The "fat jab," also known as Saxenda or liraglutide, is an injectable weight-loss drug that has been approved for use on the NHS in the UK for individuals struggling with obesity. It is intended for use in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. The medication helps control appetite, leading to weight loss. It is typically prescribed to those with a BMI over 30 or individuals with weight-related health problems.

A sleeve diet plan involves gradual dietary progression after surgery, focusing on protein-rich foods, minimal carbohydrates, and small portion sizes. Long-term, patients must continue eating nutrient-dense, low-calorie meals to maintain weight loss. Key components include lean meats, vegetables, whole grains, and avoiding sugary and fatty foods.

Before undergoing bariatric surgery like RNY, patients are required to follow a pre-op diet to reduce liver size and fat around the stomach. This makes the surgery safer and easier for the surgeon to perform. The pre-op diet typically consists of high-protein, low-carbohydrate shakes, and liquids for 1-2 weeks before surgery. It’s an important step in preparing the body for surgery and ensuring optimal recovery post-op.

Weight loss pills include prescription medications like Orlistat (which blocks fat absorption) and over-the-counter supplements marketed to boost metabolism or suppress appetite. While some medications are effective when used correctly, they must be combined with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise for long-term success.

A doctor for gastric issues is typically a gastroenterologist, a specialist in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the digestive system. Gastroenterologists treat conditions such as acid reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

A gastric specialist is a doctor who focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the stomach and digestive system. This includes conditions like ulcers, gastritis, acid reflux, and cancers of the stomach. These specialists may perform endoscopies and recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery.

A gastro appointment is a consultation with a gastroenterologist. During this visit, the doctor assesses symptoms like stomach pain, acid reflux, or changes in bowel habits. The appointment might involve a physical exam, blood tests, or diagnostic procedures like an endoscopy or colonoscopy to identify the issue.

A mini gastric sleeve refers to a less invasive version of the standard sleeve gastrectomy. It’s a simpler procedure that results in a smaller stomach size and helps with long-term weight loss. While not as widely performed, it is an option for those seeking weight-loss surgery with fewer complications.

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.

Similar to the gastric balloon, the stomach balloon is used for weight loss by physically limiting the stomach's capacity. It is available in the UK both privately and through the NHS in some cases. The balloon is typically left in place for six months, after which it is removed. During this time, patients follow a strict diet to maximize weight loss.

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.

Abdominal surgery involves any operation performed in the abdominal region, such as appendectomies, hernia repairs, or cancer removals. Minimally invasive techniques, like laparoscopy, have become common, reducing recovery time and post-operative complications.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a non-surgical, minimally invasive weight-loss procedure where the stomach is reduced in size using sutures placed through an endoscope. Unlike surgical sleeve gastrectomy, ESG does not involve any incisions and has a quicker recovery time. It is recommended for individuals who want to avoid surgery but need help with significant weight loss.

Weight loss tablets are medications designed to help individuals lose weight by suppressing appetite or blocking fat absorption. Common examples include Orlistat, which reduces fat absorption, and phentermine, which is an appetite suppressant. These medications are typically prescribed to individuals with a BMI over 30 or those with obesity-related conditions.

The gastric balloon pill is a new, non-invasive weight-loss method where a deflated balloon is swallowed in pill form and then inflated in the stomach. Known as the Allurion Balloon, this method reduces the amount of food the stomach can hold, promoting weight loss without surgery.

A bowel doctor, another term for a gastroenterologist, focuses on the intestines and related organs. Patients may seek care from a bowel doctor for conditions like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, or bowel cancer. They also manage complications that arise in the bowel following surgeries like the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or gastric sleeve.

While there is no specific gastric band pill, weight-loss medications such as Orlistat or appetite suppressants may be prescribed alongside a gastric band procedure to help enhance weight loss. These pills should only be taken under medical supervision as part of a comprehensive weight management plan.

Bikini sleeve is a colloquial term referring to a gastric sleeve surgery performed through small, hidden incisions around the bikini line to minimize visible scarring. This technique is designed for patients who are concerned about the cosmetic appearance of their body post-surgery while achieving the same weight loss benefits as traditional Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG).

A diet clinic offers personalized services to help people manage their weight, often through nutritional counseling, meal planning, and fitness guidance. These clinics may also provide medical interventions such as appetite suppressants, weight-loss injections, or bariatric surgery evaluations. They cater to individuals looking for both medical and non-surgical weight-loss solutions.

In the UK, diet pills can be prescribed by doctors or purchased over-the-counter. Common options include Orlistat (available on the NHS), which reduces fat absorption, and appetite suppressants like Phentermine. The use of diet pills should always be monitored by healthcare professionals to avoid potential side effects or misuse.

A bowel specialist, or gastroenterologist, diagnoses and treats diseases of the digestive tract, including the stomach, intestines, and colon. Common conditions treated include IBS, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and colon cancer.

The gastric band scar is typically minimal, as the procedure is usually done laparoscopically through small incisions. The scarring may vary based on the patient’s healing process, but these small scars usually fade over time. Proper wound care can minimize scarring and promote healing.

Roux-en-Y bypass is another term for the RNY procedure. This surgery helps patients lose weight by creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the digestive tract. The result is a reduced ability to absorb calories and nutrients. Patients who undergo RNY experience rapid weight loss, but it also requires them to make permanent changes to their diet and lifestyle to avoid complications like dumping syndrome, where food moves too quickly from the... +More