Category: Obesity

Partners in Care – BMI’s Relationship With St. Vincent’s Hospital

Posted on September 3, 2024

A high-rise urban hospital building with a large “H” on the side with a cloudy blue sky in the background. Home to a bariatric surgical center.

A high-rise urban hospital building with a large “H” on the side with a cloudy blue sky in the background. Home to a bariatric surgical center.

Choosing where to have surgery, especially for weight loss, is a major decision that requires a lot of research and consideration. You want to know that your safety and comfort will be prioritized. With 63% of all bariatric procedures in the United States performed in outpatient settings, you may think that you do not need the resources of a hospital in this situation. 

However, choosing a bariatric surgical center with a connection to a hospital can provide peace of mind, knowing you have extra support in an emergency situation. Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery is proud to have such a partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham, AL. Below, we highlight the numerous benefits this relationship provides to our patients.

Benefits of Choosing a Surgical Center Connected to a Hospital

Along with additional support in the event of an emergency, choosing a bariatric surgical center connected to a hospital offers a variety of benefits, which we discuss below. Please note that your personal risks and benefits may vary. Your surgeon will discuss these with you as part of your initial consultation for your procedure. 

1. Education & Training

To better serve our patients, the team at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery participates in ongoing education on various weight loss procedures and topics. Much of this education has come from our relationship with St. Vincent’s Hospital. This has allowed us to offer seminars to other providers to help them better understand the needs of patients seeking bariatric care. 

Our partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital has also allowed us to provide educational programming and informative resources, such as online nutrition classes and support groups, to our current and prospective patients in Birmingham, AL. By providing educational resources on weight-related topics, we empower patients to make more well-informed decisions regarding their care.

2. More Customized Care

Each patient is unique, so we customize their care to meet their needs. Each procedure starts with an initial consultation, where we discuss the patient’s desired outcome. Then, we create a care plan based on this conversation. Sometimes, that involves the support of partners outside of our surgical center.

In the case of patients with extremely high BMIs or those who require more invasive procedures, like revisional weight loss surgery, we recommend they have their surgery at St. Vincent’s Hospital. However, we will continue to support the patient by providing any necessary referrals and follow-up appointments. 

3. Emergency Assistance

Like with any surgical procedure, bariatric surgery comes with a risk of complications. While most procedures can be done on an outpatient basis, a partnership with a hospital can provide peace of mind. Often, these complications require support beyond what is available at the surgical center. 

In the event of an emergency, a patient can be easily transferred to a hospital for additional care. Most patients do not experience these issues during bariatric surgery, though your individual risks may vary. Your surgeon can discuss these with you at your initial consultation before your procedure.

4. Increased Affordability

While some insurance policies cover bariatric surgery, many do not, which can make accessing this type of care costly. Through hospital partnerships, bariatric surgical centers like BMI can negotiate more affordable rates for their patients. 

This is how BMI is able to offer one of the lowest prices for a gastric sleeve in the United States. We also offer financing options for patients who qualify. If you are in need of such assistance, please inquire about it at your initial consultation. 

5. Consistent Care

Many hospitals have primary care clinics that can refer patients to surgical centers like BMI for bariatric treatment. Through a relationship with one of these hospitals, surgical centers can easily access patient records to provide more consistent care. 

Primary care physicians also have easier access to their patients’ records from the surgical center, allowing them to provide the necessary follow-up care. This saves patients the time and hassle of obtaining records and sharing them with providers. 

Find the Right Bariatric Surgical Center in Alabama

The decision to have weight loss surgery should not be taken lightly. This includes the choice of where to have the procedure done. Choosing a bariatric surgical center that partners with a local hospital, like Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, offers a variety of benefits. To learn more about our bariatric surgical center and its partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Learn More About BMI’s Partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital

Finding the right bariatric surgical center to help you reach your weight loss goals can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery’s partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital provides you with the options you need for your bariatric treatment. Contact us to learn more about this partnership or any of the procedures we offer at (205) 858-1211.

Why Not Everyone Can Lose Weight with Diet & Exercise Alone

Posted on August 15, 2024

A heart-shaped bowl of produce on a table surrounded by a glass, weights, sneakers, a stethoscope, and a prescription script.

A heart-shaped bowl of produce on a table surrounded by a glass, weights, sneakers, a stethoscope, and a prescription script.

Losing weight and keeping it off can be challenging. While diet and exercise are important to maintaining a healthy weight, they may not be effective for everyone. Today, there are many options available to those looking to lose weight. The bariatric surgeons at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery are here to explore these options and how they can help you achieve your goals.

What Are My Options for Weight Loss? 

Starting a weight loss program is a common experience, with half of American adults attempting to lose weight in the past year alone. That doesn’t mean that it can’t be challenging. With so many options to choose from, you may not know where to start. Below, we discuss some common methods individuals use to lose weight. 

Diet 

Eating a healthy diet is an essential first step in any weight loss journey. Reducing the number of calories you consume, along with choosing healthier options, can help you kickstart your journey. If you’re not sure how to start eating healthier, consider signing up for a nutrition class. You will learn about the health benefits of certain foods and how to prepare them in a way that is both nutritious and delicious. 

Diet is especially important for those who have had weight loss surgery, like a gastric sleeve. The nature of some of these procedures requires you to modify your eating habits to avoid regaining any weight you may have lost. You may need to eat smaller portions or different foods. Your bariatric surgeon can provide you with a detailed diet plan to help you maximize the weight loss benefits of your procedure. 

Exercise

Both the number of calories you consume and the amount you use are important to consider when trying to lose weight. You want to burn more calories than you consume. Exercise can help you to do that. However, it is not always effective on its own and should be combined with other methods, like a healthy diet. 

If you’ve had weight loss surgery, exercise can help you maximize the benefits provided by your procedure. Starting a fitness regimen can begin soon after your surgery with walking or other gentle exercises. Your bariatric surgeon can help you to determine the amount and types of activities you can safely partake in. 

Medication

While still fairly new, weight loss medications like Ozempic have been proven to be effective for those looking to lose a significant amount of weight. They are recommended for individuals with a BMI over 30. Like any medication, there is a risk of side effects. You may also need to follow a special diet and exercise plan while taking the medication. Your doctor can help you to determine if this option is right for you. 

Bariatric Surgery

Although you should attempt to lose weight through non-surgical methods first, sometimes, surgery may be the only option to help you reach your goals. If that is the case, there are a variety of different surgical procedures available to help you lose weight, including:

Gastric Sleeve

A gastric sleeve, or sleeve gastrectomy, works by changing the size and structure of your stomach in order to limit the amount of calories you can consume from food.

Gastric Bypass

A gastric bypass involves creating a small stomach pouch to which a section of the small intestine is attached to reduce the absorption of nutrients and calorie intake.

LAP-Band

A LAP-Band is a device that is placed around part of your stomach to reduce its capacity and, therefore, the amount of food that you can consume. 

Gastric Balloon

A gastric balloon is a device placed into the stomach to help you feel fuller faster. Due to its temporary nature, it is a less invasive option compared to other procedures.

Regardless of which procedure you choose, surgery is only recommended for those with a BMI over 30 or who have other health concerns. While surgical options are very effective, you may regain weight over time and require revisional weight loss surgery. A consultation with a bariatric surgeon, like those at BMI, can help you explore your options.

Discover Effective Weight Loss Solutions at BMI

With so many options available for weight loss today, you may be wondering which one is best. The team at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery is here to help you explore these options and select the best one for your needs. To get started on your weight loss journey, contact us at (205) 858-1211. 

Explore Your Options for Weight Loss at BMI

When you want weight loss solutions that are safe and effective, look no further than Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery. We offer a variety of both surgical and non-surgical options to our patients to help them reach their weight loss goals. To explore these options, contact us to schedule a consultation at (205) 858-1211.

Losing the Weight & Losing the Stigma: A Weight Loss Revolution

Posted on July 1, 2024

A white scale and a yellow measuring tape on a plain background.

A white scale and a yellow measuring tape on a plain background.

Weight is a topic that is still heavily stigmatized in modern society. As a result, many people are not seeking the treatment they need for obesity and other health conditions. It is estimated that 53% of people who are overweight have reported that their own physicians have made inappropriate comments about their weight. 

At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, our team specializes in weight loss, so we know how to handle conversations about weight with compassion and empathy. We understand our patients have many physical and emotional needs, so we do all we can to meet them, including reducing the stigma related to weight.

What is Weight-Related Stigma?

Weight stigma consists of discriminatory attitudes and actions taken towards individuals due to their weight. As a result, individuals who face weight stigma have lower self-esteem and confidence, which can lead to mental health issues like depression. It stems from societal beliefs that perceive those who are overweight as lacking willpower, having poor moral character, and other negative qualities. 

The Impact of Weight-Related Stigma on Weight Loss

While some argue stigmatization will motivate individuals to lose weight, the reality is exactly the opposite. Obesity affects people from all walks of life. These individuals are often motivated to improve their health and appearance through weight loss. However, they find the stigma around weight limits them. They fear judgment from friends, family, and even their own physicians, so they do not seek the care needed.

How to Reduce Weight-Related Stigma in Healthcare Settings

Physicians and surgeons, like those at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, hold a great deal of responsibility in reducing the stigma around weight. In order to best serve our patients, we take these steps to reduce weight stigma:

1. Education

At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, our team participates in ongoing education to learn the best ways to handle various weight loss procedures and topics. As a result, we’ve been able to improve patient care by providing a variety of options for weight loss while discussing their weight in a nonjudgmental manner. 

As part of our commitment to reducing weight stigma in healthcare, we offer seminars to other providers to help them better understand the needs of patients seeking treatment for weight-related concerns. We partner with St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham, AL, to provide this programming to the community. 

Along with educating other healthcare providers, we provide informative resources like online nutrition classes and support groups to our patients. By learning all they can about weight-related issues, patients can reduce the stigma around this topic by having conversations about it from a well-informed perspective. 

2. Using Person-First Language

In our communications with patients, we use person-first language to reduce stigma. For example, we refer to patients who are obese as “people with obesity” rather than “obese people.” This allows patients to feel like their condition is being acknowledged by their doctor while not letting it define them as a person. 

3. Customized Care

Understanding that each patient is unique, we customize their care to meet their needs. Each treatment starts with an initial consultation where we discuss the patient’s desired outcome and the best way to reach it. Then, we create a care plan based on this conversation. We may use a variety of non-surgical and surgical methods to help them achieve their goals. 

Lose Weight Without the Stigma of BMI

Don’t let stigma hold you back from losing weight. Working with a compassionate healthcare team specializing in weight loss, like the one at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, can help you achieve your goals faster and without judgment. To get started on your weight loss journey, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Achieve Stigma-Free Weight Loss at BMI

Regardless of your weight loss goals, you can achieve them without judgment or stigma at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery. If you have specific concerns or questions about our weight loss procedures, contact us for personalized support at (205) 858-1211.

Intuitive Eating 101: Improve Mental & Physical Wellness

Posted on December 18, 2023

Intuitive Eating

What is Intuitive Eating? 

An estimated 45 million Americans go on a diet each year, which shows just how important weight loss is to the average person in the US. In a world dominated by fad diets, weight loss injections, and immediate gratification, it can be challenging to have a healthy relationship with the way you eat. 

If you’ve attempted all the latest dieting trends, it’s time to release yourself from the pressures of diet culture and prioritize your well-being and health over your waist size. That’s where intuitive eating comes into play.

With intuitive eating, you can pursue a long-term solution that will leave you full and happy. Intuitive dieting also goes hand in hand with gastric bypass and weight loss surgery. Let’s explore what intuitive eating entails and how it can revolutionize how we perceive and engage with our meals.

How to Eat Intuitively 

At its core, intuitive eating is about reconnecting with your body’s natural cues and signals. It involves: 

  • Listening to your hunger and fullness
  • Embracing satisfaction
  • Rejecting the rigid rules of diet culture. 

Intuitive eating is what some call a non-diet–it’s a mindset that encourages a healthy relationship with food, free from the constraints of traditional dieting.

The 10 Principles of Intuitive Eating:

Intuitive eating encourages you to trust your body and foster a more mindful approach to eating. The principles of intuitive eating include:

1. Reject the Diet Mentality

Letting go of the diet mentality means abandoning the idea that there’s a one-size-fits-all solution to health and wellness. By acknowledging that diets often lead to short-term results and long-term frustration, you can pave the way for a more sustainable and nourishing relationship with food.

2. Honor Your Hunger

Instead of suppressing hunger or adhering to strict eating schedules, learn to trust your body and eat when you’re genuinely hungry, promoting a healthier relationship with food.

3. Make Peace With Food

Banishing the concept of “good” and “bad” foods is crucial in intuitive eating. By allowing yourself to enjoy all foods in moderation, guilt, and shame are removed from the eating equation. 

4. Challenge the Food Police

The food police, representing internalized thoughts or external judgments about what is “right” or “wrong” to eat, can be silenced through intuitive eating. By challenging and dismissing these thoughts, you can regain control over your eating habits and preferences.

5. Discover the Satisfaction Factor

By paying attention to flavors, textures, and the overall enjoyment of meals, you can foster a sense of satisfaction beyond mere nutritional content.

6. Feel Your Fullness

Learning to recognize and respect fullness cues is a cornerstone of intuitive eating. By eating until comfortably satisfied, you can avoid overeating and better attune yourself to your body’s needs.

7. Cope with Your Emotions with Kindness

Instead of turning to food as a coping mechanism, you should explore alternative ways to manage emotions, promoting a more balanced and mindful approach to well-being.

8. Respect Your Body

By respecting and appreciating the body you have, regardless of size or shape, a more positive and empowering relationship with food can be cultivated.

9. Movement – Feel the Difference

Exercise is reframed in intuitive eating as a way to honor and appreciate the body’s capabilities rather than a tool for punishment or compensation. Engaging in physical activity that brings joy and satisfaction is prioritized over rigid exercise regimens.

10. Gentle Nutrition

Finally, intuitive eating acknowledges the role of nutrition without fixating on strict dietary rules. It encourages making food choices that honor both your health and your taste buds, emphasizing flexibility and enjoyment over restriction.

Benefits of Intuitive Eating:

  • Sustainable Weight Management
  • Improved Mental Health
  • Lower BMI
  • Good Cholesterol
  • Better Digestive Health
  • Lowered Disordered/Emotional Eating
  • Raised Body Confidence

Maintain a Healthier Relationship with Eating After a Gastric Bypass

For those who have undergone weight loss surgery in Chattanooga, intuitive eating can complement the journey toward a healthier lifestyle. While surgical interventions like gastric bypass can aid in weight loss, intuitive eating provides the tools to build a sustainable and balanced relationship with food post-surgery.

Adopting the principles of intuitive eating after a gastric bypass surgery allows you to reconnect with your body, understand new hunger and fullness cues, and embrace a positive mindset towards food. By practicing intuitive eating, you can focus on your long-term health and well-being beyond the initial weight loss phase.

BMI Priority Pass - Our Price $7,999

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!

BMI Weight Loss Surgery Testimonial: “I’m Finally Happy with Me”

Posted on March 15, 2023

A young girl in black sportswear measures her waist with a centimeter on a dark gray background.

The team at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery wants to help you live your life to the fullest. Often, being chronically overweight can negatively impact our lives and cause fatigue, high blood pressure, and other health related problems. Luckily, weight loss surgery can help you achieve a healthier and happier lifestyle. Don’t just take our word for it. Amber Jones, one of our most recent weight loss patients, said, “[After my surgery], I’m finally happy with myself.”

If you’ve been going back and forth about weight loss surgery, like Amber was, we hope this blog can answer some of your questions and help you decide whether or not weight loss surgery is right for you. Before we learn more about Amber’s 85 lbs. weight loss after weight loss surgery, let’s discuss all you need to know about this procedure in Birmingham, AL.

What Is Weight Loss Surgery?

Weight loss surgery, also called bariatric surgery, reduces the stomach’s capacity to retain food. Lessening food intake results in significant weight loss and often treats other conditions that accompany obesity, like high blood pressure, fatigue, diabetes, and other health conditions.

Each of these customizable procedures offers a specific technique to decrease the capacity of your stomach. Some standard weight loss surgery techniques include Sleeve Gastrectomy, LAP-BAND, and Gastric Bypass. Our most common weight loss surgery, sleeve gastrectomy, is performed laparoscopically, and reduces stomach size by two-thirds. At BMI Surgery, Dr. Long and his team will discuss your medical history and desired results before recommending a surgical procedure that’s the best fit for you.

What Are the Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery?

There are countless benefits of weight loss surgery—take it from someone who has experienced it first-hand! “Now that I’ve had my surgery, the best thing is feeling good about myself, feeling good waking up, not being so exhausted all the time,” said Amber. This experience is common after weight loss surgery. Many people find their energy levels and overall well-being significantly improve after weight loss surgery at BMI Surgery.

Beyond the physical benefits, many patients report feeling more fulfilled, satisfied, and confident after bariatric surgery. Amber said she feels “happy and healthy.” She added, “I’m more active in my kids’ lives, and I’m a lot more present in the here and now. I’m not so worried about what other people think about me.”

With BMI Surgery, you can stop worrying about your weight and start living your life to the fullest.

Can Weight Loss Surgery Help Me If I’ve Been an Avid Dieter?

Many patients have dieted intermittently for years with little to no results. Intense dieting can be stressful and disheartening, sometimes leading to people gaining weight instead of losing it. Amber frequently dieted before her weight loss surgery but said after she had kids, “I could never seem to get it [her weight] under control.” She added, “My health had gotten so out of hand and I was ready to change my life for the better.”

If you’ve reached a point where you know your weight has gotten out of control but don’t know where to turn, BMI Surgery can help. Our compassionate team of professionals can listen to your concerns and create a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Become the Happiest Version of Yourself

At BMI Surgery, we want to empower you to be the best version of yourself. Dr. Long and his team of experts are dedicated to your overall satisfaction and well-being. After her weight loss surgery, Amber said that she couldn’t be happier with the choice she made to use Dr. Long as her surgeon, and we want you to have that same feeling when you choose BMI. Discover how you can get back to living your life to the fullest at BMI Surgery in Birmingham, AL, by calling us at (205) 833-6907 or filling out our online form.

Your Trusted Weight Loss Experts: BMI Surgery

Dr. Long is a board-certified weight loss surgeon in Birmingham, AL. We offer customized treatment plans to help you reach your weight loss goals. Call us at 205-850-1973 or schedule an appointment online, or get started on your weight loss journey today!

BMI Surgery Testimonial: The Weight Loss Surgery Experience

Posted on March 15, 2023

A man in a grey shirt measuring his waist line after weight loss.

At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we provide patient-focused care and treatment. Our various weight loss surgeries help those with obesity regain control of their health and well-being. Our board-certified weight loss surgeon, Dr. Long, and his team support our patients not just during their initial consultation but for years beyond their surgery. At BMI Surgery, we can help you lose weight and live a healthier, happier life.

Don’t just take our word for it. One of our patients, Marco A. Williams, spoke with us about how his weight loss surgery drastically improved his life and health. If you’ve been considering weight loss surgery but haven’t fully decided, William’s words of wisdom may help you determine if weight loss surgery is right for you.

What Is Weight Loss Surgery?

Before we jump into William’s testimonial, we’d like to discuss the basics of weight loss surgery. Weight loss surgery, also called bariatric surgery, is a surgical procedure that reduces stomach capacity, which minimizes food intake. If you’ve tried dieting and exercise with no luck, or have a genetic condition that makes it difficult for you to lose weight, weight loss surgery can help you achieve a healthy lifestyle. With a decreased food intake, patients will lose weight.

There are various types of weight loss surgeries, each with a different technique and method to help patients lose weight. The most popular choices available at BMI include Lap Band and Sleeve Gastrectomy, but there are also other surgery options available. At BMI Surgery, Dr. Long and his team work one-on-one with each patient to decide which weight loss option best suits your needs.

Is Weight Loss Surgery Right for You?

Weight loss surgery can be an emotional decision to make, but the professionals at BMI make it the most comfortable experience possible. Take it from one of our success stories, William. Williams says his 215-pound weight loss wouldn’t have been possible without Dr. Long and his team. He added that “everyone I’ve sent to Dr. Long has had great success.”

At BMI Surgery, we don’t just provide successful weight loss operations but also care for you and your family. Throughout the process, we are ready to answer any questions you or your loved ones may have, while providing encouragement and support. Weight loss surgery is life-changing, and you want a team that will stand by your side before, during, and after your transformative procedure.

“I chose Dr. Long because of the way I was treated. Just the way they really cared, explained everything, and supported my family. I wouldn’t have chosen anyone else for my weight loss surgery,” says Williams.

We are honored to participate in our patient’s weight loss journey at BMI Surgery and are thrilled that Williams is as excited about his transformation as we are!

Is Weight Loss Surgery Safe?

At BMI Surgery, our provider, Dr. Long is trained in minimally invasive & bariatric surgery and certified by the American Board of Surgery. While all surgeries have possible complications, weight loss surgery has helped people with obesity for years. At BMI Surgery, Dr. Long has been performing weight loss surgeries since 2002 with outstanding results. Additionally, weight loss surgery can help those suffering from other health conditions caused by their weight.

“Without Dr. Long and BMI, I probably wouldn’t be alive today. Since then, I started doing things I wouldn’t be able to do,” says Williams. He now participates in go-karting, an activity he couldn’t do safely before his operation at BMI Surgery. Beyond the decreased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health ailments, many patients can live fuller, healthier lives—something Williams is experiencing first-hand.

Begin Your Journey Toward a Healthier You

Our patients are our mission at BMI Surgery, and we couldn’t be happier hearing stories of life-changing operations. Willams and many others found real results when there seemed to be no hope for a healthier life. If you’re interested in weight loss surgery or have questions about the procedure, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at BMI Surgery!

Lose Weight for Good at BMI Surgery

Dr. Long is board-certified and the top weight loss surgeon in Alabama and beyond. Boost your confidence and live your life to the fullest with the help of our team. Call us at 205-850-1973 or schedule an appointment online or discuss your weight loss journey today!

National Heart Month: Preventing Obesity & Heart Disease

Posted on January 15, 2023

Red heart shaped hand exercise ball with doctor physician's stethoscope on white background.

Red heart shaped hand exercise ball with doctor physician's stethoscope on white background.

There’s no mistaking that obesity is on the rise in America. Data shows that 41.9% of Americans are obese. Not only can obesity be uncomfortable and diminish one’s quality of life, but it can also contribute to other health conditions, like heart disease. In fact, if you’re obese, you’re over 20% more likely to develop heart disease.

In honor of National Heart Month, the team at BMI Surgery is discussing the connection between obesity and heart health, specifically the higher risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Combat obesity and heart disease with the knowledge of how to prevent both. Keep on reading to learn more!

How Can Obesity Contribute to Heart Disease?

Heart disease is a general term for various heart conditions. When fat cells enlarge, chronic inflammation can occur by way of your hormones. Chronic inflammation can disrupt your insulin levels, which means your body may have trouble regulating blood sugar. The presence of long-term insulin resistance is called metabolic syndrome, which can make you much more likely to develop certain health conditions.

While high blood pressure isn’t a heart disease, it can lead to heart diseases like heart failure, heart attack, and arrhythmia. High blood pressure requires the heart to work harder to circulate blood to the rest of the body, which causes various heart problems, like heart failure, Peripheral artery disease (PAD), and coronary artery disease. In other cases, excess fat can build up in the arteries that carry blood to your heart. If these pathways are blocked, a heart attack or other heart ailments can occur.

Additionally, the extra work can cause the heart to enlarge, which can lead to heart failure. Obese people may experience heart arrhythmias (heart beats too fast or too slow) more frequently. This occurs when the left ventricle becomes too large with the extra effort required with excess body fat.

How Can I Prevent Obesity & Heart Disease?

The best measures to prevent obesity and heart disease are proper exercise and nutrition. If you have a family history of heart disease, your lifestyle and habits are especially important. We recommend speaking with your doctor about nutritional and exercise plans customized for your current weight.

If you’re not getting enough sleep, you may be raising your chances of developing obesity and heart disease. In fact, if you sleep fewer than six hours a night, you have a 20% higher risk of a heart attack. When you sleep, your heart rate lowers, and you’re less likely to crave salty and sweet foods that aren’t heart-healthy. To prevent heart disease and obesity, we advise seven to nine hours of sleep per night.

Can Weight Loss Surgery Treat Obesity?

Weight loss surgery can treat obesity! Also called bariatric surgery, weight loss surgery can reduce your stomach size to decrease food consumption and absorption. Weight loss surgery may be right for you if other weight loss methods haven’t been successful, like diet or exercise.

There are various weight loss surgeries available, such as laparoscopic gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and LAP-BAND®. Each surgery is a little different, but each can effectively treat obesity. After weight loss surgery, you’ll still need to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Celebrate National Heart Month & Reduce Your Risk

If you’re suffering from obesity, or know someone who is, we encourage you to seek treatment. A weight loss specialist can provide options for surgery, support groups, nutritional plans, and more. At BMI Surgery, we have been transforming bodies since 2002 and specialize in weight loss solutions that last for decades to come. Don’t let obesity affect your overall health and well-being– contact the experts today!

Begin Your Journey Towards a Healthier, Happier Life This February

Reduce your risk of heart disease this February! Our team at BMI Surgery can help you lose weight and offer expert advice to help you maintain your results! Call us at (205) 850-1973 or contact us online to transform your body today!

Obesity 101: Common Causes, Signs, & Symptoms

Posted on January 15, 2023

A female dietitian holding a diet plan during a consultation with a patient in the office.

A female dietitian holding a diet plan during a consultation with a patient in the office.

Over 40% of Americans are obese. While many of us know what obesity is, you may not know how dangerous it can be for one’s health. Those suffering from obesity are often at higher risk for health conditions such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.

While obesity rates are rising in America, this condition is preventable. The experts at BMI Surgery discuss obesity’s causes, signs, and symptoms so that you can educate yourself and those around you about the dangers of obesity. If you are struggling with obesity, there are treatments available–don’t hesitate to reach out to weight loss specialists.

What Is Obesity?

Obesity is characterized by excess body fat relative to one’s weight and is measured with the BMI (body mass index) scale. Obesity is often progressive and can change the way your body functions. Doctors consider anyone with a BMI greater than 30 as obese. However, there are three classes of obesity, each becoming more serious the higher the class.

The three types of obesity are broken into the first, second, and third classes. The following measurements are standards for doctors across America.

  • Class I obesity: BMI 30 to <35 kg/m².
  • Class II obesity: BMI 35 to <40 kg/m².
  • Class III obesity: BMI 40+ kg/m².

While often diminishing quality of life, obesity can impact one’s overall health. Obesity has been linked to Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, sleep apnea, metabolic syndrome, osteoarthritis, kidney disease, pregnancy problems, and certain types of cancer.

What Causes Obesity?

On the surface, obesity is caused by eating more calories consumed than burned. But every case of obesity is different, and there are often other factors that cause obesity. For example, certain medications or hormonal changes can increase your appetite and lead you to become obese. Additionally, certain genetic mutations cause hereditary obesity.

If you’re depressed, anxious, or stressed, you may eat more than your body can consume to cope with challenging emotions and feelings. Fast food and convenience foods are at our fingertips, and these foods often increase the process of gaining excess body fat. Additionally, living a very sedentary lifestyle while over-consuming food can quickly lead to obesity.

What Are the Symptoms of Obesity?

Beyond gaining weight, there are a few other symptoms of obesity you may notice. Some of these signs include:

  • Back pain
  • Joint pain
  • Insomnia
  • Excessive sweating
  • Fatigue
  • Depression
  • Shortness of breath

If you notice you or a loved one developing symptoms of obesity, don’t hesitate to seek medical care. You may feel nervous about finding treatment, but a doctor can provide remedies to improve your quality of life and health.

What Are Treatment Options for Obesity?

There are many treatments available for obesity. At BMI Surgery, our doctors recommend losing a minimum of 5% to 10% of your total weight. This percentage may not seem like much, but even the most minor weight loss can significantly reduce your risk of developing health problems. Your weight loss specialist will recommend dietary treatments, exercise regimens, and other lifestyle changes.

Likewise, your doctor may prescribe certain medications that can decrease your appetite. Medication isn’t a long-term treatment but may be beneficial in the beginning. Similarly, another treatment option for obesity is weight loss surgery.

Is Weight Loss Surgery an Effective Treatment for Obesity?

Yes! Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, reduces stomach capacity to lower food intake. Weight loss surgery isn’t performed unless other treatment methods haven’t worked, like diet or exercise changes, and your obesity must be impacting your health.

Common weight loss procedures include:

  • Sleeve gastrectomy
  • Laparoscopic gastric bypass
  • LAP-BAND®
  • Orbera® gastric balloon
  • Revisional weight loss surgery

Begin Your Journey Towards a Happier & Healthier Life

Obesity can cause various health issues that may impact your well-being for years to come. Luckily, with some help from experts, you can find effective ways to treat obesity. While it may seem overwhelming to seek treatment, don’t hesitate to contact a doctor for the betterment of your physical and mental health.

If you’re interested in weight loss surgery or know of a loved one who may benefit, a Board-certified weight loss surgeon can help you lead a healthier, happier life. At BMI Surgery, we offer various types of weight loss surgery, support groups, nutritional and exercise advice, preparation class, and more.

Discover Weight Loss Surgery Options at BMI Surgery

Our surgeon, Dr. Long, is board-certified and has successfully performed weight loss surgeries for 20 years. Don’t wait to become the happiest, healthiest version of yourself—contact BMI Surgery today. To schedule an appointment or discuss your weight loss journey, call 205-850-1973 or contact us online.

How Weight Loss Can Improve Osteoarthritis

Posted on May 5, 2022

weight loss osteoarthritis

weight loss osteoarthritis
We know that losing weight can improve quality of life, overall health, and several major health conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes. Osteoarthritis is another condition that can be greatly improved through weight loss. 

When you have arthritis, it can be tricky to lose weight and keep it off. The condition can make it very difficult to exercise, and this can make losing weight hard. Weight loss surgery, such as gastric sleeve and gastric bypass, can be great options for those who are in this situation. 

What is Osteoarthritis & How Is It Related to Obesity?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. Osteoarthritis can damage any joint, but the disorder most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips, and spine.

Common symptoms of arthritis include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness that impairs mobility and affects the quality of life for many people. Most people who have arthritis manage the condition primarily with medications, most commonly with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). While these can help reduce inflammation in the short-term, long-term use is associated with gastritis, peptic ulcers, and kidney disease. Moderate to severe cases of arthritis can be managed with surgery such as a joint replacement.

The exact correlation between obesity and osteoarthritis is still unclear, but we know that being overweight increases the load on major joints like knees and hips. This increases the rate of normal wear and tear of cartilages at joints. Obesity alone can cause three to six times one’s body weight to press down on the knees while walking.  

Research suggests that as body mass index (BMI) increases, the chance of developing osteoarthritis also increases. Weight loss is among the initial non-pharmacological recommendations for arthritic conditions, especially knee osteoarthritis.

Clearly, losing weight can improve osteoarthritis, with or without weight loss surgery. Surgery can be the jumpstart many people need to lose a significant amount of weight initially, then they are able to be much more active which helps the weight stay off for good. If you have osteoarthritis and are looking for options to help you with weight loss, make an appointment with us today!

Learn more about weight loss options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery

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