Author: jefftormey

Reasons and Remedies for Back Pain After Gastric Sleeve

Written by jefftormey on March 11, 2024. Posted in Gastric Sleeve Surgery. No Comments on Reasons and Remedies for Back Pain After Gastric Sleeve

A gastric sleeve procedure is one of the most effective ways to battle obesity and weight-related complications. However, like any other surgery, there are some side effects to watch out for, like back pain. You want your recovery journey to go smoothly, so you should know the causes and remedies for back pain after gastric sleeve. Here are reasons for back pain post-gastric sleeve and their solutions.

Posture Changes

Undergoing a weight-loss procedure changes your body’s center of mass and posture because of the lost weight. With these alterations come spine alignment issues, which is one reason you may experience pain in your back. Luckily, this can be prevented if you can improve your posture. Some patients use a posture brace that helps them sit and stand properly without slouching.

Muscle Weakness

Rapid weight loss also affects your muscles. The more weight you lose, the more you undergo muscle loss; that drastic change may take a toll on the spine, causing back problems. The good news is that this, too, can be corrected. Exercising is one sure way to build up your muscle mass. Cardio and weight lifting go a long way to help, and to improve your chances, consider adding more protein to your diet.

Nutritional Deficiency

Gastric sleeve involves removing a large part of your stomach, which means that patients may be at risk of nutrient deficiencies. Are you wondering why your back hurts after gastric sleeve surgery and how that is connected to nutrition? Since there is reduced food intake, malabsorption also occurs, and with that, your body doesn’t take in as many minerals and vitamins. Lacking calcium and Vitamin D, vital for your bone health, can cause back pain. To remedy this, consider eating more nutrient-rich foods and supplement them with vitamins under your doctor’s guidance.

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

Due to the procedure, you may also develop GERD post-surgery. This is caused when the acids in the stomach travel up the esophagus, otherwise called acid reflux. It can be quite painful and uncomfortable; in some cases, you can even feel the pain in your back. There are prescription drugs for this that you can take, so consult with your doctor for remedies.

Managing Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Like many other gastric sleeve side effects, back pain is only temporary. The more you heal and take care of yourself, the more the symptoms reduce. You should be back to your normal life in no time. All you need is professional guidance after your gastric bypass surgery in NYC to deal with and get rid of the pain. Contact us at Lenox Hill Bariatric Surgery Program for more ways to manage back pain after gastric sleeve surgery.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor About Weight Loss Surgery

Written by jefftormey on March 8, 2024. Posted in Weight Loss Surgery. No Comments on Questions To Ask Your Doctor About Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery is one of the most effective solutions to help you kickstart your journey to a healthy lifestyle. You probably have many questions and concerns if you are just hearing about it. The following are the most common questions to ask about bariatric surgery.

Am I a Good Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?

One of the first questions to ask is the eligibility criteria. Generally, you must be 16–70 years old to be a good candidate for surgery. You should also be recognized as morbidly obese, meaning your BMI (Body Mass Index) should be 40 or more. However, there are a few exceptions to these rules, so check with your doctor to confirm.

What Are the Available Bariatric Surgery Options?

If you are eligible for the surgery, you can now consult to find the best option for you. There are four types available.

Gastric bypass. This involves partitioning the stomach into two parts to reduce its size and redirect how food flows.
Gastric sleeve. Here, the stomach is separated and removed, reducing its size and making you feel full faster.
Gastric band/lap band. Surgery involves using a rubber ring with an inflatable balloon in your stomach to reduce the capacity.
Duodenal switch. It is a modification of the gastric sleeve where the surgeons place a valve to release food into the intestines.

How Much Weight Should I Expect To Lose?

The outcome of the procedure usually varies based on the patient. However, in most cases, you will likely lose 30–40% of your excess weight after bariatric surgery in NY. The amount of weight loss depends on the procedure and the individual.

Are There Any Risks?

Again, the risks to expect vary according to the procedure. Some of the most common include kidney stones, acid reflux, back pain, and ulcers. However, these are temporary and go away with time and proper medication. You have to exercise and watch your nutrition post-surgery; otherwise, there is a risk of not losing the weight you intend or regaining the weight you have lost.

How Long Does It Take To Heal After Bariatric Surgery?

You can leave the hospital days after surgery, and in 4–6 weeks, you should be back on your feet doing everyday tasks. You can start light exercising, gradually increasing the intensity, and remember to make dietary changes. However, for concerns like whether you are ready for pregnancy, remember to consult with your doctor first.

Talk To Your Doctor Before Bariatric Surgery

There are many questions to ask a bariatric surgeon, and you need an expert opinion before starting the journey. Contact our experienced surgeons at Lenox Hill Bariatric Surgery Program to guide you before, during, and after surgery for a successful procedure.

Is It Okay To Chew Gum After Bariatric Surgery?

Written by jefftormey on March 6, 2024. Posted in Bariatric Surgery. No Comments on Is It Okay To Chew Gum After Bariatric Surgery?

You have likely heard that chewing gum is one way to help lose weight because it keeps your mouth occupied, reducing your calorie intake. You can’t help but wonder, can you chew gum after bariatric surgery? Read on to find out.

What Happens When You Chew Gum After Weight Loss Surgery?

Chewing gum, especially after a bariatric procedure, is not recommended. Here’s why:

It Contains High Sugar Levels

Reducing the amount of calories is a plus for weight loss, but gum is not a healthy choice. Most products contain too much sugar, sometimes more than 2g in a single stick. Eating more gum a day means consuming more sugar, which is the last thing you want to do when trying to lose weight.

It Causes Bloating

To avoid consuming a lot of sugar through chewing gum, you may opt for calorie-free alternatives, but those, too, are not recommended. When you keep chewing and not eating, chances are high that you take in a lot of air in the process.

The air goes into the digestive system, which is terrible if you have recently had bariatric surgery. For one, the pressure in the stomach increases, which interferes with the recovery process. Secondly, gas builds up, causing pain.

It Irritates the Digestive System

You already know that your digestive tract undergoes several changes post-surgery, and chewing doesn’t help the body adjust. It causes enzyme secretion, which stimulates the bowels and, in turn, causes side effects like diarrhea.

It Stimulates Appetite

The goal of bariatric surgery is to reduce your craving for food and lower your appetite. However, you notice that chewing on an empty stomach only worsens it because it stimulates your appetite, making you hungry, meaning more food intake.

It May Cause Blockage

This may not be a serious concern for many because not everyone intentionally swallows up gum, but if that happens, then it becomes a problem. As a patient who has recently had alterations to their digestive system, doctors recommend that you properly chew your food. Since gum doesn’t digest like other food particles, swallowing it can block your bowels and, in severe cases, mean a trip back to the doctor to remove it.

Talk To Your Doctor About What You Eat After Gastric Sleeve Procedure

You can chew gum weeks after gastric sleeve, as long as it is sugar-free, but you have to be cautious because of the potential risks. Surgeons advise that you not do it, and as a patient, you would rather not risk it. Chewing gum is not worth it if you want your bariatric surgery in New York to be successful. Contact us at Lenox Hill Hospital for advice about bariatric surgery recovery.

What To Know About Exercising After Bariatric Surgery

Written by jefftormey on March 4, 2024. Posted in Bariatric Surgery.

Exercise is one of the most crucial steps to a successful weight-loss journey. You may have several questions about exercise post bariatric surgery, like when is the best time to start and what are the safest routines. Read on for answers to these and other questions.

Why Exercise After Bariatric Surgery?

Working out is crucial for your weight loss journey, even after surgery. For one, it helps enhance muscle strength and preserves lean muscle mass. Secondly, it is crucial for your bone health, making them stronger and more stable. Patients may also have issues with loose skin after surgery, and the best way to improve the skin’s elasticity is by exercising. Also, working out helps you keep your weight in check while keeping weight-related diseases at bay.

When Is the Right Time To Exercise?

Surgeons recommend that exercise is safe two weeks post-surgery. However, immediately after healing from the procedure, it is expected to feel sore and a little uncomfortable. So, as soon as you can get back on your feet, you can start with little movements, like taking a 5–10 minute walk a couple of times a day. The more you heal, the more you can push your body to start more physical activity, as long as you don’t overdo it. You can stop when you feel uncomfortable and consult your doctor.

What Exercises Are Safe?

You start with simple walking exercises after surgery. 5–10 minutes a day each time will do, even indoors, right from your house, as long as you keep moving. Water aerobics and swimming are also top recommendations because they don’t strain your joints. You can also try riding a bike after one month.

Within the first 6 months, you can do 30 minutes of aerobics 3–5 times a week and lift small weights. After that, it is safe to incorporate strength training, gradually increasing your muscle movements, and trying 45 minutes of aerobics 4 times a week.

What Else To Know About Exercises After Surgery

Note that you should avoid any exercises that need extra balance. Surgery affects your body’s center of balance, all thanks to the lost weight, meaning your stability will be off. Squats and lunges are such exercises that you must avoid, especially in the first 6 months post-surgery. Lastly, remember that your diet should also improve while trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Plan on Exercising after Bariatric Surgery

For a successful and holistic weight loss journey, you must include exercise and dietary changes into your lifestyle. New York bariatric surgery at Lenox Hill Bariatric Surgery Program is the first step, but you must keep the weight off in the long run by adjusting your diet and incorporating daily physical movement into your day.

A Man in A Blue Shirt Covering His Mouth

What Causes Bad Breath After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Written by jefftormey on February 16, 2024. Posted in Gastric Sleeve Surgery. No Comments on What Causes Bad Breath After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Have you or someone you know undergone a gastric sleeve procedure? If so, you need to understand the road to recovery in the first few weeks comes with a few challenges, including one common one: halitosis or bad breath. Luckily, this side effect doesn’t last that long. So, what causes bad breath after bariatric surgery?

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

When undergoing a gastric sleeve, a large part of the stomach is removed, and in turn, there is less space for the food to go through the digestive tract. It must travel quite slowly and sometimes gets stuck in the process, leading to acid buildup in the stomach. The more the acid flows back and up into the mouth, the more it causes bad breath.

There is good news about this, however. It is treatable and is only a minor side effect that goes away after some time. There are prescription drugs you can take to reduce the condition, and luckily, the more you recover, the more your body gets used to the new stomach and finds natural ways to avoid acid reflux.

Ketosis

The state of ketosis in your body, which happens when the body opts to burn fat instead of glucose, changes after bariatric surgery. This is one of the wins of the procedure because it helps you drastically lose weight. However, in the process, the body releases ketones containing acetone as a by-product, an element known to have a fruity smell that can be considered foul.

Dehydration

Many patients suffer from bad breath after gastric sleeve surgery due to dehydration. You may forget to drink water because of your diet changes; you feel full faster and only intake small amounts of water. When this happens, it is challenging to rinse away bacteria, leaving the odor in your mouth.

Fortunately, a few tips help reduce the chances of bad breath after your surgery.

Maintain drinking the recommended eight glasses of water throughout the day in spaced-out amounts.
Avoid eating acidic meals and fizzy drinks, and have antacid tablets around.
Brush and floss your teeth after every meal, and clean your tongue.
Chew sugar-free gum throughout the day to help produce saliva to fight off bacteria in your mouth.

Contact an Expert for Your Bariatric Surgery

When you have a trusted team of NYC bariatric surgery experts from Lenox Hill Hospital on your side, you never have to worry about side effects of the procedure, like bad breath. You have experts to guide you through surgery preparation, the surgery, and recovery.

What To Know About Iron Deficiency After Gastric Surgery

Written by jefftormey on February 14, 2024. Posted in Gastric Bypass Surgery. No Comments on What To Know About Iron Deficiency After Gastric Surgery

The risk of certain side effects is one of the reasons why there is an emphasis on getting enough support after bariatric surgery. Paying attention to illnesses caused by dietary changes you make is vital. In this case, the focus is on one such condition, anemia. Read on to learn how iron deficiency and gastric bypass are connected.

Causes of Iron Deficiency After Gastric Bypass

Anemia is caused after bariatric surgery due to the digestive system’s physical changes, particularly the bypassing of the duodenum. Here is where iron is absorbed by the body, so bypassing it means that the system will have issues dissolving this crucial mineral. Since iron-rich foods like meat and grains may not provide the required iron levels like they usually do, you must seek alternatives as well as incorporate other iron-rich foods.

How Do You Detect Gastric Bypass Iron Deficiency?

Iron is a crucial mineral that helps keep your hair, nails, and skin healthy. Besides that, it is also vital for the formation of hemoglobin, the content in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. The common symptoms of anemia include:

Fatigue and general body weakness
Frequent running out of breath
Chest pains
Cold hands and feet
Migraines
Dizziness
Increased heart rate
Hair loss
Nail breakage
Paleness

How Is Iron Deficiency After Surgery Treated?

When you notice the symptoms discussed above and see a specialist, they can diagnose it by checking the hemoglobin levels in your red cells. Additionally, if blood is in your stool, a colonoscopy and other imaging tests will help detect the source of the blood. You may need an urgent blood transfusion to regain blood-rich cells if confirmed to be severe.

In the meantime, you should make some dietary changes, incorporating iron-rich foods into your diet. Mineral supplements will also help you take a prescription from your doctor.

Can You Prevent Iron Deficiency After Gastric Bypass?

Before your gastric bypass surgery in NYC, the doctors will explain the side effects. If you have any mineral deficiency disorders, you will need immediate treatment before the procedure because if not, the condition will only worsen after surgery. During recovery, you should also consider monitoring your iron levels alongside other nutrients. Your doctor will take readings six months after the surgery and at least once annually later on.

Gastric bypass and low iron tend to go together based on the nature of bariatric surgery. Therefore, you need the services of qualified doctors at Lenox Hill Hospital, NYC, to help you get through the recovery with optimum iron levels.

Causes and Treatment of Ulcers After Gastric Bypass Surgery

Written by jefftormey on February 12, 2024. Posted in Gastric Bypass Surgery. No Comments on Causes and Treatment of Ulcers After Gastric Bypass Surgery

Ulcers are painful sores in the lining of the stomach that lead to bleeding and sometimes perforation. Ulcers after gastric bypass surgery are rare, but it helps to know the causes, types, treatment, and prevention before you undergo the procedure.

What Causes Ulcers After Bypass Surgery?

The actual cause of gastric bypass ulcers is quite elusive, but surgeons state that it may be due to increased production of acids after the procedure. There are also speculations that it is caused by gastric irritations from food, drinks, and drugs like ibuprofen, Aleve, Motrin, aspirin, naproxen, and other NSAIDs (Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs).

Additionally, h-pylori bacteria in the gut could increase the chances of developing ulcers. Smoking patients are also at risk of developing ulcer symptoms when blood is restricted from flowing into the stomach.

Types of Ulcers After Bypass Surgery

The common symptoms of an ulcer after gastric bypass include loss of appetite, abdominal pain, gas, nausea, vomiting, and blood in the stool. The rerouting of the intestines can cause two main types of ulcers in a patient: duodenum or jejunum ulcers. Duodenum ulcers are rare and are caused by erosion of the coating on the remaining stomach; these can be treated endoscopically. On the other hand, jejunum (marginal) ulcer forms due to erosion on the jejunal part a few centimeters into the anastomosis; this rarely occurs in the actual gastric pouch.

Treatment and Prevention of Ulcers Caused By Gastric Bypass

Luckily, most ulcers after surgeries heal naturally, leaving you without any complications. However, there are still instances where they become chronic and require urgent surgical or non-surgical treatment. For example, there are prescribed medications that effectively prevent acid production in the stomach.

Alternatively, in severe cases with perforations and wounds in the system, surgeons must operate. Before it gets to that, there are preventative measures that surgeons take. For instance, they can reduce the pouch size to lower acid levels or opt for absorbable sutures to prevent ulcerations.

You also have a role to play to avoid post-surgery ulcers. It helps to make lifestyle changes like eating healthy, drinking water, exercising, reducing stress levels, and avoiding fizzy drinks, alcohol, and smoking.

Rely on Your Doctor’s Recommendation

Gastric bypass and stomach ulcers are connected unless you strictly follow instructions from your doctor. Prevention is the safest route, and you can do that by being proactive, living a healthy lifestyle, and going for checkups often. If you detect any symptoms discussed above after gastric bypass in Manhattan, immediately consult us at Lenox Hill Hospital to address the underlying issue and avoid more severe complications.

Can You Take Gummy Vitamins After Bariatric Surgery?

Written by jefftormey on February 8, 2024. Posted in Bariatric Surgery. No Comments on Can You Take Gummy Vitamins After Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure that comes with changes in your lifestyle, especially your diet. Due to appetite changes post-surgery, vitamin deficiencies are common, which may lead you to wonder whether gummy vitamins after bariatric surgery are a good idea.

What Makes Gummy Vitamins Appealing for Bariatric Patients?

Bariatric surgery involves alterations in your digestive organs, ensuring you feel fuller faster by reducing your appetite and food intake. On the downside, this may put you at risk of vitamin deficiencies. Some medicines are also known to interfere with the absorption of vital elements, which makes gummy vitamins quite appealing to patients.

For starters, what are gummy vitamins? These special chewy candies contain vitamins B and C, folic acid, and other water-soluble nutrients. They come in various shapes, colors, sizes, and flavors and are easy to consume, especially for people who have a hard time swallowing pills. Generally, they are safe to eat but are not recommended for people with celiac disease and bariatric surgery patients.

Why Gummy Vitamins Are a Bad Idea After Bariatric Surgery?

Your body needs vitamins after weight loss surgery, especially after a bariatric procedure when your appetite is reduced and you consume fewer calories. Although gummy vitamins for bariatric patients sound enticing, experts strongly advise against them. Here’s why.

High sugar content

One of the main reasons why you should avoid gummies is because they have high sugar levels. This means that the calories are too high, which is the last thing you want after surgery because of the counterproductive effects on your body.

Absorption issues

Another concern with vitamin gummies is that they are not easily absorbed into the body. Now imagine how hard it will be to benefit from them if you are a bariatric patient whose digestive system is now altered.

Low nutrient content

Gummies lack fortification with the nutrients you need as a bariatric patient. Many lack iron, calcium, iodine, chromium, and selenium, which are crucial for patients to maintain their health after surgery. These chewables also contain unnecessary preservatives and sugars the body doesn’t need.

Dental issues

Dentists worldwide advocate against excessive sugar and sweets because of the dangers they pose to your dental health. Gummy vitamins are not recommended, considering how they cling to your teeth and increase the chances of cavities. So, apart from your digestive health, vitamin gummies are also bad for your teeth.

Speak to a Professional

New York bariatric surgery professionals from Lenox Hill Hospital will tell you the dos and don’ts after bariatric surgery. You need all the nutrients you can get after the procedure, and there are better vitamin alternatives than gummies that will help you get back on track to lead a normal, healthy life.

Adapting Through Stagnation: Effective Strategies to Overcome Post-Gastric Sleeve Weight Loss Plateaus

Written by jefftormey on January 31, 2024. Posted in Gastric Sleeve Surgery. No Comments on Adapting Through Stagnation: Effective Strategies to Overcome Post-Gastric Sleeve Weight Loss Plateaus

Experiencing a weight loss plateau after gastric sleeve surgery can be disheartening. It’s a common phase where the scale refuses to budge, leaving many to wonder about the effectiveness of their efforts. This article aims to provide actionable strategies to overcome this challenge.

Understanding the Plateau

Typically, a gastric sleeve weight loss plateau is experienced within three to twelve months following the surgery. It’s a natural response of the body, adjusting to the rapid changes it undergoes. Recognizing this as a normal phase in your journey is crucial for maintaining motivation and focus.

Tackling the Plateau: Practical Tips

Prioritize Protein

Protein is your ally in this battle. A high-protein diet helps preserve muscle mass, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy metabolism. Opt for lean meats, nuts, beans, and low-fat dairy products. This approach is essential in breaking a stall after gastric sleeve surgery.

Muscle Building

Exercise is non-negotiable. It’s not just about losing weight—it’s about reshaping your body and health. Incorporate strength training to build muscle, which in turn helps burn more calories, even at rest.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration plays a pivotal role in metabolic processes. Aim for at least 64 ounces of water daily, but remember to time your drinking around your meals to avoid overfilling your smaller stomach.

Meal Frequency

Consider adjusting your meal schedule. Smaller, more frequent meals can prevent your body from entering a ‘hibernation state’, a common cause of bariatric surgery weight loss plateaus.

Beyond the Basics

Remember, each journey is unique. Regularly measure your progress in ways other than the scale, like body measurements or how your clothes fit. Stay connected with your dietitian and support groups for personalized advice and motivation.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

While breaking a 3-week stall after gastric sleeve can be challenging, it’s a conquerable part of your journey. Patience, persistence, and slight adjustments to your lifestyle can reignite your weight loss journey. Overcoming a gastric sleeve weight loss plateau is not just about getting past a temporary hurdle—it’s part of a transformative process that offers numerous health and lifestyle benefits.

Take the Next Step

If you find yourself at a standstill with a weight loss plateau after gastric sleeve, know that you have a strong support system. The team at Lenox Hill Bariatric Surgery Program is committed to guiding and assisting you at every stage of your weight loss journey. For personalized guidance and to learn more about gastric sleeve in New York procedures, contact us and schedule your consultation now.

Rethinking Gastric Sleeve Surgery: Is Reversal an Option?

Written by jefftormey on January 24, 2024. Posted in Gastric Sleeve Surgery. No Comments on Rethinking Gastric Sleeve Surgery: Is Reversal an Option?

Weight loss journeys often lead to the path of bariatric surgery, with gastric sleeve surgery being a popular choice. However, a critical question arises: Is endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty reversible? This article explores the intricacies of sleeve gastrectomy and its potential for reversal.

Understanding Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a procedure where a significant portion of the stomach is removed. This transformation creates a sleeve-like structure, drastically reducing the stomach’s capacity. The primary goal is to limit food intake to promote significant weight loss.

Is Sleeve Gastrectomy Reversible?

A common misconception is that bariatric surgeries like gastric sleeve surgery offer a reversible solution. However, this is not the case. The nature of sleeve gastrectomy involves the permanent removal of a large part of the stomach, making reversal impossible.

Alternatives to Reversal

While direct reversal of gastric sleeve surgery is not feasible, alternative procedures exist. For instance, patients experiencing severe complications or inadequate weight loss might consider conversion to gastric bypass or duodenal switch surgeries. These options, while not reversing the original procedure, offer different mechanisms for weight management.

Why Consider Reversal or Conversion?

Patients might contemplate the reversal or conversion of gastric sleeve surgery for various reasons. Persistent severe heartburn or insufficient weight loss are two primary concerns that might lead to considering alternative surgical options.

The Final Verdict on Reversibility

In conclusion, is the gastric sleeve reversible? The straightforward answer is no. Gastric sleeve surgery, once performed, is a permanent alteration to the digestive system. However, other surgical options can modify or enhance the initial results for patients facing complications or seeking further weight loss.

Understanding the Distinction: Gastric Sleeve vs. Gastric Bypass

When considering bariatric surgery, it’s crucial to understand the key differences between gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass. Each procedure has unique aspects and implications for weight loss and health. Gastric sleeve surgery, involving the removal of a portion of the stomach, focuses primarily on reducing stomach size to limit food intake. In contrast, gastric bypass not only reduces stomach size but also reroutes the digestive tract, impacting nutrient absorption and offering a dual mechanism for weight loss. This distinction is vital for patients weighing their surgical options, especially when considering long-term effects and lifestyle changes post-surgery.

Take the Next Step

If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery in NYC, we are here to guide you. With comprehensive care and expert advice, they can help you make informed decisions about your weight loss journey. Learn more about gastric sleeve surgery and start your transformation today.