More and more Americans are turning to bariatric surgery to help them achieve their weight loss goals and fight their obesity battles. There are several great benefits to doing this, as obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, certain types of cancers, sleep apnea, and many other serious health issues. Two of the most popular weight loss surgeries here in New York are the Lap-Band surgery and the Gastric Sleeve surgery. Today, we’d like to compare these surgeries for patients who may be considering them.

How Surgical Weight Loss Methods Work

With regard to bariatric surgeries, there are three different approaches:

  • Restrictive Surgery: This type of surgery is implemented by altering the size of your stomach and affecting your Ghrelin hormone, which is responsible for those feelings of hunger, so that you feel full sooner when eating.
  • Malabsorptive Surgery: This type of surgery is implemented by altering your digestive tract so fewer calories and nutrients are absorbed by your intestines when you eat and drink.
  • Combination Restrictive/Malabsorptive: These types of surgeries involve a combination of the methods mentioned above.

Both the Gastric Sleeve and Lap-Band surgeries are restrictive in nature. Firstly, we’ll look at the Lap-Band surgery.

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The Lap-Band Surgery

The Lap-Band surgery is a laparoscopic surgery, meaning that your bariatric surgeon makes a few small incisions so that he or she can use internal cameras and specialized surgical tools to perform your surgery without the need for open surgery and large scars. Your bariatric surgeon will carefully place the band around the upper portion of your stomach. After your surgery, you’ll likely need adjustments to your band to address your changing needs.

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The Gastric Sleeve Surgery

The Gastric Sleeve surgery is also laparoscopic and involves your bariatric surgeon revising the size of your stomach. He or she will cut away a portion of your stomach and remove it, leaving a stomach pouch similarly shaped like a banana. The extent of how much of your stomach your bariatric surgeon will need to remove will be discussed during your preoperative consultations. As with the Lap-Band surgery, patients will consume less food and experience fewer feelings of hunger.

How Do These Two Surgeries Compare?

For many patients, the Gastric Sleeve has a number of advantages when compared to the Lap-Band surgery. For example, the Lap-Band surgery can require several surgeries after the first one to ensure proper adjustments and fit, with each band coming at an additional cost on top of the initial bariatric surgery cost.

There are also chances of complications with the Lap-Band surgery one should consider. For example, the Lap-Band may shift or slip, and it can even cut into your stomach tissue. By comparison, the Gastric Sleeve surgery does come with high chances of these complications and has a higher success rate compared to the Lap-Band surgery.

Consider All The Options With Your Bariatric Surgeon In NY

While there are some advantages to certain bariatric surgeries over others, it’s imperative that you don’t just read our blog and form an opinion. Schedule a consultation with our bariatric surgeon, Dr. Rosen, and allow us to walk through all options with you. We’ll help you make the right decision that best fits your needs.

Ask just about anyone and they’ll tell you that weight loss is not easy, especially for people who are considered obese. Getting your weight back within a healthy and comfortable range might seem like an impossible task, but Dr. Rosen and nutritionist Megan Wolf at Weight Zen can help. Our Gastric Bypass surgery in New York is an option available to many who thought they’d never lose the weight they needed to lose.

Before the day of your surgery, you’ll be given a copy of instructions to follow so that you’re prepared for your surgery and recovery.

Preparing For Your Gastric Bypass Surgery

Preparation for your Gastric Bypass surgery will start days in advance of the actual surgery. We need your body to be as healthy as possible in order to undergo surgery, so if you are a smoker, you’ll have to quit at least a month before your the Gastric Bypass. We will also ask you to refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages for at least 48 straight hours prior to your weight loss surgery. If you take any medication, you’ll need make sure to disclose that information to Dr. Rosen during your preoperative consultation.

More Steps To Take To Prepare For Your Gastric Bypass Surgery

  • Fill any medications you’ll need, and purchase all the supplies you’ll use for your recovery before the surgery. It’s also a great idea to set up an area in your home where you can rest after your surgery.
  • Secure a family member or friend who can drive you to and from your Gastric Bypass surgery. You should also have a group of trusted friends who can help you if you need anything while you’re recovering.
  • Pack a small bag to bring with you the day of your Gastric Bypass surgery. This should include your insurance information, your identification, emergency contacts, and any informative or surgical instructions. We do not suggest bringing valuables, such as jewelry or credit cards.

When the day of your Gastric Bypass surgery arrives, make sure to be dressed in comfortable clothes that you can easily put on after the surgery. Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the appointment, park, settle your nerves, and anything else you need to do to feel as comfortable as possible. Following these steps will not only set you up for a successful surgery, you’ll enjoy a successful recovery, too.

Alternative Surgeries

Before we agree to perform any type of bariatric surgery on our patients, we’ll conduct a thorough examination during our consultations to make sure that bariatric surgery is the right option for you. For our patients in New York, Gastric Bypass surgery, Lap Band surgery, Gastric Sleeve surgery, and the Duodenal Switch may be recommended depending on your specific situation.

Schedule An Appointment Today

Are you overwhelmed by the amount of weight you need to lose and would like to know if you’d benefit from Gastric Bypass or some other type of bariatric surgery? Schedule an appointment with Weight Zen today, and let us help you take a step in the right direction.

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Dr. Rosen, a leading bariatric surgeon, has been helping patients achieve results and lose weight quickly and safely through bariatric procedures, such as the Gastric Sleeve surgery in New York. A number of our patients who are interested in Gastric Sleeve surgery also have questions about their celiac disease or gluten allergies. Today, we’ll cover these matters and give a brief overview of what you need to know.

Understanding Gluten

Before we dive into gluten intolerance and celiac disease, let’s first explain what gluten is and give some examples of foods which contain gluten.

What is Gluten?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat and grains such as rye and barley. Gluten is what lends elasticity to dough and gives bread its chewy texture.

What Is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder affecting the digestive tract. If you have celiac disease and eat foods containing gluten, it can result in damage to the lining of your small intestine. Not only can this result in serious digestive problems and anemia, it can cause skin rashes, body pains and cramps, ulcers, and even changes to your menstrual cycle.

Foods to avoid if you have celiac disease:

  • Wheat of any kind
  • Matzo
  • Rye
  • Barley
  • Couscous
  • Semolina
  • Durum
  • Farina
  • Faro
  • Spelt

What’s The Difference Between Celiac Disease & Gluten Intolerance?

There are differences between celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease, while gluten intolerance is simply a heightened sensitivity to products that include gluten. In fact, there’s an entire notion that gluten intolerance may not be a real thing; rather, people are buying into a gluten-free marketing and food fad. However, celiac disease is a real condition that has been scientifically proven to exist.

Can I Undergo Gastric Sleeve Surgery If I Have Celiac Disease?

Yes! You can absolutely undergo Gastric Sleeve surgery if you have celiac disease. Many patients who suffer from celiac disease are also morbidly obese and undergo the Gastric Sleeve surgery in order to effectively lose weight and improve their overall health. The revised diet for those who have undergone any type of bariatric surgery is typically gluten-free, meaning that patients who live with celiac disease will still be able to eat a balanced and healthy diet.

Can Bariatric Surgery Make Me Gluten Intolerant Or Cause Celiac Disease?

There have been some reported cases where patients who have undergone bariatric surgery have developed celiac disease or a gluten intolerance after the procedure. While the exact reason for the condition has yet to be found, some studies suggest that it could be due to the shock to your system from undergoing the surgery.

It should be noted with importance that a procedure such as the Gastric Sleeve surgery involves less revision to your digestive tract and intestines compared to other bariatric surgeries. Additionally, as we mentioned above, should you develop a gluten intolerance after undergoing bariatric surgery, it is not likely that you will notice a severe impact on your dietary habits post-surgery because your recommended diet will typically be gluten-free.

Is The Gastric Sleeve Surgery Right For You?

In order to get the right answers to this question and others, it’s imperative that you schedule a consultation with Dr. Rosen at Weight Zen in New York. We will assess your situation, allow you to ask questions, and give you the answers you need to make a confident decision about your weight loss surgery options. Fill out the below form and we will contact you:

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Dr. Rosen is a leading bariatric surgeon, attracting countless patients seeking bariatric surgery in New York because of his reputation for quality results and care. Here at Weight Zen, not only do we take great care in helping you choose which weight loss procedure is right for you, but we also offer insight into managing the bariatric surgery side effects you may experience and how to reduce possible complications.

Side Effects Are A Natural Part Of The Bariatric Surgery Healing Process

It’s imperative to know that side effects are a natural part of your body’s recovery process and a good sign that your body is healing the way it’s supposed to. Your side effects will be temporary, and you’ll notice them steadily improve as the days and weeks go by.

Complications Are Signs Of A Serious Problem

While side effects are natural, complications are a whole other ballgame and signify serious issues. If side effects aren’t improving or seem to be extremely pronounced, it could be a sign of a larger medical problem not related to the process of regular recovery and healing. Any post-bariatric surgery complications must be addressed as soon as possible.

Make Sure You’re Following Your Pre-Op Instructions Closely

Your bariatric doctor and nutritionist will provide you with pre-operative instructions to prepare you for the surgery and the healing process after, meaning that healing can begin before the first incision is even made. We will suggest avoiding alcoholic beverages, smoking of any kind, certain medications, and a few other things to ensure that you’re in the best health possible before your surgery so that recovery will be speedy and free from complications.

After Your Bariatric Surgery, Be Sure To Ease Into Your New Diet

After you’ve undergone weight loss surgery, you must slowly transition from your liquid diet to solid foods. This process will take weeks, but it is completely worth it. As you recover, your best option to avoid complications and pain is to ease into your new diet slowly. Savor your food, chew it thoroughly, east slowly and make sure that you’re allowing yourself plenty of time to get used to the new sensations your body might be feeling.

Be Cautious With Physical Activity After Bariatric Surgery

After your bariatric surgery, Dr. Rosen may recommend walking around if it’s possible for you to do so. Not only will this help promote healthy blood circulation while healing, it will help you avoid blood clots in your legs as well as other potential complications. This extremely light physical activity is imperative for helping ease side effects. However, you should avoid certain physical activities altogether following your surgery, such as squatting, bending over, sexual activity, heavy lifting, and anything else your doctor recommends.  We see our patients 10 days post-op which is a perfect time for a check in.

How Weight Zen Helps Ensure A Fast, Complication-Free Recovery For Our Patients

The first few days following your bariatric surgery are critical for success and complication prevention. Our bariatric team only uses state-of-the-art medical monitoring technology to ensure that your body begins its healing process properly and without complication. We will also make sure to give you ample postoperative instructions and tips to help with the immediate recovery process, and they’ll make huge differences in your long-term weight loss and wellness.

If you’re interested in more information on bariatric surgery at Weight Zen in New York, give us a call today, or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation. We’re excited to help you!

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Undergoing weight loss surgery means that your body and lifestyle are going to experience a number of changes. Some of the more expected changes can include weight loss, getting slimmer, and generally experiencing better health. There are others that are unexpected, but thankfully they’re manageable. Dr. Rosen and his entire bariatric surgery team in New York understand these issues, which is why we’re taking the time to cover one unexpected change: body temperature fluctuations.

Cold Intolerance

In general, some people just feel colder than others, and this doesn’t always directly relate to body weight. If you often feel colder than others and need a jacket or sweater, it’s possible that you have a condition known as cold intolerance. Cold intolerance has been linked to changes in body fat, resulting in issues regulating body heat.

Feeling Cold After Rapid Weight Loss

When your body loses weight rapidly as a result of bariatric surgery or some other reason, the result is a loss of body fat. This obviously impacts the way a person is insulated from cooler temperatures. When a person is losing weight rapidly, their metabolism also slows down, which can cause issues with overall body temperature regulation, too.

Anemia Can Also Contribute To Feeling Colder Than Usual

After undergoing any kind of bariatric surgery, it is common for patients to become anemic. Anemia, the deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin in your blood, can cause feelings of fatigue and can also contribute to feeling colder than usual.

Why does this happen after weight loss surgery? It mostly occurs due to an iron deficiency. Like we’ve discussed in previous blogs, it’s easy to get an iron deficiency after bariatric surgery, especially if you’ve undergone a malabsorptive surgery, as it can be difficult to get all the iron you need.

Feeling Hotter Than Usual?

While the majority of bariatric surgery patients feel colder than usual, it is common for patients to feel warmer than usual, too. This is typically just your body’s response to a major change in fat storage and weight.

Are These Hot And Cold Sensations Permanent?

No, not necessarily. As your body weight stabilizes, which is normally after 18 to 24 months, you will likely notice the fluctuations in your body temperature subside. We know that it can be a frustrating time, but your body is really good at adapting to change.

What Are Your Options For Addressing These Issues?

Addressing cold intolerance involves addressing the root cause in a realistic and sensible way. If you’re anemic or have issues with iron deficiency, consuming a healthier diet or taking iron supplements will be your best option. During the surgical consultation, we’ll discuss how you can get the most ideal diet for several different nutritional deficiencies. Sometimes you may need to carry a light jacket or sweater with you until your body temperature evens out.

Contact Dr. Rosen At Weight Zen

To learn more about bariatric surgery in New York and all of the potential side effects and challenges you may face, be sure to contact Weight Zen weight loss center today, using the below form. Our team will work with you to meet your needs and enhance your overall health and appearance.

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At Weight Zen, we understand that bariatric surgery is a huge step toward a healthier future. While the journey you embark on is lifelong, we help you by ensuring that you’re moving in the right direction toward a better path. To ensure success, we always go over the side effects and challenges New York patients will experience after their bariatric surgery. After your surgery, as you adjust to your new diet, there may be specific dietary needs that you aren’t meeting for one reason or another. With that in mind, we’re going to discuss nutritional deficiencies after bariatric surgery and how you can avoid them.

Why Do Nutritional Deficiencies Occur After Bariatric Surgery?

In some weight loss surgeries, such as the Duodenal Switch or Gastric Bypass, patients lose weight through a combination of malabsorptive weight loss (limiting your caloric absorption during the digestive process) and restrictive weight loss (limiting your caloric consumption). In the case of malabsorptive weight loss, the food you eat may not be fully digested, leaving you unable to receive of the vitamins and minerals from your meal. This, coupled with changes in your diet, can result in some severe nutritional deficiencies that can lead to diminished or poor health.

Be Mindful Of These Deficiencies

There are a few nutritional deficiencies of which you should be mindful after your bariatric surgery. The most serious ones include:

  • Calcium: Comprising 2 percent of the entire human body, calcium is essential for healthy bones, teeth, proper muscle contractions, nerve function, and blood clotting.
  • Vitamin D: Not only does Vitamin D help with the absorption of important minerals such as zinc, calcium, and magnesium, it also helps with the regulation of insulin and proper immune function.
  • Iron: Your body needs iron to produce myloglobin (in muscle tissue) and hemoglobin (in red blood cells), which helps carry oxygen in your blood.
  • Copper: Not only is copper essential for proper growth and development, it’s also vital for the maintenance of several organs, including your heart, brain, connective tissue, and bones.
  • Zinc: Essential for ensuring that your immune system works properly, zinc is also imperative for cellular growth and cellular division.
  • Vitamin B12: This vitamin is essential for the production of both DNA and RNA, red blood cells, and improving how iron functions in the body.
  • Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid/Folate): This vitamin helps vitamin b12 produce red blood cells, is important to brain health, and can contribute to an overall improved emotional wellness and mental health.

Working Around Deficiencies

We recommend taking dietary supplements on a regular basis to avoid serious nutritional deficiencies. You’ll be able to directly address shortcomings in your diet by taking vitamin supplements, allowing you to lead a healthier lifestyle. Dr. Rosen and nutritionist Megan Wolf will work with you to tailor a supplement program specifically to your needs. This will be assessed during your consultation and planning phases of your bariatric surgery.

Are you ready to take control of your life? Call Weight Zen today and schedule a consultation with our bariatric surgeon and nutritionist . We’ll address your needs and discuss the best option for you.