Author: jefftormey

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.

Rediscovering the Joy of Swimming Post-Bariatric Surgery

Written by jefftormey on January 17, 2024. Posted in Bariatric Surgery. No Comments on Rediscovering the Joy of Swimming Post-Bariatric Surgery

Embarking on a journey toward a healthier self often involves bariatric surgery. A common query that surfaces is how long after bariatric surgery you can swim. This article aims to shed light on this topic, offering insights into the safe resumption of swimming activities post-surgery. Understanding the right time to re-engage with water activities is crucial for your recovery and well-being. Swimming, a therapeutic and rejuvenating exercise, can significantly enhance your post-surgery healing process. However, it’s essential to approach this activity with caution and under medical guidance to ensure your safety and maximize the benefits.

The Road to Recovery: Understanding the Timeline

After undergoing procedures like gastric sleeve or bypass, patients often wonder, can I swim after gastric sleeve? The answer lies in the healing process. It’s crucial to allow your body ample time to recover. Typically, doctors advise waiting two to four weeks before taking a dip. This period ensures that the risk of infection is minimized and the body is adequately healed.

Swimming After Gastric Sleeve: A Safe Bet?

Swimming post-surgery isn’t just safe—it’s beneficial. As a low-impact exercise, swimming after gastric sleeve surgery aids in weight loss, improves muscle tone, and enhances overall flexibility and strength. However, it’s vital to start slow and follow medical advice.

Making a Splash: How Soon Can You Swim After Bariatric Surgery?

The answer to this question is straightforward. Wait for your doctor’s green light, typically a few weeks post-surgery. This waiting period is essential for your safety and well-being.

Embracing Swimming After Bariatric Surgery

For many, swimming is more than exercise—it’s a joy. Swimming after bariatric surgery is a way to celebrate your new lifestyle. It’s not just about losing weight. It’s about gaining a new perspective on life.

Your New Beginning

You’ve gained insights into how long after bariatric surgery you can swim. Now, it’s time to embark on a transformative journey. The experts at Lenox Hill Bariatric Surgery Program, are ready to guide you if you have any questions regarding bariatric surgery in NY. Whether you’re contemplating the life-changing decision of bariatric surgery or seeking tailored advice on post-surgery activities like swimming, their expertise shines as a guiding light. Embrace a new chapter in your life with confidence and joy. Reach out to us today and take a bold step toward a future brimming with health and vitality.

Gastric Bypass vs Duodenal Switch: Choosing the Correct Weight Loss Surgery Procedure

Written by jefftormey on January 10, 2024. Posted in Weight Loss Blog. No Comments on Gastric Bypass vs Duodenal Switch: Choosing the Correct Weight Loss Surgery Procedure

With more of the U.S. population showing signs of weight increase, obesity is a growing concern. There are several complications related to the condition—most being fatal. In cases where exercise and diet are not enough to help, experts suggest bariatric weight loss surgeries. Here is what you need to know to choose between the two standard weight loss procedures: duodenal switch surgery vs. gastric bypass.

The Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass has been around since the 50s and has proven to be one of the most effective ways to battle obesity. It is also called the Roux-en-Y and has a simple objective: To make the patient’s stomach smaller. The surgeon alters the intestines’ anatomy, changing the path of the food to reduce the digestive process by two-thirds. This way, the stomach gets smaller, making you feel full faster and lowering the calorie count.

The Duodenal Switch

This procedure is known scientifically as the BPD-DS (biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch). The difference between gastric bypass and duodenal switch is that this procedure starts with the gastric sleeve, followed by adjusting the intestines. During the gastric sleeve surgery, the stomach is permanently reduced to about 15%, making it more tube-like.

After resizing the stomach, the intestines are rearranged and rerouted, avoiding contact with the digestive juices. The goal is to reduce how many calories are absorbed in the body. Ultimately, the duodenal switch incorporates two procedures in one—malabsorptive and restrictive—leading to massive weight loss.

Duodenal Switch Vs Gastric Bypass: Which To Choose

Several factors come into play when deciding which technique to opt for. You need to choose an effective yet safe procedure. While the professionals will help you choose the perfect procedure, you should also know the pros and cons of each. Gastric bypass surgery is the most common, ideal for patients with a BMI of 40-50, and takes only 2 hours.

In contrast, the duodenal switch surgery works for patients whose BMI is over 50, is more invasive, and takes about 4 hours. When helping decide, doctors present the risks and advantages involved in both procedures. They account for your health, your expected weight loss level, and the probability of complications.

Seek the Help of a Professional

Surgery is effective in matters of massive weight loss. It helps reduce mobility issues, back and joint pains, sleep apnea, and several other obesity-related complications. Consider gastric bypass surgery in NYC if considering a go-to procedure with numerous benefits. Our professionals at Lenox Hill Hospital will guide you from the consultation to recovery and beyond. Contact us today to get started on your journey.

Weight Gain After Bariatric Surgery: The Top 5 Reasons

Written by jefftormey on December 29, 2023. Posted in Bariatric Surgery. No Comments on Weight Gain After Bariatric Surgery: The Top 5 Reasons

Bariatric surgery helps you attain your weight loss goals, but the results vary among individuals, with some regaining weight 2 – 10 years later. These fluctuations are common, hence the need to change lifestyle habits, including exercise and diet. A weight fluctuation of five to ten pounds is normal, but more than this should be an alarm. Read on for the five top reasons you might gain weight after gastric sleeve.

1. Old Eating Habits

One of the reasons you will experience weight gain after gastric sleeve surgery is falling back into your old eating habits. Snacking between meals will increase your weight as most snacks are rich in sugars and carbohydrates. Also, if you sit down for unplanned meals, you will likely overeat or consume foods outside your nutrition plan. Therefore, as a bariatric patient, you should eat five small meals daily, and these meals require proper planning.

2. Change in Your Exercise Routine

Another reason you may be gaining weight after a gastric sleeve is a change in your physical activity. Weight loss typically occurs when your body, through increased metabolism, burns more calories than you are consuming. Therefore, to maintain a healthy weight post-surgery, prioritize enjoyable exercise—whether swimming, walking, or being a part of a sports team—and remain consistent.

3. Increased Stress Levels

Stress results in putting on weight after gastric sleeve due to increased production of the hormone cortisol, which then encourages your body to have high blood glucose levels. An increased glucose level can lower your metabolism and impair your thyroid function, resulting in post-gastric bypass weight gain.

4. Lack of Support

Support from family and friends can help you through the adjustment period of a significant lifestyle change. Therefore, talk to your family before your surgery and emphasize the importance of their support to promote the long-term success of your surgery.

5. Anatomical Changes of the Surgical Site

Anatomical changes are the least common reason for putting on weight after a gastric bypass. If, over time, you train your stomach pouch to accommodate a higher food volume, you will experience weight gain after gastric surgery, as you will not have the initial feeling of fullness that you once had. Gastro-gastric fistula due to a staple line leak may also render the gastric bypass weight loss effects ineffective.

Weight Gain After Bariatric Surgery?

Patients can experience weight gain after bariatric surgery due to the above reasons. If your weight gain exceeds the 5 to 10 pounds mark, visit Lenox Hill Hospital for an appointment to rule out anatomical concerns. And if you’re seeking bariatric surgery in NYC, our expert surgeons are ready to assist.

Pasta After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Written by jefftormey on December 22, 2023. Posted in Gastric Sleeve Surgery. No Comments on Pasta After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Pasta is a favorite food for most people around the world. However, if you recently had gastric sleeve surgery, this food preference may have to change, given its high-calorie level that is unsuitable for your health. Does this mean you must avoid the meal altogether? Read on to understand when you can eat pasta after gastric sleeve.

When Can I Have Pasta After Gastric Sleeve?

Immediately after gastric sleeve surgery, you will be under a 4-phase diet, and you should follow each to ensure the success of your surgery and limit post-operative complications.

In the first and second phases, limit your diet to liquids and pureed foods; hence, no pasta. You will start introducing soft foods like eggs, Greek yogurt, and some fruits and non-starchy vegetables in phase three, but still, avoid pasta as your body is still adjusting to the dietary and lifestyle changes.

So, when can you eat pasta after gastric sleeve? The twelfth week marks the start of the last phase toward attaining your weight loss goal and will differ in length among individuals. You will start adding most of the foods into your diet, including all fruits and lean meat, and then… Pasta!

How Do You Add Pasta To Your Diet?

While your system is healed by the time you are introducing pasta after gastric sleeve, this process should be gradual to give your body ample time to adjust. Start with a small portion and check your body’s reaction, then gradually increase the amount to as much as your stomach can hold without surpassing the recommendations ideal for meeting your weight loss goals.

A Healthy Way To Introduce Pasta After Bariatric Surgery

Despite its high carb content, pasta can be a healthy food choice, depending on how you add it to your diet. To minimize postsurgical complications, keep your blood sugars stable, and get all the nutrients that your body needs, go for whole grain pasta rather than refined pasta and pair your meal with lean proteins and vegetables. Lastly, watch your portions and avoid overeating lest you mess with your weight loss goals.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery for Weight Loss

When eating pasta after gastric sleeve, introduce the food in the final phase and be careful with how you do it. For more information about medically approved ways to reduce weight, contact Lenox Hill Hospital for gastric sleeve surgery in NYC today.