric bypass and LAP-BAND, gastric sleeve surgery is a more straightforward procedure that typically takes less than an hour to complete. Gastric sleeve surgery is one of the most common bariatric surgery procedures due to its effectiveness and simplicity. The recovery process often goes well for many patients. Because a large portion of the stomach is removed and then stapled together, there is no need to re-route your intestines like with gastric bypass or insert a foreign body like with LAP-BAND surgery, which involves the use of a silicone device placed around the stomach. It is also typically a very affordable option for weight loss surgery.

What are some of the issues with a gastric sleeve?

With any weight loss surgery, there are risks and issues to consider. Because a large portion of the stomach is removed during gastric sleeve surgery, the procedure is not reversible. Complications can occur at the staple line, which is a critical part of the procedure. It is also not recommended for people with severe acid reflux disease, as it tends to be acid-inducing. There is also a possibility that the small stomach tube will stretch over time, which can lead to late weight gain.

In the long term, patients must adhere to a healthy diet and regular exercise to prevent weight regain. The stomach may widen over time, allowing for larger meals, which can contribute to weight regain if eating habits are not managed effectively.

The key takeaway

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE IF GASTRIC SLEEVE SURGERY IS RIGHT FOR YOU

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

3 Things that Surprise Patients the Most After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Posted on January 3, 2019

While it’s no surprise that many aspects of your life change after having gastric sleeve surgery, there are many “good surprises” our patients often tell us about. From looking at food in a whole new light to fewer cravings for unhealthy foods, here are a few things you might experience after having gastric sleeve surgery.

3 Surprises We Often Hear from Our Gastric Sleeve Patients

#1 They’re satisfied after eating only a small amount. Before having gastric sleeve surgery, patients are often concerned that they won’t feel satisfied after a meal because they’re not able to eat as much. Though this is understandable, many of our post-surgery patients tell us this isn’t a problem. While they can still eat what they’re family’s eating for dinner, they just don’t eat as much, and they’re totally satisified.

#2 They’re cravings are different, or non-existent. While many patients had cravings for unhealthy foods prior to surgery, we often hear them tell us they no longer crave those foods near as much, if at all. For many, it’s not uncommon to feel “out of sync” from eating sugary or processed foods once you’ve begun incorporating healthier foods into your diet.

#3 They look at food differently. Many who come into our office have a different outlook on food after gastric sleeve surgery. While before they may have looked to food for comfort, they now view it as a means to survive. Having a goal for each meal, whether that’s to get in protein or nutrients, makes them realize the importance of eating the right foods.

At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we work to educate our patients on the surgery itself as well as life after surgery. We want them to be as prepared as possible to ensure they’re going to truly be happy with whatever surgery they go with. At the same time, every patient is different and has their own unique experiences post-surgery, but often we find these surprises end up being good ones that contribute to their overall health and wellness.

Discuss Your Weight Loss Surgery Resolutions at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery Today

June’s Testimonial: Going to Dr. Long was the Best Decision I Ever Made

Posted on August 7, 2018

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. When I got to the point where I knew I had to do something, I literally Googled “centers of excellence for bariatric surgery,” and that’s when Dr. Long at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery came up. From there, I read a lot about Dr. Long and his practice before making the decision to attend a seminar they were holding one Saturday morning.

I liked what I heard at the seminar, so I went ahead and made an appointment for a consultation. When I went to see Dr. Long for the first time, I immediately told him I wanted to do gastric band, what I believed was the least invasive of all the weight loss surgeries. After he spent some time getting to learn more about me, my lifestyle and hobbies, he told me he just didn’t think I’d be happy with gastric band. He thought it would restrict me to the point where I wouldn’t be happy, and that it didn’t seem to suit my lifestyle. He went on to educate me in the difference between gastric band and gastric bypass while going into further detail on how the band greatly restricts what you can eat. He also said, and I’ll never forget, that though everyone is different, with gastric bypass, at some point in time, I could eat whatever my family eats – I just wouldn’t be able to eat as much.

I’m so glad I decided to do gastric bypass because Dr. Long was absolutely right. I have no regrets. None.

Prior to the surgery, Dr. Long had me go on a two-week liquid diet that I thought that would be incredibly hard. Turns out, it was actually very easy, and I didn’t have a problem with it all. To my amazement, the liquids kept me satisfied, and I was never even hungry, and during that two weeks I lost 12 pounds.

After staying in the hospital two days, I came home on a soft diet with a list of foods I could eat. Whatever was on the list, I was supposed to divide that by three. One of the things on the list was an egg, and it was amazing how long it would take me to eat a third of an egg. Truthfully, I didn’t want to eat anything and never had any food cravings. I just ate because I needed to while focusing on staying hydrated.

I kept going back to what Dr. Long said from the get-go – that I can eat whatever my family eats, just not as much. And I do. I eat whatever they eat, just a smaller portion, and I’m totally satisfied.

Of course, the surgery does different things to different people, but ever since, I haven’t craved any type of carbonated beverage and haven’t had one in four years. I literally took a sip of my husband’s Diet Coke the other day to get a piece of ice out, and it tasted like chemicals. It was terrible. It’s interesting how I use to love the things I now hate. I used to love desserts and now I can’t stand anything with sugar. I can eat two M&Ms but if I eat four, I get sick because it’s just too much sugar for my body. I’ve been like that with sugar since day one. So, of course, I’ve found a couple things that don’t agree with me, and I just don’t eat them. But that’s what I love about gastric bypass. I’m not restricted, and I can eat anything I want.

Ever since the surgery, my life has been great. I can walk up the bleachers at my grandchildren’s softball and baseball games without having to stop after every three steps. It’s wonderful.

About seven weeks ago, I even had knee replacement surgery, and I just got through walking across the sand at the beach. I mean, walking in the sand after a recent knee replacement! If I were a hundred pounds heavier, I would not have been able to do that at all. I probably couldn’t have even had the knee replacement in the first place. It’s amazing because now I can put 25 pounds worth of groceries in my arms and walk up steps. I just can’t believe how I carried a hundred extra pounds before this surgery.

Dr. Long and his staff are wonderful. I could not ask for better. I’m absolutely satisfied, and I have no regrets, except for wishing I had done this 10 years sooner.

I feel like I missed out on some things with my grandchildren because I wasn’t physically able to do the things with them that I can do now, and that’s why I want to encourage others not to wait. If you’re considering weight loss surgery, don’t waste more years of your life like I did. I wish I’d done it 10 years sooner so I could’ve benefited from it way before now. Do it, and I promise it’ll be the best decision of your life.

Go see Dr. Long. He’s not in a hurry, takes the time to explain everything to you, and he’s considerate and compassionate. He’s the greatest, and going to him was the best decision I ever made.

Lose Weight Fast with Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Posted on September 18, 2017

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

What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

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

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

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

What Are the Other Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

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

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

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