| Who is a
candidate for bariatric surgery? |
| |
We follow the guidelines
of the ASBS and SAGES.
The following patients are accepted
as candidates for bariatric surgery:
- Patients between
the ages of 16 to 75 years old
- Patients with a BMI of
35 or greater with co-morbid conditions ( those illnesses
associated with obesity such as diabetes,
sleep apnea, high blood pressure…).
|
| What procedures
do our doctors perform? |
| |
Laparoscopic Roux-en-y gastric
bypass, Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding, and Laparoscopic
Sleeve Gastrectomies. Aside from primary procedures, our doctors
welcome Revisional surgeries as well. Due to unavoidable circumstances,
although unlikely, with every laparosocopic surgery, there
is always a possibility that the procedure would have to be
completed as an open. |
| Do the
doctors remove my gallbladder? |
| |
Our doctors feel it is unnecessary to remove your
gallbladder unless there are signs & symptoms. You will however,
be treated post operatively with medication to decrease the risk
of developing gall stone disease. |
| |
| How long
will I be hospitalized? |
| |
The usual stay is 1-2 days depending on which laparoscopic
procedure. |
| When may
I return to work? |
| |
Usually, it depends upon the type of work you perform.
If sedentary, most patients are able to return to work in 2-3
weeks and up to 4-6 weeks if physical labor is involved. |
| Will I lose
my hair? |
| |
Patients may experience hair loss or hair thinning
within 4-8 months post op. However, this is usually a temporary
condition and our staff can provide medical assistance with this
matter. |
| What is
the mortality rate? |
| |
The national mortality rate is .5% or 1 out of
every 200 patients. |
| |
| How will
my diet change? |
| |
The quantity of food will change significantly,
initially consuming 1⁄4 cup to 1⁄2 cup of protein
3 times a day. You will also be unable to tolerate certain foods
especially those containing sugar. You will be required to meet
with a nutritionist and will be provided with a comprehensive
diet. |
| What vitamins
are necessary after surgery? |
| |
Vitamins are required for the rest of your life
after Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy. In case of the Gastric
Banding, no vitamins are necessary. Immediately after surgery
you will begin taking a chewable multi-vitamin daily. After one
month you will add vitamin b12 and calcium citrate. |
| Is plastic
surgery necessary after significant weight loss? |
| |
Plastic surgery is often necessary due to redundant
skin after substantial weight loss. |
| What is
the average weight lost after bariatric surgery? |
| |
Typically, at 3 months 35% of your excess weight
is lost; 60% at 6 months and 75% at 12 months for the gastric
bypass. Statistics for the gastric band and sleeve are pending. |
| Is pregnancy
possible after surgery? |
| |
Yes. In fact, bariatric surgery often increases
fertility in those whom have had difficulty conceiving in the
past. However, pregnancy must be avoided for 12-18 months post
operatively, until your weight has stabilized. |
| |
|
