gastric bypass Archives

What You Thought You Knew About Weight Loss Surgery

Exploring the Myths & Misconceptions of Gastric Bypass, Lap Band & Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Though the number of bariatric surgeries performed in the United States grew in in recent years to almost 180,000 procedures a year, the number of qualifying patients that actually undergo these life-changing surgeries remains at less than one percent, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). With weight loss surgeries proving themselves to be viable, delivering consistently improved long-term results, they remain vastly under-utilized. With a large portion of our population experiencing the symptoms of obesity, why are so few of us choosing to undergo this type of treatment for obesity? Why would so few patients avoid the prospect of surgery when it means a healthier future? The misconceptions that continue to plague the procedures could reveal that answer.

Unfortunately, many of those who could benefit from gastric bypass surgery or another form of bariatric surgery never get past the first stage because of these myths. In an effort to eradicate these misconceptions, we’d like to offer the real facts on weight loss surgery.

The most commonly-held myths about gastric surgery include:

MYTH: Bariatric surgery is just another quick fix with short-lasting results

– FACT: Weight loss surgery should never be entered lightly as it is not a cosmetic procedure that promises out-of-the-world results. It is a serious medical procedure that, when treated properly with aftercare and a change in lifestyle, can deliver life-changing (and life-long) results that benefit the patient by providing relief from a variety of symptoms linked to obesity.

MYTH: Weight loss surgeries are extremely dangerous

– FACT: No invasive surgery or medical procedure is without its risks. Complications can arise with gastric bypass, gastric sleeve or Lap-Band surgery, but they don’t occur at any higher rates than other types of surgeries. With the technological innovations made within the last few years, the occurrence of these complications have dropped significantly and healing time, recovery and pain levels have all been minimized. Additionally, Dr. Rosen is an expert in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. This means we use very small incisions: smaller cuts, faster healing.

MYTH: Those who undergo these surgeries become malnourished afterward

– FACT: Patients who follow Dr. Rosen’s and Megan’s advice regarding nutrition and meal planning experience little to no issues with nutritional values. Where there is a decrease in the natural absorption of vitamins and minerals, today’s nutritional guidance helps patients lead healthy, balanced and robust lives.

MYTH: Insurance won’t pay for weight loss surgery

– FACT: Though the amount of coverage does change between providers and states, many plans do cover weight loss surgeries now. Before scheduling surgery it is important to know exactly what is covered and what is not. Some insurance providers only pay for surgery for those who meet certain health risk requirements. Others will cover bariatric surgery for those who are medically considered obese. Insurance verification is an important step in your care and we are here to help you.

Before you undergo any serious procedure, educate yourself by doing research and asking your doctor and nutritionist any questions you have. Protect yourself by finding out all the information you can, and hopefully using only reliable and trustworthy sources. As a highly respected bariatric clinic in New York City, we strive to ensure our patient’s complete confidence by fully educating them throughout the process, working to remain as transparent and patient-focused as possible. If you believe you may be a candidate for bariatric surgery, call us now for a confidential and comprehensive consultation. We’d be happy to help you start your own personal path to optimal health and wellness.

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September 29, 2016/by Weight Zen

Gastric Bypass Surgery

Meal Plans for Changing Your Diet After Surgery

Finding the right meal plan can be difficult, especially when you have just undergone weight loss surgery. An easy meal plan to follow after weight loss surgery is the Paleo diet. Let’s discuss what this entails and why it can make life a little bit easier for our patients.

Paleo…What exactly is it?

If you have heard about the Paleo diet, you may have heard it referred to by several different names, such as the caveman diet, primal diet, or possibly the stone-age diet. Eat like our hunter-gatherer ancestors. Essentially, what it is, is grass-fed meat, fruit, healthy fats (think avocado, nuts, and seeds), and vegetables. The general idea is to distance yourself from processed foods. You might be asking yourself, “We aren’t cavemen, so why should we eat like them?” Great question! “By following these nutritional guidelines, we put our diet more in line with the evolutionary pressures that shaped our current genetics, which in turn positively influences health and well being,” says Loren Cordain, PhD, professor of health and exercise science at Colorado State University. When it comes to living your new life post surgery, nutrient consumption is key. When consuming strictly meats, veggies, fruits, and healthy fats, you eliminate many of the empty calories typically dictating the American diet. Nutrients are key! Just a little tip for trying your new Paleo plan is to try to limit the starchy vegetables. For example, a great alternative to those heavy mashed potatoes is cauliflower mashed potatoes, not to mention these will allow you to enjoy some of your old favorites while still following the weight loss program set up by Dr. Rosen and Nutritionist Megan Wolf.

Sounds easy…But how much of my time and money will it take?

Two of the most common concerns with the Paleo diet are costs and time. You may be thinking, “That’s a lot of meat, and guess what? Meat is EXPENSIVE.” Here are a few general tips for shopping for the Paleo plan:

Shop for ingredients, not just an easy product. You will eat through that product soon, but those ingredients will allow you to make the same dish, sauce, etc. multiple times.
Try the slow cooker. You can buy a slightly cheaper, tougher piece of meat and turn it into a tender masterpiece. Not to mention, the slow cooker will become your best friend for weekly meal prep.
Try going meatless. No, you will not offend the Paleo guides. This is a perfect time to break out those eggs and get creative. Veggie omelets, anyone? What about turning that sweet potato into a stuffed dream?
We encourage stocking up on some frozen veggies for a quick dinner or snack.
Embrace the seasons! Typically, the produce in season will be cheaper and more nutritious.
Buy in bulk. Initially, there may be a slightly higher investment, but long term you will save money because things like a huge jar of coconut oil or almond butter (two best friends you will make on this new adventure) will last close to a year. Go ahead, and grab the big cart to check out the nearest bulk store.
Here is a BIG one: organic, grass-fed, free-range, and local only when you can. If you can swing it, great! If not, well, it does not change the diet.
Meal prep for the week! You can decide based on your schedule whether this means breakfast, lunch, dinner or all three! Not only will you save money by not dining out, but you can get creative and know you are living out your new weight loss program every day without the stress of having to cook every meal when you might need time to relax instead.

September 27, 2016/by Weight Zen

Gastric Sleeve Surgery

High Blood Pressure? Gastric Sleeve Surgery Can Help

Dr. Rosen is a leader in Gastric Sleeve surgery in New York, attracting patients from all across the state who need surgical weight loss help. Here at Weight Zen, we use state-of-the-art bariatric surgery procedures to help patients lead better and healthier lives and achieve a more ideal body mass.

Did you know that one of the most common health problems related to obesity is high blood pressure? Today, we’ll cover this issue in more detail.

High Blood Pressure & Obesity: What’s The Link?

Many people who are either overweight or obese tend to suffer from high blood pressure or hypertension. While the exact source of hypertension can vary from person to person, secondary hypertension is the type of high blood pressure related to lifestyle, health, and general wellness.

When people are extremely overweight or obese, they tend to have many more hormones circulating in the body, which are manufactured by the kidneys and fatty tissue. In addition to the increase of these hormones in the body, there is an increased volume of blood needed to circulate throughout the body, meaning that there must be increased pressure to keep the extra blood moving.

Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Effective At Treating Hypertension?

Yes! Quite effective.

When an obese or morbidly obese person achieves a more ideal body mass, it can go a long way in lowering his or her blood pressure and help towards alleviating hypertension. This is one of the many reasons why the Gastric Sleeve has become so popular in New York and around the country: because it is so good at improving total wellness.

While the benefits of Gastric Sleeve and other bariatric surgeries are many, remember that the weight loss surgery alone will not completely alleviate your hypertension. Patients will need to lead healthier lifestyles to experience the full benefits of the procedure.

Good Diets Help Lower Blood Pressure After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

After your Gastric Sleeve procedure, it’s imperative to eat a healthy and well-balanced diet in order to receive the nutrition you need to recover and feel your very best. This means eating right and eating smart. Look for foods that will contribute to your heart health and total body wellness, and obviously avoid any junk food and fatty foods that have the potential to clog your arteries, ultimately leading to heart disease.

Exercise Is Also Important For Reducing High Blood Pressure

While you won’t be able to do much physical activity immediately following your Gastric Sleeve surgery, once you’re well on your way to recovery, your bariatric surgeon will be able to recommend some great low impact exercises. Physical activity and exercise is very important as it not only improves the amount of weight you can lose, but it also keeps your weight from coming back while improving your cardiovascular health at the same time.

Weight Zen: Helping Patients Discover New & Healthier Lifestyles

If you suffer from high blood pressure, obesity, or both, Dr. Rosen at Weight Zen is here to help you. As part of your initial consultation, we’ll discuss the best surgical weight loss options for you, what to expect on your new path, your post-bariatric surgery diet, and any exercises that will help you enjoy a full and much healthier life. Contact us today to get started using the below form:

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July 3, 2016/by Weight Zen

Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Can The Gastric Sleeve Surgery Help Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

When it comes to improving your health and overall quality of life, undergoing bariatric surgeries like the Gastric Sleeve procedure at Weight Zen in New York is a great option to consider. Dr. Rosen has helped countless patients reach their weight loss goals and improve their health with state-of-the-art bariatric surgeries. Undergoing such procedures can improve your life in several different ways. With that in mind, let’s explore how the Gastric Sleeve surgery can address your Irritable Bowel Syndrome issues.

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, also known as a spastic colon, is an unfortunate condition that affects the large intestine, causing pain in the abdomen and intestinal discomfort as well as several other serious issues. Sometimes, Irritable Bowel Syndrome is associated with other inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. While the exact cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome can vary from patient to patient, research has found several common links between food allergies, family history, mental stress, and hormonal changes/imbalances.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Cramping
Abdominal discomfort
Excessive gas
Bloating
Diarrhea
Constipation
Mucus in stool

Does Irritable Bowel Syndrome Get Worse Or Better After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Most patients who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome find that after they undergo Gastric Sleeve surgery and other types of bariatric surgery, their IBS improves. In fact, numerous bariatric surgery patients notices that their IBS is no longer a fact for them and their symptoms are greatly reduced. We find that patients who have had issues with IBS in the past often note that they are having regular bowel movements again rather than diarrhea, loose stools, and dry stools after surgery.

Why Does Irritable Bowel Syndrome Improve After Bariatric Surgery?

There are a number of reasons patients may find that their Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms improve. For instance, when patients undergo weight loss surgeries, they end up making quite a few changes to their lifestyles, which impact their overall health and wellness. This can include changes to their diets, overall weights, and modifications to their previously unhealthy lifestyles. All of these improvements and changes can result in a reduction of Irritable Bowel Syndromes and an overall improvement in diet and gastrointestinal health.

The Numerous Health Benefits Related To Gastric Sleeve Surgery

In addition to being an excellent treatment for those suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Gastric Sleeve surgery and other bariatric procedures are a great way to improve your overall weight, treat diabetes, prevent stroke, heart disease, and a number of other serious health concerns later in life.

It’s clear that weight loss surgery has a myriad of benefits other than simply weight loss, and the safety of the procedures performed at Weight Zen means that the risks are usually outweighed by the benefits.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re ready to take the next step in getting your life back and losing the weight you need to lose, call Weight Zen today at (866) 429-5961, or fill out the form below for more information. We’re excited to help you improve your health.

July 1, 2016/by Weight Zen

Gastric Bypass Surgery

Preparing For Gastric Bypass Surgery

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.

June 25, 2016/by Weight Zen

Bariatric Surgery

Preventing Problems And Reducing Side Effects After Bariatric Surgery

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!

June 15, 2016/by Weight Zen

In The News

What’s the impact of race on Bariatric Surgery?

A racy issue

A new study has found that non-Hispanic white patients who underwent gastric bypass typically lost more weight over a three-year period than Hispanic or black patients. Throughout the three-year study period, findings following gastric bypass surgery showed that non-Hispanic white patients lost an average of 63 percent of their excess weight, Hispanic counterparts lost around 59 percent and black patients lost a bit less at around 56 percent (which still reflects a lot of hard work and amazing results!).

While there is little research that explores the impact of bariatric surgery on people of different races and ethnicities, especially in the long term, evidence like this encourages health care professionals to develop culturally sensitive post-op programs to improve success and minimize weight gain.

Click here for more information on Weight Zen post-op support groups.

The weight stigma: it stays and it scars

The obesity stigma continues to grow.

A new study by Western New England University is the first of its kind to use a daily diary assessment of weight stigmatization among 50 overweight and obese women. 1077 stigmatizing events were reported over a week period for a daily average of 3.08 events per individual. Participants most frequently experienced “physical barriers” (84 percent), “nasty comments from others” (74 percent), “being stared at” (72 percent) and “others making negative assumptions” (72 percent).

At Weight Zen our goal is to help you overcome this stigma. That’s why we don’t believe obesity is anyone’s “fault” and that it’s a failure if you don’t simply “try harder”. Find out more about our free Bariatric Surgery seminars for more information and let us know what you think about the obesity stigma on our Facebook page.

Weight management VS Bariatric Surgery: Not an “either/or” solution

Both of these paths require intense and strict lifestyle changes. Both of these paths improve obese diabetic patients’ physical and mental health. But Bariatric Surgery leads to a greater reduction in adverse effects of obesity on quality of life when compared to dieting and exercising alone. That said, significant lifestyle changes need to me upheld for all post-operative Bariatric Surgery patients.

In a meeting at the International Society of Endocrinology and the Endocrine Society, researchers presented results showing that up to two years after treatment, patients who underwent gastric bypass surgery had nearly twice the improvement (reduction) in the adverse effects of weight on their quality of life, which correlated with the greater amount of weight they lost. Two years after treatment, the surgical patients lost an average of 64.4 pounds versus 11 pounds in the weight management group (which consisted of exercise, diet with meal replacements, 12 initial weekly group sessions and nine additional months of individual counselling).

Is Melissa McCarthy setting the right example?

McCarthy on the cover of July’s Rolling Stone.

She’s funny, fearless and can demand millions at the Box Office. For many, she’s an inspiration to live a confident and fulfilled life that goes against the grain. But do you agree with what the Rolling Stones July cover girl has said about her self-destructive habits? “I could eat healthier, I could drink less,” she says. “I should be learning another language and working out more, but I’m just always saying, ‘Ah, I could get hit by a bus tomorrow.’”

Do you agree? Many of you have come to us with concerns about your health and how it affects your time with your children, grandchildren and what it means for your future. Tell us what you think on our Facebook page.

Picture perfect for Presidency?

For better or worse, the jury’s still out on Christie’s weight.

While mum’s the word on Chris Christie’s actual weight loss, media speculation has been strong since his admission of having Lap Band Surgery last year.

Experts from Yale University’s School of Medicine, estimated that, based on the photos, in 2011 Christie weighed about 322 pounds, giving him a BMI of 45 and therefore making him morbidly obese. In the photos taken in 2014, the doctors said Christie appears to be roughly 236 pounds, giving him a BMI of 33.

With Christie now climbing in the polls and catching up to Hillary Clinton, do you think this is a case of public double standards on weight or is Christie a prime example of shaking off the weight stigma? Tell us what you think on Facebook.

In The News

July 2, 2014/by Weight Zen

Tag Archive for: gastric bypass