Category: Weight Loss

WHAT IS GASTRIC DUMPING SYNDROME? SIGNS, SYMPTOMS, & PREVENTION

Posted on August 26, 2022

A woman holding her stomach in pain wearing an off-white blouse and blue jeans sitting on the couch.

A woman holding her stomach in pain wearing an off-white blouse and blue jeans sitting on the couch.

Are you experiencing pain, bloating, fatigue, or nausea after eating? If you have recently undergone gastric surgery, you could be encountering dumping syndrome. Dumping syndrome, also called rapid gastric emptying, is a condition that can develop after gastric bypass surgery and occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach to the intestines.

Don’t let your health dictate your social plans, energy levels, and personal comfort. Find the relief you deserve by learning more about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for dumping syndrome from the experts at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery.

What Is Dumping Syndrome (Rapid Gastric Emptying)?

When a person experiences early dumping syndrome, also known as rapid gastric emptying, food is “dumped” into the small intestine without proper digestion. This process leads to uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, swelling, abdominal pain, and other digestive issues.

In addition to these gastrointestinal symptoms, individuals with dumping syndrome may also experience systemic symptoms, including light-headedness and fatigue after meals. These symptoms can manifest anywhere from 10 minutes to 3 hours post-eating. Dumping syndrome is a condition often discussed in the context of digestive and kidney diseases, highlighting its impact on overall health and well-being.

SYMPTOMS OF DUMPING SYNDROME

This can be categorized into two types: early dumping syndrome symptoms and late dumping syndrome. Early dumping syndrome symptoms happen 10 to 30 minutes after a meal, whereas late dumping syndrome happens 1 to 3 hours after eating. Some common symptoms of dumping syndrome include:

  • Bloating
  • Swelling
  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea
  • Facial flushing
  • Heart palpitations
  • Dizziness and fatigue
  • Diarrhea
  • An uncomfortable feeling of fullness (even after small portions)

CAUSES

To understand the causes of dumping syndrome, it is essential to grasp the workings of the digestive system and the role of rapid gastric emptying. The digestive tract produces and releases hormones that regulate its functions. When food moves too quickly from the stomach to the intestines, a phenomenon known as rapid gastric emptying, the digestive tract releases an excess of these hormones. This triggers the body to shift fluid from the bloodstream into the small intestine. This fluid shift, along with other substances released by the intestines in response to undigested food, leads to the symptoms of dumping syndrome.

Dumping syndrome is commonly associated with gastric bypass surgery and other types of stomach surgery. There are two types of dumping syndrome: early dumping syndrome, which occurs within 10 to 30 minutes after eating, and late dumping syndrome, which can occur 1 to 3 hours after eating. Both types can result from the rapid transit of food into the intestines, causing a range of symptoms from abdominal pain and bloating to light-headedness and fatigue. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for managing and treating the condition, particularly in digestive and kidney diseases.

HOME REMEDIES

So, what can you do at home to try and treat this condition? The first thing that you need to do is try to change what you eat and how you eat. Some diet changes include:

  • Avoid liquids until at least 30 minutes after a meal
  • Lie down for 30 minutes after a meal to alleviate symptoms
  • Avoid foods high in simple carbohydrates
  • Increase your protein and fibre intake
  • Avoid dairy products
  • Avoid alcohol

Managing your blood sugar levels by avoiding high-sugar foods can also help alleviate symptoms of dumping syndrome.

Eating 6 small meals daily instead of the traditional 3 meals daily may be beneficial. Your doctor will recommend what specific foods you should avoid and any other steps you need to take to prevent dumping syndrome symptoms.

POST-OP BEST PRACTICES AFTER GASTRIC BYPASS SURGERY

If you have had stomach surgery and want to try and limit your symptoms, do not attempt to just “power through” dumping syndrome symptoms. Instead, rest whenever you feel tired. Ample rest will allow your body to regulate its processes.

Daily walks may help alleviate feelings of bloating and puffiness if you can. We also recommend not lifting anything that may cause you to strain, such as a vacuum cleaner, a child, bags of dog food, or a heavy briefcase.

Find Relief from Dumping Syndrome

You deserve to enjoy dinner with friends or breakfast with your family without worrying about possible side effects. If you notice any symptoms of dumping syndrome, it’s essential to contact a doctor. A medical professional may recommend an oral glucose tolerance test to diagnose late-phase dumping syndrome. A medical professional will be able to analyze your unique symptoms and advise treatments to give you relief. Don’t let your health dictate your social plans, energy levels, and comfort!

TREATMENT AT BMI SURGERY

If you are struggling with dumping syndrome, don’t hesitate to contact Dr Long and his team today. Doctors may use the Dumping Symptom Rating Scale to assess your symptoms and determine the best course of treatment. Proudly serving the Birmingham area, we specialize in all types of bariatric surgery and can help you with post-op recovery. Call us today at 205-850-1973 or online to schedule a consultation.

We look forward to helping you take back control of your health!

How To Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle With a Busy Schedule

Posted on August 26, 2022

Healthy dinner from lunch box at office working table

Healthy dinner from lunch box at office working table If you feel like your life revolves around all of the things that you have to do, you may believe you don’t have the energy or the time to focus on yourself. You’re not alone in this struggle, since many people across the nation feel that a busy schedule keeps them from maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, it is possible for you to eat well and exercise without compromising your activities and routine.

Eating healthily when you are always on the go, taking the kids to soccer practice, and working full time can be difficult, but with a little bit of planning a preparation, these tips from the experts at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery can make it easy for you to make healthy choices while on the go.

Keep Healthy Snacks Available

If you’re running from meeting to meeting or dropping your kids off at different activities throughout the day, it can be hard to squeeze in a meal. It’s understandable that many people feel as though they’re always picking up fast food when on the go—after all, it’s called fast food for a reason, right? But frequent fast-food stops can quickly upend your healthy eating habits. If you want to avoid this easy temptation, keep a steady supply of healthy snacks in your car so you can keep yourself on track throughout the day.

Prepare Healthy Meals Ahead of Time

We recommend preparing meals ahead of time that are both healthy and something you enjoy. Often, at the end of the day, we feel too tired to cook, and these prepared meals can help you make a healthy choice. Many meals can be stored in the refrigerator or in the freezer. Or, there are many meal services, like Hello Fresh, that will deliver healthy food right to your door.

Stay Active Throughout the Day

By staying active during the day, you can take advantage of little moments that can make a big difference in your health. For example, walking your children to school can allow you to spend time with them while also getting in your exercise for the day. Or, if you work in an office for most of the day, take advantage of your lunch break and walk around the block a few times. We’ve listed a few ideas, but there is no wrong way to get active.

  • Walk your kids to school
  • Walk laps during your child’s sports practice
  • Walk during your lunch break
  • Take the stairs instead of the elevator
  • Park far away from work
  • Exercise during TV commercials

Being active and making healthy diet choices can improve your brain health, help manage weight, and strengthen bone and muscle. With some intentional planning and preparation, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle during even the most hectic of days.

Lose Weight with a Healthy Lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle may be easier than you think! Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest difference. Planning and preparation can set you up for success when it comes to a healthy lifestyle. At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we want you to feel your best while maintaining healthy habits!

Weight Loss Surgery with BMI 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. Give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-858-1211.

Should I Consider Weight Loss Surgery?

Posted on July 26, 2022

Closeup of a person’s feet on a scale with coiled measuring tape in foreground as they consider weight loss surgery.

Closeup of a person’s feet on a scale with coiled measuring tape in foreground as they consider weight loss surgery. There are many ways to lose weight, including dieting, exercise, and even some medications that are approved for weight loss. For some of us, however, these options aren’t adequate to get started on the journey. When you need help achieving significant weight loss, weight loss surgery is an effective and safe way to achieve those goals and set yourself on a path to a healthier life.

If you’ve been thinking about looking into weight loss surgery, you might be unsure whether it’s the right choice for you. Perhaps you’re not sure if it will be sufficient, you’re wary of potential risks, or you just don’t know whether you’re a candidate.

Make the right decision for your weight loss goals by discovering how weight loss surgery could improve your health and lifestyle from the experts at BMI Surgery.

How Being Overweight Impacts Your Health and Lifestyle

A person that is overweight often encounters regular bodily pain and a reduced ability to function physically. The excess weight puts added stress on your joints and the cartilage that protects your bones, contributing to a multitude of issues in the body.
Some of the most frequent issues caused by extra weight include:

  • High blood pressure
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Coronary heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Sleep apnea
  • Some types of cancer

While these conditions are all different, the risks of each can be reduced through weight loss.

The Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery

Many people choose weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, to jumpstart their weight loss journey. Weight loss surgery can not only help you lose weight but also help you to ensure you keep the weight off once it’s gone, leading to better health for years to come.

Lose Weight and Keep It Off with Weight Loss Surgery

Surgery is generally recommended for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 to 40 or higher. Weight loss surgery is frequently recommended if you have further medical conditions related to obesity.

Weight loss surgery is just one part of a weight loss plan, however. You must maintain a healthy lifestyle including diet and exercise after recovery to maintain your results. We recommend learning more about nutrition and exercise prior to your bariatric surgery, so that it feels like second nature after the operation.

Improve Your Overall Health with Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery such as gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgery help shed pounds by restricting the amount of food intake in the stomach. Through weight loss surgery, many medical conditions will improve, and you’re more likely to enjoy a number of other health & lifestyle benefits, too, such as:

  • Improved sleep
  • Better intimacy
  • Enhanced mood
  • Clearer skin
  • Alleviate stress & anxiety

Many patients report better quality of life after bariatric surgery and better overall health. A healthier, happier life is possible with weight loss surgery.

Enhance Your Quality of Life with Weight Loss Surgery

BMI Surgery is here to answer any questions you have about weight loss surgery. Our qualified team of experts can discuss weight loss surgery options to find what’s best for you. Weight loss surgery is minimally invasive and effective, making it the ideal choice for those who need to lose weight. Improve your quality of life and overall health with our team at BMI Surgery.

Discover Weight Loss Surgery Options at BMI Surgery

Our surgeon, Dr. Long is board-certified and has been successfully performing weight loss surgeries since 2002. Don’t wait to begin your weight loss journey—contact BMI Surgery today to set yourself up for amazing results. To schedule an appointment or discuss your weight loss journey, call 205-850-1973 or contact us online.

Can You Get Pregnant After Weight Loss Surgery?

Posted on July 26, 2022

A pregnant woman and her husband cuddle on a couch. Weight loss surgery can affect fertility positively.

A pregnant woman and her husband cuddle on a couch. Weight loss surgery can affect fertility positively.Starting a family is a common goal that many people share. But if you’ve struggled with obesity and are hoping to achieve that goal, there are many misconceptions out there about your options. Many women aren’t sure whether weight loss surgery will interfere with starting a family. The truth is, though, that weight loss surgery not only improves your health but it can also improve your ability to get pregnant.

Our team here at BMI Surgery has seen many healthy families start after a weight loss journey. So, if you are planning to try for a baby or want to ensure the option is open to you in the future, here are some things you can consider as you weigh your options.

Does Weight Loss Surgery Affect Fertility?

Weight loss does not negatively affect fertility—and many women become pregnant after having bariatric surgery. In fact, many women choose gastric sleeve or gastric bypass because of the positive effect it has on fertility.

The weight loss procedure can make your ovulation more regular by stabilizing hormone levels, which often increases your chances of getting pregnant in a safe way. If you choose in vitro fertilization for pregnancy, weight loss typically increases your chances of success.

Choosing this option to help you reach your weight loss goals can also help to make your pregnancy healthier, potentially reducing the risk of gestational diabetes, blood pressure disorders, and postpartum hemorrhage.

How Long Should You Wait After Surgery?

It’s important not to get pregnant too quickly after surgery. Our doctors generally recommend that you should wait for at least 18 months after weight loss surgery before conception to ensure full healing. However, each patient’s case is unique, so talk to your doctor about when the time is right for you.

It’s important to wait until your weight has stabilized, both for your health and the health of your future child. By waiting to conceive, you can reduce the risk of fetal malnourishment and premature birth. You should always discuss your plans with your doctor so that they can help you manage your weight, family planning, and pregnancy.

Safety Steps to Take

There are a few additional things that your doctor might recommend you do before and during pregnancy. After bariatric surgery, there can also be a higher risk of low birth weight and intrauterine growth restriction for your baby, so it’s essential to test for nutritional deficiencies after your surgery to lower the risk of problems. Your doctor may also recommend specific supplements to support you and your baby during pregnancy, as well as frequent appointments to check your nutrition for any deficiencies.

If you follow your doctor’s advice about your nutritional choices, you, like many women, may have a natural delivery with no complications. Women that have had these procedures can also breastfeed and care for their babies as normal.

Quality Family Planning After Weight Loss

At BMI Surgery, we have many minimally invasive surgery options, like gastric sleeve and gastric bypass, that are uniquely suited to fit each individual’s weight loss goals and lifestyle situation. Our team will provide a thorough evaluation during your appointment and recommend an option that is best for you.

If you decide to try for a baby after weight loss surgery, you can consult with your bariatric surgeon, as well as other medical professionals, such as a dietician. Our qualified team of experts is always here to provide resources and advice about pregnancy after weight loss surgery to help you decide what’s right for you.

Minimally Invasive Weight Loss Surgery in Birmingham, AL

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

Healthy Vacation – Focus On Experiences Not Food

Posted on May 16, 2022

healthy vacation

healthy vacation
For many people, the focus of any vacation is food. They look forward to eating out at restaurants, sipping on fruity drinks, and snacking all day. Food becomes the activity instead of healthy fuel for active experiences and fun.

While we do think that food should be fun on vacation, it shouldn’t be the main focus, especially if you are trying to lose weight, preparing to have weight loss surgery, or if you’ve already had weight loss surgery. This change in mindset might mean planning a slightly different vacation than what you’re used to, but it’s possible to plan activities and experiences that will be enjoyable for everyone in your family, including you.

Tips for Having a Healthy Vacation This Summer

First, let’s talk about making sure your active vacation is appropriate for where you are in your weight loss journey. A more restful trip will be better if you’ve had weight loss surgery recently and are still recovering. Your body needs plenty of time to heal and adjust before you start making huge changes. 

But for those who are several months or years out from surgery, you may be ready for a much more active option. If you aren’t sure what you’re ready to handle yet, please let us know, and our surgeon Dr. Long will be happy to offer advice.

Here are a few questions to think about to help you focus on more than food so that you can enjoy your time away while also sticking to your healthy lifestyle. 

Where will you vacation? 

Before booking, consider where you will go carefully. A cruise might be restful, but the never-ending buffets are probably not the best dining option. There are plenty of other vacations that can offer peace and quiet, in addition to opportunities for exploring and trying lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Have you done your research? 

Preparing for your trip is key, especially when it comes to planning fun activities. When it comes to food, you will need to give it some thought, but doing this ahead of time will mean that you can focus on it less later.

Here are some things you may want to research:

  • Healthy dining options at your hotel or condo and in the area
  • Activities at your resort or hotel and in the area
  • Activities that may require reservations
  • Age restrictions on any activities you are considering
  • Seasonal fruits and vegetables you may find locally
  • Easy meals and snacks you may be able to take with you when out exploring or participating in activities
  • Grocery stores or markets that are close by

What’s your plan?

While some people are very opposed to planning out a vacation, for those who are committed to their diet and exercise routine, a plan will be essential. Take all of your research and think about what you want out of your days. If you plan to be out and about, know ahead of time if you will take a picnic or stop by a restaurant. If you have a particularly active day, you may want to focus more on breakfast so that everyone has plenty of energy.

Also, plan ahead to make sure you have plenty of water and healthy snacks for spending time at the beach or pool and while doing other activities, such as hiking. Do you have a reusable water bottle, and do you have a backpack or bag where you can keep everything? These are the details to think about. 

Can you take healthy staples with you?

This will depend on your exact travel details, but in many cases, you can take non-perishable items with you. Staples like raw nuts or tuna packets will probably work for any trip, and if you can take a cooler along, fresh fruits, vegetables, and other options may work as well. 

How can you make sure you drink enough water?

Drinking enough water every day is always very important, but it becomes even more crucial after weight loss surgery. You will feel better and find it easier to stick to your healthy habits if you drink enough water each day on vacation and while traveling. Remember that we often recommend that our patients do not drink while eating meals, so factor that into your plan.

What level of activity do you want on your trip?

If you are far enough along in your recovery, you can focus your trip on all kinds of activities. This might simply mean exploring your vacation destination on foot as much as possible and swimming at the resort’s pool. It might also mean hiking, zip-lining, biking, snorkeling, and much more. Take advantage of the fact that you can do all of these things now!

Contact Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery to Get Started on Your Weight Loss Journey

Remember that being able to go on vacation is part of what weight loss surgery is all about! At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we want to help you get to a place where you can be more active and enjoy life to the fullest. This is our hope for all of our patients, and we want you to enjoy your trip without stress or anxiety, especially when it comes to food.

Planning and research will go a long way, and you’ll be thankful you took that time beforehand when you’re faced with decisions on your trip. If you need any help in your preparations or have any questions about what will be appropriate for you, please let us know!

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 or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907. 

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.  

Why Exercise Is Crucial After Weight Loss Surgery

Posted on April 27, 2022

weight loss surgery exercise

weight loss surgery exercise
There are a lot of myths and misconceptions surrounding weight loss surgery, and one of those is that if you have a bariatric procedure, your weight-related problems are solved. The surgery alone will allow you to lose weight and keep it off. No more worrying about eating healthy or working out. 

This idea is wrong on both counts, and in this article we will discuss why it’s important to exercise after weight loss surgery

Why Exercise Is Important After Weight Loss Surgery

We do want to recognize that having gastric sleeve surgery or another procedure at Birmingham Minimally Invasive is a huge step! But it’s your first step in your journey of weight loss and becoming healthier. The work does not stop once your procedure is complete.

Regular exercise will help you recover faster, reach your weight loss goals, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Exercise can help you lose more weight and keep it off after surgery. According to several studies by the National Institutes of Health, those who exercised after weight loss surgery saw their body mass index (BMI) decrease 4.2% more than those who did not.

It’s also important that you lose weight the right way. When you lose weight, your body will naturally eliminate both fat and muscle. Exercise will help you preserve the lean muscle that we want to help you stay healthy.

Here are some additional benefits of exercise after weight loss surgery:

  • Maintain weight loss
  • Improve circulation
  • Strengthen your heart and bones
  • Increase your metabolic rate
  • Develop muscle strength and endurance
  • Improve immune system
  • Improve blood sugar control
  • Relieve stress
  • Improve your mood 
  • Make it easier to complete everyday tasks and activities

Exercise can also help you have more energy and feel better, which is especially important after undergoing such a life-changing event. Exercise produces endorphins that help you combat anxiety and depression. The time after surgery can be tough for many patients for a lot of different reasons, and exercise can help you deal with stress, anxiety, and depression.

Tips for Exercising After Weight Loss Surgery

BMI Surgery will provide you with guidelines regarding exercise after your surgery. You will be somewhat restricted initially, then you will gradually be able to build up your activity level.

After surgery, there are three key areas you should focus on when it comes to exercise:

  1. Cardio – Regular cardio aerobic exercise will burn calories and give you more energy. Getting your blood pumping through cardio can boost your metabolism, help you work through anxiety, and help you sleep better. 
  2. Strength training – Strength training will help you maintain lean muscle mass, which will also help maintain your body’s calorie burning engine. It will help keep your bones strong as well. Strength training is great for toning and building muscle so that you can be more active.
  3. Flexibility – Flexibility training is important to help you avoid injuring yourself. If you feel sore or tight after your workout, flexibility training can help. It can also help you avoid straining yourself when you’re running or lifting weights.

While there are many benefits of exercise after weight loss surgery, we know that it can be challenging, especially for those who have been very inactive prior to their procedure. But you are not alone. Many others have been through this process and come to love exercise. We’ve found that patients who seek out support, follow an exercise routine, and stick to a healthy diet are far more likely to lose the weight and keep it off.

Contact Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery to Get Started on Your Weight Loss Journey

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

When Gastric Sleeve Surgery May Be the Best Option

Posted on April 14, 2022

gastric sleeve surgery

gastric sleeve surgery
Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is one of our most popular weight loss surgery options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive. It’s a cost-effective choice, low-risk, and the success rate is high. 

But since each of our patients is an individual with their own story and set of circumstances, it’s not always the right option for everyone. We work with each person to find that right option and develop a plan tailored to them specifically. Here’s more information about instances when gastric sleeve is a great option.

When Gastric Sleeve Might Be the Right Option

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

Some people want a very simple, straightforward procedure, and gastric sleeve fits that bill. Compared to other options, gastric sleeve is considered to be a more simple procedure. We do not reroute the intestines like we do during gastric bypass. Gastric sleeve surgery typically takes only about 30 to 45 minutes, and we perform the surgery laparoscopically. This means we avoid the need for large abdominal incisions, which typically results in less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.

Since gastric sleeve is done laparoscopically, it’s a minimally invasive procedure. You benefit from minimally invasive surgery dramatically compared to traditional open surgery. Minimally invasive surgery offers less pain, reduced scarring, lower risk of infection, less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, quicker return to work, and less occurrence of postoperative incisional hernias. 

For those who are looking for a cost-effective surgery, gastric sleeve is also a great option. Our price at BMI Surgery is $8,999. This is the best price you will find in our area because our goal is to make losing weight attainable for you. Since gastric sleeve is considered one of the less invasive weight loss procedures, we can offer it at a lower price than some other options. It requires less time to perform the surgery and a shorter hospital stay in most cases, which also affects the cost. 

Also related to cost, patients can pay for gastric sleeve with or without insurance. If using insurance to cover the procedure, you must have a minimum BMI of 35 to 40, along with various other health issues, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or heart disease. If your BMI is higher than 40, these other health issues are not required. Gastric sleeve is a good option for anyone meeting these requirements without insurance coverage as well. 

For those who are looking for a fairly restrictive procedure that will allow you to lose a significant amount of weight, gastric sleeve is also a great consideration. Because gastric sleeve surgery greatly reduces the size of your stomach, it limits the amount of food you can eat at one time. After eating a small amount of food, you will feel full very quickly and continue to feel full for several hours. Depending on your pre-operative weight, you can expect to lose between 40% to 70% of your excess body weight in the first year after gastric sleeve surgery.

Gastric sleeve can be life-saving for those with other major health problems since many obesity-related conditions improve or resolve after the procedure. Diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, and abnormal cholesterol levels are improved or cured in more than 75% of patients undergoing gastric sleeve.

Contact Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery to Get Started on Your Weight Loss Journey

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

Why We Require a Nutrition/Prep Class Before Surgery

Posted on March 17, 2022

weight loss surgery prep

weight loss surgery prep
At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we want you to be successful with your weight loss. Learning about the process and preparing is absolutely key, which is why we require all weight loss surgery patients to take an online nutrition/prep class before your surgery. 

While you will learn much more in the class, in this article we will cover some of the basics about what to expect from the class.

Nutrition/Prep Class at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery

Our class is led by our bariatric coordinator and bariatric nutritionist. While already very knowledgeable in these areas, she brings a much more personable and relatable quality to the class because she had gastric bypass surgery herself. When she shares information, she’s coming from a very personal place of having gone through this process, including the emotions.

The class is required for both private pay patients and those paying with insurance. You will have a chance to ask questions and bring up concerns while learning about pre-op nutrition, post-op nutrition, and everything else you’ll need to know about the surgery, such as tips to help you prepare mentally. You will attend the nutrition/prep class one to three weeks prior to your surgery. 

We will talk to you about our recommendations for prepping your home life in order to make things easier on yourself after surgery. Along with having a friend or family member come stay with you, especially if you have children, we encourage you to have your pantry and refrigerator stocked full of easily-accessible foods and liquids that fit in with your diet plan. We will also talk more about the medications we prescribe after surgery and recommend that you have those filled prior to surgery.

In the class, we will also prepare you more for what to expect after surgery. Most insurance companies require a one-night stay in the hospital, but if you’re not paying with insurance, surgery will be performed in our outpatient surgery center, and you’ll typically go home the same day. We’ll talk a lot about what you’ll eat right after surgery and how that diet progresses over the coming weeks. The class also includes information about when it’s safe to start exercising again and how that process should progress.

There is a lot to learn in the nutrition/prep class, but it’s crucial to know it all in order to be successful. The patients that take their medications as prescribed and actually stick with the diet after surgery are the ones we’ve seen be the most successful. We’ve also found that patients who seek out support are more likely to lose the weight and keep it off. 

Contact Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery to Get Started on Your Weight Loss Journey

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

Dealing With Loose Skin After Weight Loss Surgery

Posted on March 8, 2022

weight loss surgery loose skin

weight loss surgery loose skin
When first consulting, preparing for, and during the early recovery phase after weight loss surgery, most people are focused mostly on doing everything they need to do in order to lose weight and become healthier. And that’s where your focus should be!

Sometimes, even with very successful weight loss, there can be unexpected things that come up that maybe you weren’t prepared for or hadn’t thought about. One such issue that can occur is excess or loose skin after significant weight loss. 

Since we want to be totally open and honest about all things related to weight loss surgery at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we will tackle this subject in this article. The possibility of excess or loose skin is nothing to fear!

What Causes Excess or Loose Skin After Weight Loss Surgery?

When you gain weight, your skin expands around the new mass that your body is adding. When you lose weight, your skin may not have enough elasticity to shrink back down. Therefore, excess, loose, or sagging skin can be a result of losing such a significant amount of weight after weight loss surgery, such as gastric sleeve. It does happen to some people, but not everyone.

For those who do have to deal with it, there are solutions and things to know that will hopefully relieve any fears you may have about excess skin after weight loss surgery.

When it comes to how much excess skin you will have, each person is different. The amount of loose skin present after weight loss surgery depends on several factors, such as your weight before surgery, age, smoking history, and genetics. 

To what extent excess skin bothers each person varies as well. It’s totally normal for it to be a big issue for some, while others aren’t bothered by it much at all. A common concern is that saggy skin increases the appearance of premature aging.

The problems that arise from excess skin are not always simply cosmetic though. Excess skin may cause chafing and rashes, especially when it rubs against other folds of skin or when it stays moist. With saggy skin, folds often rub against themselves, and these folds may be harder to keep clean. Over time, the top layer of skin (epidermis) can tear, creating irritation from chafing. This chafing can lead to infections.

Addressing Excess Skin After Weight Loss Surgery

If you’re worried about loose skin after weight loss surgery, whether for health reasons or because you’re concerned about how it may look, there are several ways to minimize sagging skin after surgery. Here are some strategies to think about:

  • Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water — This is crucial after weight loss surgery anyway. A balanced diet with plenty of protein and vitamins can help you keep the weight off and retain lean muscle. This diet may also help minimize loose or excess skin to some degree. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water, which will help keep your skin healthier and may improve elasticity. 
  • Exercise — Exercise can prevent loose skin after weight loss surgery. When you lose lean muscle mass, you may increase the looseness of your skin. When you build muscle, you actually fill out your skin more.
  • Treat your skin well — Your skin is an organ, and if you want to avoid loose skin after weight loss, taking care of it can help. This includes using sunscreen regularly when outdoors, using moisturizers, and drinking plenty of water to keep your whole body hydrated.

If the above strategies aren’t enough, cosmetic surgery is also an option. After losing 100 or 150 pounds, it is realistic to expect that you may still have some excess skin. Cosmetic surgery removes excess skin and fat from the body. A tummy tuck after weight loss surgery is one of the more common procedures. If you’re looking at this option, it’s important to work with a reputable plastic surgeon. The American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons is a good place to start, and we will be happy to make a recommendation as well.

Contact Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery to Get Started on Your Weight Loss Journey

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