A pre-surgery diet prepares the body for bariatric surgery, typically focusing on reducing liver size and overall fat to make the procedure safer. This high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet often lasts for 1-2 weeks before surgery. Patients must follow a strict plan of liquids and protein shakes to shrink the liver and facilitate surgery.

Lap band removal is necessary for patients experiencing complications or insufficient weight loss from their adjustable gastric band. Common reasons include slippage, erosion, infection, or intolerance to the band. The removal procedure is typically straightforward, and patients may choose to undergo a different bariatric procedure, such as a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass.

The Roux-en-Y procedure is a type of gastric bypass surgery where the stomach is divided into a small pouch, and part of the small intestine is rerouted to the new pouch. This reduces both food intake and nutrient absorption, leading to significant weight loss and improvements in obesity-related health conditions.

The cost of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery varies based on location, healthcare provider, and whether the patient has insurance coverage. In the U.S., the cost ranges from $20,000 to $30,000, depending on the hospital and specific circumstances. In countries with public healthcare systems, such as the UK or Canada, the surgery may be covered, though waiting times could be long. Many insurance companies in the U.S. cover bariatric surgery if it’s deemed medically necessary, but patients must meet specific... +More

The post-op sleeve diet is vital for healing and weight loss after sleeve gastrectomy. It begins with liquids, followed by pureed foods, and eventually includes solid foods. Protein intake is prioritized, and patients must avoid high-fat, high-sugar foods to prevent complications like nausea or dumping syndrome.

The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is a common bariatric surgery where the stomach is divided into a small upper pouch and a larger lower portion. The small intestine is then rearranged to connect with the new stomach pouch. This procedure reduces food intake and limits calorie absorption, making it highly effective for weight loss.

In the UK, gastric sleeve surgery is available through the National Health Service (NHS) for patients who meet specific criteria, such as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40 or over 35 with obesity-related health conditions. Private options are also available, and the cost typically ranges from £8,000 to £12,000.

Most abdominal surgeries in Turkey, including complex procedures like bowel resections or liver surgeries, may require extended hospital stays of up to two weeks. The length of stay depends on the type of surgery, the patient’s recovery progress, and whether there are any complications. Bariatric surgeries, however, usually require a hospital stay of only 1-4 days.

A tummy specialist is a colloquial term for a gastroenterologist, a doctor specializing in diseases affecting the digestive system. Patients with stomach pain, bloating, or gastrointestinal issues like ulcers or acid reflux often seek their expertise for diagnosis and treatment.

In the UK, prescription slimming pills like Orlistat are available to help with weight loss, particularly for individuals with a high BMI. These pills work by reducing fat absorption in the digestive system. Over-the-counter slimming aids are also available but may not be as effective or safe without professional guidance.

An abdominal tumor is any abnormal growth located within the abdomen. Tumors can originate from the stomach, intestines, liver, or other abdominal organs. They can be benign or malignant, and treatment often involves surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the tumor's size, type, and stage.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and gastritis are two distinct conditions, though both cause abdominal discomfort. IBS is a chronic condition affecting the large intestine, while gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining. Both can be triggered by stress, poor diet, or infections, and treatment usually involves dietary adjustments and medications to manage symptoms.

A partial gastrectomy is a surgical procedure where part of the stomach is removed, often due to stomach cancer, ulcers, or other severe gastric issues. This procedure reduces the size of the stomach, leading to reduced food intake, but it also requires significant dietary changes after surgery.

Gastric band surgery involves placing an adjustable band around the upper portion of the stomach, limiting food intake and promoting weight loss. This procedure is reversible and less invasive than other bariatric surgeries. It’s available privately and occasionally through the NHS for eligible patients.

RNY (Roux-en-Y) gastric bypass and the gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy) are two of the most common bariatric surgeries. While both procedures restrict the stomach’s size, the RNY bypass also reroutes part of the small intestine, reducing calorie absorption. The sleeve removes a large portion of the stomach without altering the intestines. The choice between the two depends on the patient’s health, goals, and surgeon recommendations.

The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is another highly effective bariatric surgery offered in Turkey. In this procedure, the stomach is divided into a small upper pouch and connected directly to the small intestine, bypassing a large portion of the stomach and intestines. This surgery is ideal for those with severe obesity or related health conditions like diabetes and has a high success rate in terms of weight loss.

The bariatric diet is essential for patients who have undergone weight-loss surgery. It’s designed to provide adequate nutrition while supporting weight loss. The diet includes small, protein-rich meals, limited carbohydrates, and restricted fats and sugars. Lifelong adherence to this diet, along with vitamin supplements, is necessary for maintaining health after bariatric surgery.

The cost of a gastric band varies by country and healthcare system. In the UK, it can cost between £5,000 to £8,000 privately, while in the U.S., it ranges from $9,000 to $15,000. Some insurance plans may cover the procedure if it's deemed medically necessary for obesity treatment.

The long-term effects of sleeve gastrectomy include sustained weight loss, improvement or resolution of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. However, patients may also experience long-term nutritional deficiencies, requiring them to take supplements like vitamin B12, calcium, and iron. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is essential to monitor these effects.

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a non-surgical weight-loss procedure where a gastroenterologist uses an endoscope to stitch the stomach into a smaller size, reducing its capacity. Unlike traditional bariatric surgery, ESG is performed through the mouth and doesn’t involve cutting or removing any part of the stomach. Recovery is quicker, and the procedure is reversible, but the weight loss achieved is typically less significant than with RNY or gastric sleeve surgery.

The safest form of weight-loss surgery is typically considered to be gastric sleeve surgery due to its relatively simple procedure and lower risk of complications. However, the choice of surgery should be tailored to the patient’s health needs and obesity level, as procedures like gastric bypass may be more effective for certain patients.

An infection in the stomach is commonly caused by bacteria like H. pylori, which can lead to gastritis, ulcers, or even stomach cancer. Symptoms of a stomach infection include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Treatment involves antibiotics and medications to reduce stomach acid and heal the stomach lining.

Similar to a GI doctor, a "gastro dr" refers to a specialist in gastroenterology. Patients typically see these specialists for issues related to digestive health, such as ulcers, acid reflux, or liver disease. They perform diagnostic procedures like endoscopies or colonoscopies to identify and treat conditions. For bariatric surgery patients, gastroenterologists can help manage complications that arise from surgeries like the Roux-en-Y or gastric band.

After significant weight loss from gastric sleeve surgery, patients often experience excess skin, particularly around the abdomen, arms, and thighs. This can be addressed through body contouring surgeries like a tummy tuck, arm lift, or thigh lift. Before and after photos often show dramatic transformations with smoother, firmer skin post-surgery.

Gastric band removal is a surgical procedure performed when a gastric band causes complications, fails to aid weight loss, or the patient wishes to opt for a different type of bariatric surgery. The band is removed, and in some cases, patients may choose to undergo a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass as a replacement.