{"data":{"ghostTag":{"slug":"gastric-sleeve","name":"Gastric Sleeve","visibility":"public","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","meta_title":null,"meta_description":null},"allGhostPost":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5e5034846b717c00381fb570","title":"Gastric Sleeve Surgery Recovery Time","slug":"gastric-sleeve-surgery-recovery-time","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/ali-yahya-YGkEFQqgI94-unsplash-2.jpg","excerpt":"If you are considering having gastric sleeve surgery, you have thought of several questions you'd like to ask. There is no such thing as \"too much research\" when it comes to one's health. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons before having any surgical procedure.","custom_excerpt":"If you are considering having gastric sleeve surgery, you have thought of several questions you'd like to ask. There is no such thing as \"too much research\" when it comes to one's health. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons before having any surgical procedure.","created_at_pretty":"21 February, 2020","published_at_pretty":"22 March, 2020","updated_at_pretty":"12 April, 2020","created_at":"2020-02-21T14:50:28.000-05:00","published_at":"2020-03-22T07:00:00.000-04:00","updated_at":"2020-04-12T13:37:41.000-04:00","meta_title":"Gastric Sleeve Surgery Recovery Time","meta_description":"If you are considering having gastric sleeve surgery, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons before having any surgical procedure.","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},{"name":"Gintas Antanavicius, MD, FACS, FASMBS","slug":"gintas","bio":"Dr. G is a co-founder of BariBuilder. A US-based expert surgeon with over 10 years of bariatric experience, he regularly publishes research in medical journals like SOARD, Obesity Surgery, etc.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2018/11/drgheadshot.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Recovery Time","slug":"recovery-time","description":"Articles about recovery time after weight loss surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/aron-visuals-BXOXnQ26B7o-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"If you are considering having gastric sleeve surgery, you have probably thought\nof several questions you'd like to ask. There is no such thing as \"too much\nresearch\" when it comes to one's health. It's essential to weigh the pros and\ncons before having any surgical procedure. \n\nOne of the first questions of concern for most people who are considering sleeve\ngastrectomy is \"What is the gastric sleeve surgery recovery time?\"\n\nThe simple answer is that recovery time for any surgery varies from one person\nto the next. An individual's overall pre-surgery health and activity level have\na direct effect on how well he/she will recover from surgery.\n\nThe more complicated answer is that recovery from gastric sleeve surgery is a\nlife-long journey. The journey begins before a patient checks in to the hospital\nfor the procedure.\n\nRecovery from gastric sleeve surgery varies from person to person.‌‌Plan For\nGastric Sleeve Surgery Recovery Before The Actual Surgery\nAny changes or modifications to diet or behavior that can be done before surgery\nwill help make the post-surgical transition easier. For instance, following\ngastric sleeve surgery, the amount of food that you can eat will be drastically\nreduced. Diets should include high protein and low fat.  Also, drinking plenty\nof fluids each day will help promote weight loss.\n\nA bariatric surgeon and a nutritionist can help you learn about necessary\ndietary changes that will help promote success following gastric sleeve surgery.\nTaking steps to initiate those changes before your procedure can improve how you\nfeel after surgery and may make the process feel less daunting.\n\nThings to Consider About Gastric Sleeve Surgery Recovery Time\nThe recovery time for patients who have gastric sleeve procedures can be\naffected by several factors. Let's take a closer look at some things that may\naffect your recovery time.\n\nPre-Surgery Considerations:\n * What comorbidities do you have that need to be addressed?\n   A comorbidity [https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/comorbidity] \n   is a disease that is the result of, or strongly related to, a primary\n   disease. In layman's terms, this means any disease or disorder that occurs at\n   the same time as another disease/disorder.\n   \n   As it applies to weight loss surgery, the primary disease is morbid obesity,\n   and it has many possible comorbidities. For example, a person who is obese\n   may also be diagnosed with hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, or\n   heart disease. These conditions are comorbidities to obesity.\n   \n   While many people may not think of pre-existing conditions/comorbidities as\n   an issue that could affect recovery time, it is something to be considered.\n   The drastic change in the amount of food a person can eat or changes in\n   activity levels can have a direct impact on blood pressure and blood sugar\n   levels. This is one reason that close follow-up with a bariatric surgeon\n   following gastric sleeve surgery is important.\n\nThere are several things to consider before committing to gastric sleeve\nsurgery.\nDuring and Immediately Following Surgery:\n * Anesthesia\n   Bariatric surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia\n   [https://asmbs.org/resources/anesthesia]. When the procedure is complete, the\n   anesthesia is reversed, and the patient will become aware of his/her\n   environment.\n   \n   Individuals who suffer from morbid obesity often have a delay in the recovery\n   from anesthesia. This is because fats store a large amount of anesthetic\n   medication that is administered for surgery. Therefore, the effects of the\n   medication(s) may continue to act after the procedure is complete.\n   \n   Complications related to anesthesia, however, are rare. For most patients,\n   recovery from anesthesia following gastric sleeve surgery should be\n   immediate.\n   \n\nIn most cases, recovery from pain after sleeve gastrectomy is usually not\ncomplicated. * Management of Pain\n   Once recovery from anesthesia has occurred, there is the issue of pain.  The\n   two most common sources of pain following gastric sleeve surgery are incision\n   site pain and gas pain.\n   \n   Any time there is trauma to a tissue, such as the trauma caused by surgical\n   incisions, pain is to be expected. The incision that is the source of the\n   most pain is usually the largest, which is where the part of the stomach that\n   is detached is removed from the body.\n   \n   Immediately following surgery, pain medications will be administered via IV.\n   After the doctor gives the order, the medication is usually given orally.\n\nTwo common types of gas pain may occur after sleeve gastrectomy. While they are\ndifferent, they both can be frustrating.\n\n * Intestinal gas pains - Caused by a buildup of gas inside the intestines.\n * Intraperitoneal gas pains - Caused by gas trapped outside the intestines, but\n   inside the abdominal cavity.\n\nTo relieve the gas pain associated with gastric bypass surgery it's recommended\nthat you walk. Walking early and often after surgery can help reduce the painful\ngassy feelings that can be felt. Walking encourages the rhythmic movement of the\nintestines to begin again, which helps relieve gas and prevent constipation.\n\nThe First Few Weeks of Recovery After Sleeve Gastrectomy\nWhile some discomfort is expected after surgery, it is usually minimal, and most\npatients are discharged from the hospital within 24-48 hours following gastric\nsleeve surgery.\n\nAfter sleeve gastrectomy, one issue that many patients experience is known as \"\ndumping syndrome [https://blog.baribuilder.com/blog/dumping-syndrome-gastric-sleeve/].\" This\ncondition occurs when food empties too quickly into the small intestine.  It can\ncause nausea, vomiting, faintness, feelings of being jittery, and diarrhea. To\nprevent dumping syndrome, patients should be mindful of being compliant with the\nbariatric diet that their doctor prescribes.\n\nAs the body recovers from sleeve surgery, the activity level can be expected to\nbe a bit slower than before surgery. Although this can be attributed to mild\ndiscomfort, it is also related to adjustments that the body is making as a new\ndiet is being practiced. Decreased food intake can also cause individuals to\nfeel more sluggish, especially at first.\n\nWhile exercise is essential to help achieve and maintain a healthy weight,\nexercise must be implemented with your physician's supervision/recommendation\nduring the gastric sleeve recovery period.\n\nTypically, recovery time is between two and six weeks.After Gastric Sleeve\nSurgery, How Much Time Do I Need Off Work?\nAs with all other recovery issues, deciding when it's time to return to work is\nsubjective, varying from person to person. While some people return to work in\nas little as one week, others take up to six weeks off of work to allow for full\nrecovery after gastric sleeve surgery. Typically, recovery time is between two\nand six weeks, and overall, most people return to work within two weeks.\n\nIf you have a sedentary job, such as working as a secretary or other light work,\nyour expected time to return to work is typically shorter than those who work in\njobs that require moderate to heavy labor. Remember, no two people are alike.\nTherefore, you shouldn't try to gauge what is appropriate for yourself based on\nwhat others say has worked for them.\n\nGastric Sleeve Surgery Recovery Is a Lifelong Process\nNo matter how much research a person does before having surgery, it is of utmost\nimportance to continue learning. The recovery period after gastric sleeve\nsurgery is a lifelong process.\n\nEvery day requires having a mindset to make healthier choices. Those choices\nmean eating differently, exercising, and staying engaged with your doctor and\nhealthcare team.\n\nOne thing that many people who consider bariatric surgery (of any kind) have in\ncommon is their emotional \"connection\" to food. To successfully recover from the\nprocedure, learning to identify what triggers the emotional need for food, and\nhow to direct those triggers toward healthier choices takes a lifetime of\ncommitment.\n\nThe best advice I believe anyone can be given about recovery is to let the\nprocess happen.  Individuals are not born and do not become morbidly obese\novernight. It takes time. In much the same way, recovery from years of unhealthy\nchoices takes time.\n\nIf you have had sleeve gastrectomy surgery, or are considering it, remember that\nmistakes don't make you a failure. Learn from those mistakes and apply better\nprinciples moving forward.\n\nFollow-Up With Your Doctor\nTo help make recovery time less complicated, follow the advice and instructions\nprovided by your doctor. Adhere to diet, exercise, and medication regimen, as\nprescribed following the sleeve gastrectomy procedure. If you are unsure about\nhow your body is recovering from surgery, make an appointment to talk with your\ndoctor. No question is not important.\n\nSchedule and keep routine follow-ups with your doctor following gastric sleeve\nsurgery.Conclusion\nIn most cases, recovery from sleeve gastrectomy surgery is uncomplicated.\nPlanning and preparing for recovery before the procedure is done will help\nminimize fears and anxiety following the surgery. While healing and recovery\ntime varies on an individual basis, the average time is from two to six weeks.\nDeveloping good post-operative eating and exercise habits, as well as follow-up\ncare with your physician, can help make your recovery and long-term success more\neasily attainable.","html":"<p>If you are considering having gastric sleeve surgery, you have probably thought of several questions you'd like to ask. There is no such thing as \"too much research\" when it comes to one's health. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons before having any surgical procedure. </p><p>One of the first questions of concern for most people who are considering sleeve gastrectomy is <em>\"What is the gastric sleeve surgery recovery time?\"</em></p><p>The simple answer is that recovery time for any surgery varies from one person to the next. An individual's overall pre-surgery health and activity level have a direct effect on how well he/she will recover from surgery.</p><p>The more complicated answer is that recovery from gastric sleeve surgery is a life-long journey. The journey begins before a patient checks in to the hospital for the procedure.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/allgo-an-app-for-plus-size-people-LpjpApXzB3M-unsplash-1.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Man smiling and looking at the camera.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Recovery from gastric sleeve surgery varies from person to person.</em><span class=\"-mobiledoc-kit__atom\">‌‌</span></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"plan-for-gastric-sleeve-surgery-recovery-before-the-actual-surgery\">Plan For Gastric Sleeve Surgery Recovery Before The Actual Surgery</h1><p>Any changes or modifications to diet or behavior that can be done before surgery will help make the post-surgical transition easier. For instance, following gastric sleeve surgery, the amount of food that you can eat will be drastically reduced. Diets should include high protein and low fat.  Also, drinking plenty of fluids each day will help promote weight loss.</p><p>A bariatric surgeon and a nutritionist can help you learn about necessary dietary changes that will help promote success following gastric sleeve surgery. Taking steps to initiate those changes before your procedure can improve how you feel after surgery and may make the process feel less daunting.</p><h1 id=\"things-to-consider-about-gastric-sleeve-surgery-recovery-time\">Things to Consider About Gastric Sleeve Surgery Recovery Time</h1><p>The recovery time for patients who have gastric sleeve procedures can be affected by several factors. Let's take a closer look at some things that may affect your recovery time.</p><h3 id=\"pre-surgery-considerations-\">Pre-Surgery Considerations:</h3><ul><li><strong><em>What comorbidities do you have that need to be addressed?</em></strong>  <br>A <a href=\"https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/comorbidity\">comorbidity</a> is a disease that is the result of, or strongly related to, a primary disease. In layman's terms, this means any disease or disorder that occurs at the same time as another disease/disorder.<br><br>As it applies to weight loss surgery, the primary disease is morbid obesity, and it has many possible comorbidities. For example, a person who is obese may also be diagnosed with hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, or heart disease. These conditions are comorbidities to obesity.<br><br>While many people may not think of pre-existing conditions/comorbidities as an issue that could affect recovery time, it is something to be considered. The drastic change in the amount of food a person can eat or changes in activity levels can have a direct impact on blood pressure and blood sugar levels. This is one reason that close follow-up with a bariatric surgeon following gastric sleeve surgery is important.</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/Mental-Health-Hope-1.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Woman with her hands on her head smiling.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>There are several things to consider before committing to gastric sleeve surgery.</em></figcaption></figure><h3 id=\"during-and-immediately-following-surgery-\"><br>During and Immediately Following Surgery:</h3><ul><li><strong><em>Anesthesia</em></strong><br>Bariatric surgery is usually performed under general <a href=\"https://asmbs.org/resources/anesthesia\">anesthesia</a>. When the procedure is complete, the anesthesia is reversed, and the patient will become aware of his/her environment.<br><br>Individuals who suffer from morbid obesity often have a delay in the recovery from anesthesia. This is because fats store a large amount of anesthetic medication that is administered for surgery. Therefore, the effects of the medication(s) may continue to act after the procedure is complete.<br><br>Complications related to anesthesia, however, are rare. For most patients, recovery from anesthesia following gastric sleeve surgery should be immediate.<br></li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/ali-yahya-YGkEFQqgI94-unsplash-1.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Man laying in the hospital bed talking to the doctor.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>In most cases, recovery from pain after sleeve gastrectomy is usually not complicated.</em></figcaption></figure><ul><li><strong><em>Management of Pain</em></strong><br>Once recovery from anesthesia has occurred, there is the issue of pain.  The two <em>most common</em> sources of pain following gastric sleeve surgery are incision site pain and gas pain.<br><br>Any time there is trauma to a tissue, such as the trauma caused by surgical incisions, pain is to be expected. The incision that is the source of the most pain is usually the largest, which is where the part of the stomach that is detached is removed from the body.<br><br>Immediately following surgery, pain medications will be administered via IV. After the doctor gives the order, the medication is usually given orally.</li></ul><p>Two common types of gas pain may occur after sleeve gastrectomy. While they are different, they both can be frustrating.</p><ul><li><strong>Intestinal gas pains </strong>- Caused by a buildup of gas inside the intestines.</li><li><strong>Intraperitoneal gas pains</strong> - Caused by gas trapped outside the intestines, but inside the abdominal cavity.</li></ul><p>To relieve the gas pain associated with gastric bypass surgery it's recommended that you walk. Walking early and often after surgery can help reduce the painful gassy feelings that can be felt. Walking encourages the rhythmic movement of the intestines to begin again, which helps relieve gas and prevent constipation.</p><h1 id=\"the-first-few-weeks-of-recovery-after-sleeve-gastrectomy\">The First Few Weeks of Recovery After Sleeve Gastrectomy</h1><p>While some discomfort is expected after surgery, it is usually minimal, and most patients are discharged from the hospital within 24-48 hours following gastric sleeve surgery.</p><p>After sleeve gastrectomy, one issue that many patients experience is known as \"<a href=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/blog/dumping-syndrome-gastric-sleeve/\">dumping syndrome</a>.\" This condition occurs when food empties too quickly into the small intestine.  It can cause nausea, vomiting, faintness, feelings of being jittery, and diarrhea. To prevent dumping syndrome, patients should be mindful of being compliant with the bariatric diet that their doctor prescribes.</p><p>As the body recovers from sleeve surgery, the activity level can be expected to be a bit slower than before surgery. Although this can be attributed to mild discomfort, it is also related to adjustments that the body is making as a new diet is being practiced. Decreased food intake can also cause individuals to feel more sluggish, especially at first.</p><p>While exercise is essential to help achieve and maintain a healthy weight, exercise must be implemented with your physician's supervision/recommendation during the gastric sleeve recovery period.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/hospital-bed.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Woman laying in the hospital bed.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Typically, recovery time is between two and six weeks.</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"after-gastric-sleeve-surgery-how-much-time-do-i-need-off-work\">After Gastric Sleeve Surgery, How Much Time Do I Need Off Work?</h1><p>As with all other recovery issues, deciding when it's time to return to work is subjective, varying from person to person. While some people return to work in as little as one week, others take up to six weeks off of work to allow for full recovery after gastric sleeve surgery. Typically, recovery time is between two and six weeks, and overall, most people return to work within two weeks.</p><p>If you have a sedentary job, such as working as a secretary or other light work, your expected time to return to work is typically shorter than those who work in jobs that require moderate to heavy labor. Remember, no two people are alike. Therefore, you shouldn't try to gauge what is appropriate for yourself based on what others say has worked for them.</p><h1 id=\"gastric-sleeve-surgery-recovery-is-a-lifelong-process\">Gastric Sleeve Surgery Recovery Is a Lifelong Process</h1><p>No matter how much research a person does before having surgery, it is of utmost importance to continue learning. The recovery period after gastric sleeve surgery is a lifelong process.</p><p>Every day requires having a mindset to make healthier choices. Those choices mean eating differently, exercising, and staying engaged with your doctor and healthcare team.</p><p>One thing that many people who consider bariatric surgery (of any kind) have in common is their emotional \"connection\" to food. To successfully recover from the procedure, learning to identify what triggers the emotional need for food, and how to direct those triggers toward healthier choices takes a lifetime of commitment.</p><p>The best advice I believe anyone can be given about recovery is to let the process happen.  Individuals are not born and do not become morbidly obese overnight. It takes time. In much the same way, recovery from years of unhealthy choices takes time.</p><p>If you have had sleeve gastrectomy surgery, or are considering it, remember that mistakes don't make you a failure. Learn from those mistakes and apply better principles moving forward.</p><h1 id=\"follow-up-with-your-doctor\">Follow-Up With Your Doctor</h1><p>To help make recovery time less complicated, follow the advice and instructions provided by your doctor. Adhere to diet, exercise, and medication regimen, as prescribed following the sleeve gastrectomy procedure. If you are unsure about how your body is recovering from surgery, make an appointment to talk with your doctor. No question is not important.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/computer-3343887_960_720.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Doctor on a computer showing things to a patient.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Schedule and keep routine follow-ups with your doctor following gastric sleeve surgery.</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"conclusion\">Conclusion</h1><p>In most cases, recovery from sleeve gastrectomy surgery is uncomplicated. Planning and preparing for recovery before the procedure is done will help minimize fears and anxiety following the surgery. While healing and recovery time varies on an individual basis, the average time is from two to six weeks. Developing good post-operative eating and exercise habits, as well as follow-up care with your physician, can help make your recovery and long-term success more easily attainable.</p>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/gastric-sleeve-surgery-recovery-time/","uuid":"ee3d025e-72ab-4b8e-8912-3b008f0f35cd","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5e5034846b717c00381fb570"}},{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5e4ac2a41ba5600038f15791","title":"Gastric Sleeve Horror Stories","slug":"gastric-sleeve-horror-stories","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/olga-guryanova-nQbv2lRTnUo-unsplash.jpg","excerpt":"If you're considering having gastric sleeve surgery, you need to know the risks associated with this life changing surgery. While some potential risks are acute, some may be chronic and life threatening. ","custom_excerpt":"If you're considering having gastric sleeve surgery, you need to know the risks associated with this life changing surgery. While some potential risks are acute, some may be chronic and life threatening. ","created_at_pretty":"17 February, 2020","published_at_pretty":"15 March, 2020","updated_at_pretty":"12 April, 2020","created_at":"2020-02-17T11:43:16.000-05:00","published_at":"2020-03-15T07:00:00.000-04:00","updated_at":"2020-04-12T13:40:50.000-04:00","meta_title":"Gastric Sleeve Surgery Horror Stories","meta_description":"If you're considering having gastric sleeve surgery, you need to know the risks. Some risks are acute, some may be chronic and life threatening. ","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},{"name":"Gintas Antanavicius, MD, FACS, FASMBS","slug":"gintas","bio":"Dr. G is a co-founder of BariBuilder. A US-based expert surgeon with over 10 years of bariatric experience, he regularly publishes research in medical journals like SOARD, Obesity Surgery, etc.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2018/11/drgheadshot.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Horror Stories","slug":"horror-stories","description":"Articles about weight loss surgery horror stories","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/shocked-3079071_1920.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"Are you considering having gastric sleeve surgery? Have you heard horror stories\nof people who had the surgery and later regretted the decision?\n\nAs with any surgical procedure, there are benefits and risks. Health benefits of\nbariatric surgery far outweigh risks of surgery; however, for a small number of\npatients, complications may happen.\n\nSome potential risks, or complications, are acute, meaning they occur quickly\nand are usually easily resolved.\n\nOthers are chronic or long-term, while the majority of people who have gastric\nsleeve surgery experience little to no complications. There is a small\npopulation who have experienced significant complications or gone through their\nown gastric sleeve horror stories.\n\nSleeve Gastrectomy, also known as Gastric Sleeve Surgery, is a bariatric\nprocedure that involves surgically removing approximately ⅔ of the stomach.What\nIs Gastric Sleeve Surgery?\n\nGastric sleeve surgery involves surgically removing approximately ⅔ of the\nstomach and creating a pouch or sleeve-shaped stomach with the portion that\nremains. In recent years, it has been proven to be a safe and effective\nprocedure to help promote weight loss.\n\nBecause of smaller stomach size, the amount of food that an individual can eat\nis reduced. This leads to feeling full more quickly, reduced caloric intake, and\nweight loss.\n\nGastric Sleeve Surgery Horror Stories and Their Causes\nSome of the reasons for complications that lead to gastric sleeve horror stories\ninclude:\n\nAddiction Transfer \nAddiction transfer refers to the phenomenon that happens when an individual is\nno longer able to use food as a way to \"self-medicate\" for emotional issues.\n\nFor bariatric patients, a smaller stomach size means an inability to binge-eat.\nTherefore, other types of addictions become appealing and often seem to take\ncontrol of one's actions and thoughts. Alcohol abuse, drug abuse and sexual\naddiction are some of the most common addiction transfers that occur after\nbariatric surgery. The person's reduced stomach size does not limit these\naddictions.\n\nAfter gastric sleeve surgery, patients can turn to other life threatening\nchoices such as drugs to help fill the void.Shane's Addiction Transfer Gastric\nSleeve Horror Story\n\"I used to be the guy who ate all the time. I ate so much that I ballooned up to\nover 400 lbs.\n\nI was on my way to a heart attack fast when my doctor told me I needed to decide\nif I wanted to live to see my fortieth birthday. After I left his office, I was\nso mad and embarrassed. I remember going home and thinking I had to change.\n\nAfter I had the sleeve surgery, my dad died. I wanted to feel numb from the\npain, and since food was no longer an option for me, I went against everything I\never believed. First, it was pills. When they didn't work, I kept trying new\nthings. I ended up a bonafide meth addict. After months of being strung out, I\nfinally got in rehab and started counseling so I could learn to cope in a\nhealthy way and how to become more healthy.\n\nI didn't realize I was addicted to food until that addiction was transferred to\nmeth. Both of them could have killed me, but didn't. If I were to give anyone\nadvice about preparing for this surgery it would be to talk to your doctor and\nsee a counselor for any addiction you have (including food) before you have the\nsurgery. Addiction transfer is real, and it is frightening, but it doesn't have\nto kill you.\"\n\nAbdominal adhesions\nOrgans and tissues of the abdomen are naturally slippery, which allows them to\nmove and slide past each other.This is helpful during movements such as bending,\ntwisting, and walking. After surgery, especially after open surgery, scarring\ncan make these tissues \"stick\" to each other, and this causes a pulling\nsensation. The sensation may range from slightly annoying to painful with\nmovement. The development of adhesion is not uncommon after any type of surgery.\nHowever, if the adhesions are severe, it can lead to long term complications and\nthe need for another surgery. Abdominal adhesions are more common for open\noperations than  minimally invasive surgery.\n\nMaryann's Gastric Sleeve Surgery Horror Story\n\"It's been almost 2 years since I had gastric sleeve surgery, and I started\ngetting some pain in my stomach. The doctors couldn't seem to figure out why. I\nhad a colonoscopy and many scans and ultrasounds. They said it was constipation,\nso they started watching my gallbladder. The truth is, they just couldn't figure\nout anything.\n\nI recently moved to another state and began having really severe pain in my\nstomach. I ended up in the ER. Less than 24 hours after I was discharged again \nwith a diagnosis of constipation, I had to call 911. After another almost 48\ngrueling hours in the emergency room, they finally determined that I had scar\ntissue in my abdominal cavity that had wrapped around my colon. It was causing a\nbowel obstruction, which was cutting off the circulation in my colon.\n\nI had to have emergency surgery. While I am happy that I've lost weight, I am\nnow at risk for developing adhesions and having another obstruction. This\nexperience has been one of the most horrible of my life!\"\n\nMalnutrition\nVery uncommon and unusual complication for sleeve, but it may happen if patient\nis not able to eat due to anatomical sleeve problem or anorexia for other\nreasons. To be successful following bariatric surgery, a diet high in proteins\nand essential vitamins and minerals is crucial. This can be difficult due to\nreduced stomach size, a new or worsened sensitivity to certain types of foods,\nor the inability to digest foods as effectively as needed.\n\nFailure to consume enough of the proper nutrients or the inability to absorb\nthem can lead to a complicated, possibly life-threatening condition, known as\nmalnutrition.\nDebbie's Gastric Sleeve Horror Story\n\"When I was 34, I had gastric sleeve surgery. In the beginning, the weight\nseemed to melt off of me. I was ecstatic.\n\nIn my pre-surgery counseling, I was told that I would probably experience some\nhair loss and that I would need to take vitamins for the rest of my life (as\nwell as other changes).\n\nWithout going into my whole medical history, I will tell you, and I wish I'd\nnever heard of gastric sleeve surgery! No, it's not because it can't work or\nthat it is not an effective tool.\n\nIt is. I was not emotionally prepared for the changes I should have made and\nwas, therefore, non-compliant.\n\nSix years after surgery, I have lost over 200 lbs. Great right? No! I lost\nalmost all of my hair. I began to experience malnutrition because I couldn't eat\nand hold anything down. My face is wrinkled. My skin sags. I have had 4\nfractures, had to have my gallbladder out, and had another surgery to remove\nscar tissue.\n\nI look like a skeleton covered in a blanket of skin. I realize the benefits are\nmore significant for some people than the potential complications. I just don't\nfeel like this surgery is for everyone. I also now know that if you aren't\nmentally strong and willing to make some major changes in lifestyle, it can end\nup causing some terrible problems. I am a walking example of someone who should\nnever have had this surgery!\"\n\nInfection or Abscess\nMany surgeons opt to begin patients on antibiotic therapy before and immediately\nfollowing surgery. This is to help reduce the risk of infection following the\nprocedure. If an infection does occur, prompt medical treatment is crucial to\nhelp prevent the risk of further complications. Some of the most common types of\ninfections following surgery include incision site infections and deep organ\ninfections due to leak.\n\nWhen the infection goes untreated or if treatment is delayed, the risk of\nsystemic infection (throughout the body) is increased. This can result in a dire\nmedical emergency and could lead to permanent health issues or death.\n\nKathy's Gastric Sleeve Surgery Horror Story\n\"My whole life was a roller coaster of losing and gaining weight. I knew I had\nto do something so I started researching gastric sleeve surgery. I couldn't\nafford to take a long time off from work, and the sleeve surgery had the\nshortest recovery time, at least it was supposed to!\n\n\nAfter looking into the different surgeons and options locally, I decided it\nwould be more cost-effective for me to opt for surgery in Mexico. I found a\nfacility and surgeon that would do the procedure (all-inclusive) for $4000. I\nwas blown away because every place I found in the States was at least $10,000.\n\nI went to Mexico and had the surgery and initially had no problems. About a week\nafter I returned to the States from Mexico, I started feeling horrible stomach\npain, had fever and chills, and vomiting uncontrollably. I was short of breath\nand was scared I was going to have a heart attack. So, to the ER I went.\n\nThe ER doctor told me I leaked the staple line of my stomach that ended up\ncausing an abscess in my abdomen. I was transferred to a different hospital and\nspent 2 weeks there. During the first week, I was in ICU and taking major\nantibiotics via IV. The second week, I still had vomiting and diarrhea, still\nhad a fever, and was wishing I had never heard of the gastric sleeve surgery!\n\nIt took months after my discharge for me to feel stable again. So far, I have\nlost 124 lbs. The weight loss is excellent, but I still get sick when I eat some\nfoods.\n\nEvery time I have a stomach ache, I worry that I may end up back in ICU. I\nunderstand that all surgeries have some risks, but if you are considering the\ngastric sleeve, make sure you get a doctor who can follow your care carefully.\"\n\nHelen's Gastric Sleeve Horror Story\n\"At my heaviest, I weighed 347 lbs.  I am 5'6\". I was so overweight that I could\nbarely walk without feeling like I was going to suffocate. I finally got the\ncourage to talk to my doctor about having gastric sleeve surgery and got\nscheduled. Did I lose weight? Yeah.\n\nAbout 120 lbs! I'm going to be honest, though. I wish I had been prepared for\nhow much of a struggle it was after surgery. With the significant weight loss\ncame major saggy skin. I felt like a 90 lb weakling carrying another 90 lbs of\nskin. I kept rashes under my breasts and the folds of abdominal skin. My legs\nwere raw. Not because I was fat, but because I couldn't keep the skin from\nrubbing. I had multiple yeast infections in the skin folds because I would\nsweat. I smelled horrible all the time because of the yeast infections! My skin\nbroke down and bled. It was a nightmare!\n\nI had to buy tight bodysuits, so I could tuck all of my loose skin in them so\nthat I could get dressed and not look ridiculous. I wouldn't even let my husband\nsee me undressed. One thing I would suggest to anyone having this surgery is to\nask several questions. This is not a quick fix. You can't lose weight and eat\nand live in any old way. It's a lifelong commitment.\"\n\nMexico Gastric Sleeve Horror Story\nBecause the same procedures can be done for a fraction of the cost in other\ncountries, many people are opting to leave the States for some elective\nprocedures, such as the gastric sleeve. Although there are risks for any\nsurgery, no matter where the procedure takes place, let's take a few minutes to\nexplore some stories about Mexico Gastric Sleeve Surgery.\n\nDanielle's Mexico Gastric Sleeve Horror Story\n\"'Save money and get skinny, they said. \"Weight loss surgery in Mexico is\nawesome.\" I fell for it, hook, line, and sinker. I felt like a cow sent to the\nslaughterhouse because that's what happened to me. They butchered me inside and\noutside!\n\nI woke up from surgery, and I was feeling the most pain I'd ever felt in my\nlife. I could ring blood out of the gown I was wearing. All I could think is I\nwas going to die, and I'd never see my husband or son again. I made the trip\nhome but was sick for the duration of it. I could barely walk off the plane. I\ncouldn't eat and could barely talk.\n\nI thought I was going to die. My mom took me to the emergency room straight from\nthe airport. My spleen had been cut in two places. The surgeon who consulted\nsaid my stomach looked like it had been put through a meat grinder and stuffed\nback into my abdomen.\n\nI was 30 years old and weighed 275lbs when I had surgery. Now I'm 35 and weigh\n98 lbs and keep losing. I feel like I'm 80 years old. My hair has fallen out\nalmost completely. I look old and ragged. My bones are brittle. My skin is\nwrinkled and dry. Some days I wonder if I will live to be 40.\"\n\nMonica's Mexico Gastric Sleeve Horror Story\n\"I initially weighed 250 pounds. Since going to Mexico and having the sleeve,\nI've lost 131 pounds so far, and I'm still losing. I mean, how much weight can a\nperson lose before their heart just stops?\n\nEvery time I eat, I feel like my stomach is going to explode from the inside. It\nhurts so bad. Some days I just don't eat because the pain is excruciating. I was\ndischarged in terrible pain and bleeding from my incision, but they said it\nwould stop. The doctor that performed my surgery said that I was cleared after\nthe procedure, so there was no need to return there.\n\nSo far, my primary doctor has referred me to seven different specialists who\ndeal with bariatric patients. None of them will even see me for a consultation,\nand I genuinely believe it's because I had surgery in Mexico. I am talking with\nanother bariatric provider who is considering taking me on. It's still a long\nwait, though, because I have to go through all kinds of psych evaluations and\ncounseling before I can have any type of revision. That's only if he thinks I'm\nthe right candidate for it.\n\nI would tell anybody considering sleeve surgery to research as much as you can\nand do not ever go to a foreign country to have surgery and then expect to get\ndecent follow-up care in the States. I understand. It's a liability for some\ndoctors, and they just don't want to take the risk. Meanwhile, I am here wasting\naway and wondering if I will ever be well again.\"\n\nConclusion\nAll surgeries come with possible risks. Most are very successful, with little to\nno complications. Others end with the patient experiencing extreme complications\nand having their own horror story. It's always important, no matter what type of\nsurgery you are considering, to research the procedure and find a reputable\ndoctor who will be able to follow your recovery and offer additional medical\ncare in the event the unexpected happens.","html":"<p>Are you considering having gastric sleeve surgery? Have you heard horror stories of people who had the surgery and later regretted the decision?</p><p>As with any surgical procedure, there are benefits and risks. Health benefits of bariatric surgery far outweigh risks of surgery; however, for a small number of patients, complications may happen.</p><p>Some potential risks, or complications, are <strong><em>acute</em></strong>, meaning they occur quickly and are usually easily resolved.</p><p>Others are <strong><em>chronic</em></strong> or long-term, while the majority of people who have gastric sleeve surgery experience little to no complications. There is a small population who have experienced significant complications or gone through their own gastric sleeve horror stories.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/guts.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Diagram of the intestines.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Sleeve Gastrectomy, also known as Gastric Sleeve Surgery, is a bariatric procedure that involves surgically removing approximately ⅔ of the stomach.</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"what-is-gastric-sleeve-surgery\">What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?</h1><p><br>Gastric sleeve surgery involves surgically removing approximately ⅔ of the stomach and creating a pouch or sleeve-shaped stomach with the portion that remains. In recent years, it has been proven to be a safe and effective procedure to help promote weight loss.</p><p>Because of smaller stomach size, the amount of food that an individual can eat is reduced. This leads to feeling full more quickly, reduced caloric intake, and weight loss.</p><h1 id=\"gastric-sleeve-surgery-horror-stories-and-their-causes\">Gastric Sleeve Surgery Horror Stories and Their Causes</h1><p>Some of the reasons for complications that lead to gastric sleeve horror stories include:</p><h3 id=\"addiction-transfer\">Addiction Transfer </h3><p>Addiction transfer refers to the phenomenon that happens when an individual is no longer able to use food as a way to \"self-medicate\" for emotional issues.</p><p>For bariatric patients, a smaller stomach size means an inability to binge-eat. Therefore, other types of addictions become appealing and often seem to take control of one's actions and thoughts. Alcohol abuse, drug abuse and sexual addiction are some of the most common addiction transfers that occur after bariatric surgery. The person's reduced stomach size does not limit these addictions.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/addiction-1.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"The word addiction. \" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>After gastric sleeve surgery, patients can turn to other life threatening choices such as drugs to help fill the void.&nbsp;</em></figcaption></figure><h3 id=\"shane-s-addiction-transfer-gastric-sleeve-horror-story\">Shane's Addiction Transfer Gastric Sleeve Horror Story</h3><p><em>\"I used to be the guy who ate all the time. I ate so much that I ballooned up to over 400 lbs.</em></p><p><em>I was on my way to a heart attack fast when my doctor told me I needed to decide if I wanted to live to see my fortieth birthday. After I left his office, I was so mad and embarrassed. I remember going home and thinking I had to change.</em></p><p><em>After I had the sleeve surgery, my dad died. I wanted to feel numb from the pain, and since food was no longer an option for me, I went against everything I ever believed. First, it was pills. When they didn't work, I kept trying new things. I ended up a bonafide meth addict. After months of being strung out, I finally got in rehab and started counseling so I could learn to cope in a healthy way and how to become more healthy.</em></p><p><em>I didn't realize I was addicted to food until that addiction was transferred to meth. Both of them could have killed me, but didn't. If I were to give anyone advice about preparing for this surgery it would be to talk to your doctor and see a counselor for any addiction you have (including food) before you have the surgery. Addiction transfer is real, and it is frightening, but it doesn't have to kill you.\"</em></p><h3 id=\"abdominal-adhesions\">Abdominal adhesions</h3><p>Organs and tissues of the abdomen are naturally slippery, which allows them to move and slide past each other.This is helpful during movements such as bending, twisting, and walking. After surgery, especially after open surgery, scarring can make these tissues \"stick\" to each other, and this causes a pulling sensation. The sensation may range from slightly annoying to painful with movement. The development of adhesion is not uncommon after any type of surgery. However, if the adhesions are severe, it can lead to long term complications and the need for another surgery. Abdominal adhesions are more common for open operations than  minimally invasive surgery.</p><h3 id=\"maryann-s-gastric-sleeve-surgery-horror-story\">Maryann's Gastric Sleeve Surgery Horror Story</h3><p><em>\"It's been almost 2 years since I had gastric sleeve surgery, and I started getting some pain in my stomach. The doctors couldn't seem to figure out why. I had a colonoscopy and many scans and ultrasounds. They said it was constipation, so they started watching my gallbladder. The truth is, they just couldn't figure out anything.</em></p><p><em>I recently moved to another state and began having really severe pain in my stomach. I ended up in the ER. Less than 24 hours after I was discharged </em><strong><em>again</em></strong><em> with a diagnosis of constipation, I had to call 911. After another almost 48 grueling hours in the emergency room, they finally determined that I had scar tissue in my abdominal cavity that had wrapped around my colon. It was causing a bowel obstruction, which was cutting off the circulation in my colon.</em></p><p><em>I had to have emergency surgery. While I am happy that I've lost weight, I am now at risk for developing adhesions and having another obstruction. This experience has been one of the most horrible of my life!\"</em></p><h3 id=\"malnutrition\">Malnutrition</h3><p>Very uncommon and unusual complication for sleeve, but it may happen if patient is not able to eat due to anatomical sleeve problem or anorexia for other reasons. To be successful following bariatric surgery, a diet high in proteins and essential vitamins and minerals is crucial. This can be difficult due to reduced stomach size, a new or worsened sensitivity to certain types of foods, or the inability to digest foods as effectively as needed.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/sunkenstomach.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Picture of a stomach sunken in.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Failure to consume enough of the proper nutrients or the inability to absorb them can lead to a complicated, possibly life-threatening condition, known as malnutrition.</em></figcaption></figure><h3></h3><h3 id=\"debbie-s-gastric-sleeve-horror-story\">Debbie's Gastric Sleeve Horror Story</h3><p><em>\"When I was 34, I had gastric sleeve surgery. In the beginning, the weight seemed to melt off of me. I was ecstatic.</em></p><p><em>In my pre-surgery counseling, I was told that I would probably experience some hair loss and that I would need to take vitamins for the rest of my life (as well as other changes).</em></p><p><em>Without going into my whole medical history, I will tell you, and I wish I'd never heard of gastric sleeve surgery! No, it's not because it can't work or that it is not an effective tool.</em></p><p><em>It is. I was not emotionally prepared for the changes I should have made and was, therefore, non-compliant.</em></p><p><em>Six years after surgery, I have lost over 200 lbs. Great right? No! I lost almost all of my hair. I began to experience malnutrition because I couldn't eat and hold anything down. My face is wrinkled. My skin sags. I have had 4 fractures, had to have my gallbladder out, and had another surgery to remove scar tissue.</em></p><p><em>I look like a skeleton covered in a blanket of skin. I realize the benefits are more significant for some people than the potential complications. I just don't feel like this surgery is for everyone. I also now know that if you aren't mentally strong and willing to make some major changes in lifestyle, it can end up causing some terrible problems. I am a walking example of someone who should never have had this surgery!\"</em></p><h3 id=\"infection-or-abscess\">Infection or Abscess</h3><p>Many surgeons opt to begin patients on antibiotic therapy before and immediately following surgery. This is to help reduce the risk of infection following the procedure. If an infection does occur, prompt medical treatment is crucial to help prevent the risk of further complications. Some of the most common types of infections following surgery include incision site infections and deep organ infections due to leak.</p><p>When the infection goes untreated or if treatment is delayed, the risk of systemic infection (throughout the body) is increased. This can result in a dire medical emergency and could lead to permanent health issues or death.</p><h3 id=\"kathy-s-gastric-sleeve-surgery-horror-story\">Kathy's Gastric Sleeve Surgery Horror Story</h3><p>\"<em>My whole life was a roller coaster of losing and gaining weight. I knew I had to do something so I started researching gastric sleeve surgery. I couldn't afford to take a long time off from work, and the sleeve surgery had the shortest recovery time, at least it was supposed to!</em><br></p><p><em>After looking into the different surgeons and options locally, I decided it would be more cost-effective for me to opt for surgery in Mexico. I found a facility and surgeon that would do the procedure (all-inclusive) for $4000. I was blown away because every place I found in the States was at least $10,000.</em></p><p><em>I went to Mexico and had the surgery and initially had no problems. About a week after I returned to the States from Mexico, I started feeling horrible stomach pain, had fever and chills, and vomiting uncontrollably. I was short of breath and was scared I was going to have a heart attack. So, to the ER I went.</em></p><p><em>The ER doctor told me I leaked the staple line of my stomach that ended up causing an abscess in my abdomen. I was transferred to a different hospital and spent 2 weeks there. During the first week, I was in ICU and taking major antibiotics via IV. The second week, I still had vomiting and diarrhea, still had a fever, and was wishing I had never heard of the gastric sleeve surgery!</em></p><p><em>It took months after my discharge for me to feel stable again. So far, I have lost 124 lbs. The weight loss is excellent, but I still get sick when I eat some foods.</em></p><p><em>Every time I have a stomach ache, I worry that I may end up back in ICU. I understand that all surgeries have some risks, but if you are considering the gastric sleeve, make sure you get a doctor who can follow your care carefully.\"</em></p><h3 id=\"helen-s-gastric-sleeve-horror-story\">Helen's Gastric Sleeve Horror Story</h3><p>\"<em>At my heaviest, I weighed 347 lbs.  I am 5'6\". I was so overweight that I could barely walk without feeling like I was going to suffocate. I finally got the courage to talk to my doctor about having gastric sleeve surgery and got scheduled. Did I lose weight? Yeah.</em></p><p><em>About 120 lbs! I'm going to be honest, though. I wish I had been prepared for how much of a struggle it was after surgery. With the significant weight loss came major saggy skin. I felt like a 90 lb weakling carrying another 90 lbs of skin. I kept rashes under my breasts and the folds of abdominal skin. My legs were raw. Not because I was fat, but because I couldn't keep the skin from rubbing. I had multiple yeast infections in the skin folds because I would sweat. I smelled horrible all the time because of the yeast infections! My skin broke down and bled. It was a nightmare!</em></p><p><em>I had to buy tight bodysuits, so I could tuck all of my loose skin in them so that I could get dressed and not look ridiculous. I wouldn't even let my husband see me undressed. One thing I would suggest to anyone having this surgery is to ask several questions. This is not a quick fix. You can't lose weight and eat and live in any old way. It's a lifelong commitment.\"</em></p><h3 id=\"mexico-gastric-sleeve-horror-story\">Mexico Gastric Sleeve Horror Story</h3><p>Because the same procedures can be done for a fraction of the cost in other countries, many people are opting to leave the States for some elective procedures, such as the gastric sleeve. Although there are risks for any surgery, no matter where the procedure takes place, let's take a few minutes to explore some stories about Mexico Gastric Sleeve Surgery.</p><h3 id=\"danielle-s-mexico-gastric-sleeve-horror-story\">Danielle's Mexico Gastric Sleeve Horror Story</h3><p><em>\"'Save money and get skinny, they said. \"Weight loss surgery in Mexico is awesome.\" I fell for it, hook, line, and sinker. I felt like a cow sent to the slaughterhouse because that's what happened to me. They butchered me inside and outside!</em></p><p><em>I woke up from surgery, and I was feeling the most pain I'd ever felt in my life. I could ring blood out of the gown I was wearing. All I could think is I was going to die, and I'd never see my husband or son again. I made the trip home but was sick for the duration of it. I could barely walk off the plane. I couldn't eat and could barely talk.</em></p><p><em>I thought I was going to die. My mom took me to the emergency room straight from the airport. My spleen had been cut in two places. The surgeon who consulted said my stomach looked like it had been put through a meat grinder and stuffed back into my abdomen.</em></p><p><em>I was 30 years old and weighed 275lbs when I had surgery. Now I'm 35 and weigh 98 lbs and keep losing. I feel like I'm 80 years old. My hair has fallen out almost completely. I look old and ragged. My bones are brittle. My skin is wrinkled and dry. Some days I wonder if I will live to be 40.\"</em></p><h3 id=\"monica-s-mexico-gastric-sleeve-horror-story\">Monica's Mexico Gastric Sleeve Horror Story</h3><p><em>\"I initially weighed 250 pounds. Since going to Mexico and having the sleeve, I've lost 131 pounds so far, and I'm still losing. I mean, how much weight can a person lose before their heart just stops?</em></p><p><em>Every time I eat, I feel like my stomach is going to explode from the inside. It hurts so bad. Some days I just don't eat because the pain is excruciating. I was discharged in terrible pain and bleeding from my incision, but they said it would stop. The doctor that performed my surgery said that I was cleared after the procedure, so there was no need to return there.</em></p><p><em>So far, my primary doctor has referred me to seven different specialists who deal with bariatric patients. None of them will even see me for a consultation, and I genuinely believe it's because I had surgery in Mexico. I am talking with another bariatric provider who is considering taking me on. It's still a long wait, though, because I have to go through all kinds of psych evaluations and counseling before I can have any type of revision. That's only if he thinks I'm the right candidate for it.</em></p><p><em>I would tell anybody considering sleeve surgery to research as much as you can and do not ever go to a foreign country to have surgery and then expect to get decent follow-up care in the States. I understand. It's a liability for some doctors, and they just don't want to take the risk. Meanwhile, I am here wasting away and wondering if I will ever be well again.\"</em></p><h2 id=\"conclusion\">Conclusion</h2><p>All surgeries come with possible risks. Most are very successful, with little to no complications. Others end with the patient experiencing extreme complications and having their own horror story. It's always important, no matter what type of surgery you are considering, to research the procedure and find a reputable doctor who will be able to follow your recovery and offer additional medical care in the event the unexpected happens.</p>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/gastric-sleeve-horror-stories/","uuid":"d91a8a15-5d08-46a3-b19f-aaed9c4d5d3f","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5e4ac2a41ba5600038f15791"}},{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5e3725153075350038c78eec","title":"Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve","slug":"acid-reflux-after-gastric-sleeve","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/stomach-3532098_960_720.jpg","excerpt":"One of the least invasive options of bariatric surgery is the gastric sleeve. While gastric sleeve patients see a decrease in weight, they can begin to see an increase in acid reflux. ","custom_excerpt":"One of the least invasive options of bariatric surgery is the gastric sleeve. While gastric sleeve patients see a decrease in weight, they can begin to see an increase in acid reflux. ","created_at_pretty":"02 February, 2020","published_at_pretty":"26 February, 2020","updated_at_pretty":"12 April, 2020","created_at":"2020-02-02T14:37:57.000-05:00","published_at":"2020-02-26T07:00:00.000-05:00","updated_at":"2020-04-12T13:45:23.000-04:00","meta_title":"Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve","meta_description":"One of the best options of bariatric surgery is gastric sleeve. While patients see a decrease in weight, they can begin to see an increase in acid reflux. ","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},{"name":"Gintas Antanavicius, MD, FACS, FASMBS","slug":"gintas","bio":"Dr. G is a co-founder of BariBuilder. A US-based expert surgeon with over 10 years of bariatric experience, he regularly publishes research in medical journals like SOARD, Obesity Surgery, etc.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2018/11/drgheadshot.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Acid Reflux","slug":"acid-reflux","description":"Articles about acid reflux and weight loss surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/disease-4392164_1920.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"In recent years, one tool that has become increasingly popular in the fight\nagainst obesity and its associated risk factors is bariatric surgery\n[https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Bariatric-Surgery.aspx]. One of the\nleast invasive options of bariatric surgery is the gastric sleeve. Gastric\nsleeve is also known as sleeve gastrectomy or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG).\n\nAs with any surgical procedure, education is vital. Although weight loss\nimmediately after bariatric surgery is rapid, it is not a quick fix to obesity.\nLifelong lifestyle changes are the key to success. Because bariatric surgery is\na tool, not a stand-alone solution, weighing the pros and cons and making a\nwell-informed decision will help improve the chances of long-term success.\n\nWhat is Gastric Sleeve?\nGastric Sleeve [https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007435.htm] surgery\ninvolves surgically removing approximately two-thirds of the stomach. The\nremaining portion of the stomach is sleeve-shaped. Because of the smaller\nstomach size, the amount of food that an individual can eat is reduced. This\nreduction leads to feeling full more quickly, reduced caloric intake, and weight\nloss.\n\nGastric Sleeve Surgery is a form of bariatric surgery that involves removing\napproximately ⅔ of the stomach.Weight loss can have positive health benefits,\nincluding the improvement or reversal of some obesity-related illnesses such as\nhigh blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, and osteoarthritis.\n\nWhat Is Acid Reflux?\nThe increased abdominal pressure that is associated with obesity means the risk\nof developing acid reflux is also increased. An estimated 50%\n[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2827866/] of morbidly obese people\nexperience chronic acid reflux, also known as GERD (Gastro-Esophageal Reflux\nDisease).\n\nAcid Reflux\n[https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/guide/what-is-acid-reflux-disease], often\nreferred to as heartburn, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (round\nmuscle at the base of the esophagus) is relaxed, and stomach acid refluxes\nupward into the esophagus. It is most often characterized by a burning sensation\nin the center of the chest. Additionally, individuals may experience a sour or\nbitter taste in the mouth, which is associated with the reflux of gastric juice,\nincluding bile.\n\nSome individuals report an improvement in symptoms following gastric sleeve\nsurgery. On the other hand, some patients who never experienced reflux symptoms\nbefore gastric sleeve surgery may develop them afterward.\n\nWhy Acid Reflux May Improve After VSG\nThe weight loss that occurs after gastric sleeve surgery leads to a reduction in\nintra-abdominal pressure. This fact shows that acid reflux after gastric sleeve\nmay improve. The change in the size of the stomach often significantly reduces\nthe production of stomach acid. Additionally, the rate at which the stomach is\nemptied is increased. The combination of each of these factors prevents the\nreflux of the stomach contents into the esophagus, which could result in the\nease of acid reflux gastric sleeve symptoms.\n\nWhy Acid Reflux May Develop After VSG\nWhen sleeve gastrectomy is performed, approximately two-thirds of the stomach is\nremoved. The remaining portion of the stomach is much smaller, resembling the\nshape of a sleeve. The decreased size leads to increased pressure within the\nstomach. When VSG is performed, some fibers of the lower esophageal sphincter\nmay be affected. When this occurs, the result is a weakening of the sphincter,\nwhich means it is easier for acid to reflux back up into the esophagus from the\nstomach.\n\nIt’s important to know the signs of acid reflux and to seek medical attention if\nsymptoms persist.Symptoms of Acid Reflux\nLearning the symptoms of acid reflux\n[https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/acid-reflux-symptoms#common-symptoms] \nand knowing when to see a doctor is important, as uncontrolled reflux can cause\ndamage to the esophagus. Common signs and symptoms include:\n\n * Chest pain\n * A burning sensation in the chest (heartburn) that usually occurs after\n   eating. Heartburn is often worse at night.\n * Regurgitation of food or sour-tasting liquid\n * Difficulty swallowing\n * The feeling of having a lump in the throat\n\nWhen acid reflux becomes persistent, individuals may experience laryngitis,\ndisrupted sleep, new or worsening asthma symptoms, and chronic cough.\n\nDietary Considerations for Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve\nHow can I fix my acid reflux after gastric sleeve surgery? The answer: adhering\nto a bariatric-friendly diet is essential. Additionally, individuals who suffer\nfrom gastric sleeve acid reflux need to consider what foods they are eating that\nmay be contributing to the reflux symptoms. Learning to balance dietary choices\nwith foods that provide the needed protein and nutrients will help minimize the\nrisk of worsening gastric sleeve acid reflux.\n\nFoods That Trigger Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve\nFried foods and high-fat foods often cause the lower esophageal sphincter to\nrelax. This fact allows more acid to reflux into the esophagus and can result in\nuncomfortable symptoms. Additionally, these foods also delay the emptying of\nstomach contents.\n\nThe following foods have high-fat content. Avoid these or eat them sparingly:\n\n * French fries and onion rings\n * Full-fat dairy products, such as butter, whole milk, and regular cheese\n * Fatty or fried cuts of meat\n * Bacon fat, ham fat, and lard\n * Desserts or snacks, such as ice cream and potato chips\n\nFruits and vegetables are important in a healthy diet. Some of these foods,\nhowever, can cause or worsen acid reflux and gastric sleeve symptoms. Anyone who\nexperiences frequent acid reflux gastric sleeve should reduce or eliminate the\nfollowing foods:\n\n * Oranges\n * Grapefruit\n * Lemons\n * Limes\n * Pineapple\n * Tomatoes, tomato sauce\n\nChocolate also contains an ingredient that relaxes the lower esophageal\nsphincter and increases the risk of acid reflux.\n\nCaffeine causes an increase in stomach acid and can trigger reflux in many\npeople. Individuals who drink coffee, especially in the morning before consuming\nany food, may notice an improvement in acid reflux gastric sleeve symptoms.\n\nYour physician or dietician can provide education regarding which foods cause\nreflux symptoms and recommend alternatives that may ease the symptoms.Foods That\nMay Ease Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve\n * Vegetables are naturally low in sugar and fat, and they help reduce acid in\n   the stomach. A few examples of good vegetable choices include asparagus,\n   green beans, broccoli, and leafy greens.\n * Ginger is a natural treatment option for heartburn as well as other\n   gastrointestinal problems. It can be added to smoothies or tea to help ease\n   symptoms. Additionally, ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties.\n * Oatmeal can absorb acid in the stomach, thus reducing symptoms of acid\n   reflux.\n * Egg Whites. While eggs are a good source of protein, which is an essential\n   part of any bariatric patient’s diet, egg yolks may trigger reflux symptoms.\n   Egg whites, however, may help reduce some reflux symptoms.\n * Lean Meats such as turkey, chicken, fish, and seafood are low-fat and reduce\n   acid reflux symptoms. It is best to have meats grilled, baked, or broiled, as\n   fried foods may worsen reflux symptoms.\n * Healthy fats can be found in sources such as walnuts, olive oil, sunflower\n   oil, and avocados.\n\nMost bariatric surgeons have a dietician who provides pre- and postoperative\ncounseling for clients. Your dietician can help provide gastric sleeve acid\nreflux treatment options, if necessary. If you are unsure of what foods you\nshould add to, or remove from your diet, make an appointment to discuss your\ndiet plan. This consultation is essential, as bariatric patients need a diet\nthat is high in protein and essential vitamins. While some changes in dietary\nhabits may be necessary, your physician or dietician can advise you on what is\nmost appropriate for you.\n\nTreatment Options for Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve Surgery\nTreatment for acid reflux after gastric sleeve surgery\n[https://www.obesityaction.org/community/article-library/gerd-and-bariatric-surgery/] \nmay include a combination of dietary changes, as well as medications. While\nthere are over-the-counter medications available, a physician can determine if\nprescription medications will be more beneficial.\n\n * Antacids reduce the acid levels in the stomach. Most are available in tablet\n   or liquid form. Like any medication, antacids may cause side effects. For\n   example, magnesium salt can cause diarrhea, and aluminum salt can lead to\n   constipation. Antacid products usually combine aluminum and magnesium salts\n   to balance the effects. Additionally, the calcium carbonate ingredients in\n   some antacids provide a good source of calcium but can also cause\n   constipation.\n * H2 blockers such as Ranitidine (Zantac) and Famotidine (Pepcid) work to block\n   stomach acid production to provide more extended relief than antacids. When\n   taken before a meal, they have also been shown to prevent heartburn after\n   eating. These medications improve symptoms of heartburn and aid in the\n   healing process of the esophagus, which can become damaged from mild to\n   moderate irritation from heartburn.\n * Proton Pump Inhibitors are used to block acid production and allow time for\n   the damaged esophagus to heal. These products include Prevacid, Prilosec,\n   Protonix, Aciphex, and Nexium. Prevacid and Prilosec are available over the\n   counter-the-counter.\n * Surgical revision is something that some physicians may recommend, especially\n   if acid reflux symptoms are uncontrolled or if weight loss is inadequate due\n   to complications.\n\nIf you experience frequent or severe acid reflux symptoms, make an appointment\nwith your physician.When to See a Doctor For Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve\nWhile some individuals experience relief from acid reflux symptoms by taking\nover-the-counter antacids, knowing when to consult a physician is important.\n\nSome symptoms, such as chest pain, can also be indicative of other medical\nconditions. If you experience chest pain, especially if it is coupled with jaw\nor arm pain or shortness of breath, it is vital to seek medical attention\nimmediately. While the symptoms may be severe acid reflux, they are also warning\nsigns of a heart attack and should not be ignored.\n\nFurther, if you experience frequent or severe acid reflux symptoms or if you\ntake over-the-counter medications to relieve heartburn symptoms more than twice\na week, make an appointment with your physician.\n\nConclusion\nWhile obesity alone is a risk factor for developing acid reflux, gastric sleeve\nsurgery may also impact its occurrence. For some, symptoms will resolve\nfollowing surgery and weight loss. For others, acid reflux may develop after\nsurgery. Individuals considering gastric sleeve surgery should be adequately\nscreened for any history of acid reflux. Those with high risk may be advised to\nopt for an alternate bariatric surgery rather than sleeve gastrectomy. As with\nany medical decision, it is advisable to consult with your primary health care\nprovider and to have close follow-up before and after any surgical procedure.","html":"<p>In recent years, one tool that has become increasingly popular in the fight against obesity and its associated risk factors is <a href=\"https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Bariatric-Surgery.aspx\">bariatric surgery</a>. One of the least invasive options of bariatric surgery is the gastric sleeve. Gastric sleeve is also known as sleeve gastrectomy or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG).</p><p>As with any surgical procedure, education is vital. Although weight loss immediately after bariatric surgery is rapid, it is not a quick fix to obesity. Lifelong lifestyle changes are the key to success. Because bariatric surgery is a tool, not a stand-alone solution, weighing the pros and cons and making a well-informed decision will help improve the chances of long-term success.</p><h1 id=\"what-is-gastric-sleeve\">What is Gastric Sleeve?</h1><p><a href=\"https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007435.htm\">Gastric Sleeve</a> surgery involves surgically removing approximately two-thirds of the stomach. The remaining portion of the stomach is sleeve-shaped. Because of the smaller stomach size, the amount of food that an individual can eat is reduced. This reduction leads to feeling full more quickly, reduced caloric intake, and weight loss.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/stomachh.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Diagram of the stomach.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Gastric Sleeve Surgery is a form of bariatric surgery that involves removing approximately ⅔ of the stomach.</em></figcaption></figure><p>Weight loss can have positive health benefits, including the improvement or reversal of some obesity-related illnesses such as high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, and osteoarthritis.</p><h1 id=\"what-is-acid-reflux\">What Is Acid Reflux?</h1><p>The increased abdominal pressure that is associated with obesity means the risk of developing acid reflux is also increased. An<a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2827866/\"> estimated 50%</a> of morbidly obese people experience chronic acid reflux, also known as GERD (Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease).</p><p><a href=\"https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/guide/what-is-acid-reflux-disease\">Acid Reflux</a>, often referred to as heartburn, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (round muscle at the base of the esophagus) is relaxed, and stomach acid refluxes upward into the esophagus. It is most often characterized by a burning sensation in the center of the chest. Additionally, individuals may experience a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, which is associated with the reflux of gastric juice, including bile.</p><p>Some individuals report an improvement in symptoms following gastric sleeve surgery. On the other hand, some patients who never experienced reflux symptoms before gastric sleeve surgery may develop them afterward.</p><h1 id=\"why-acid-reflux-may-improve-after-vsg\">Why Acid Reflux May Improve After VSG</h1><p>The weight loss that occurs after gastric sleeve surgery leads to a reduction in intra-abdominal pressure. This fact shows that acid reflux after gastric sleeve may improve. The change in the size of the stomach often significantly reduces the production of stomach acid. Additionally, the rate at which the stomach is emptied is increased. The combination of each of these factors prevents the reflux of the stomach contents into the esophagus, which could result in the ease of acid reflux gastric sleeve symptoms.</p><h1 id=\"why-acid-reflux-may-develop-after-vsg\">Why Acid Reflux May Develop After VSG</h1><p>When sleeve gastrectomy is performed, approximately two-thirds of the stomach is removed. The remaining portion of the stomach is much smaller, resembling the shape of a sleeve. The decreased size leads to increased pressure <em>within the stomach</em>. When VSG is performed, some fibers of the lower esophageal sphincter may be affected. When this occurs, the result is a weakening of the sphincter, which means it is easier for acid to reflux back up into the esophagus from the stomach.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/acidreflux.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Diagram of the stomach with the words &quot;acid reflux&quot;.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>It’s important to know the signs of acid reflux and to seek medical attention if symptoms persist.</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"symptoms-of-acid-reflux\">Symptoms of Acid Reflux</h1><p>Learning the <a href=\"https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/acid-reflux-symptoms#common-symptoms\">symptoms of acid reflux</a> and knowing when to see a doctor is important, as uncontrolled reflux can cause damage to the esophagus. Common signs and symptoms include:</p><ul><li>Chest pain</li><li>A burning sensation in the chest (heartburn) that usually occurs after eating. Heartburn is often worse at night.</li><li>Regurgitation of food or sour-tasting liquid</li><li>Difficulty swallowing</li><li>The feeling of having a lump in the throat</li></ul><p>When acid reflux becomes persistent, individuals may experience laryngitis, disrupted sleep, new or worsening asthma symptoms, and chronic cough.</p><h1 id=\"dietary-considerations-for-acid-reflux-after-gastric-sleeve\">Dietary Considerations for Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve</h1><p>How can I fix my acid reflux after gastric sleeve surgery? The answer: adhering to a bariatric-friendly diet is essential. Additionally, individuals who suffer from gastric sleeve acid reflux need to consider what foods they are eating that may be contributing to the reflux symptoms. Learning to balance dietary choices with foods that provide the needed protein and nutrients will help minimize the risk of worsening gastric sleeve acid reflux.</p><h1 id=\"foods-that-trigger-acid-reflux-after-gastric-sleeve\">Foods That Trigger Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve</h1><p><strong>Fried foods and high-fat foods</strong> often cause the lower esophageal sphincter to relax. This fact allows more acid to reflux into the esophagus and can result in uncomfortable symptoms. Additionally, these foods also delay the emptying of stomach contents.</p><p>The following foods have high-fat content. Avoid these or eat them sparingly:</p><ul><li>French fries and onion rings</li><li>Full-fat dairy products, such as butter, whole milk, and regular cheese</li><li>Fatty or fried cuts of meat</li><li>Bacon fat, ham fat, and lard</li><li>Desserts or snacks, such as ice cream and potato chips</li></ul><p><strong>Fruits and vegetables</strong> are important in a healthy diet. Some of these foods, however, can cause or worsen acid reflux and gastric sleeve symptoms. Anyone who experiences frequent acid reflux gastric sleeve should reduce or eliminate the following foods:</p><ul><li>Oranges</li><li>Grapefruit</li><li>Lemons</li><li>Limes</li><li>Pineapple</li><li>Tomatoes, tomato sauce</li></ul><p><strong>Chocolate</strong> also contains an ingredient that relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter and increases the risk of acid reflux.</p><p><strong>Caffeine </strong>causes an increase in stomach acid and can trigger reflux in many people. Individuals who drink coffee, especially in the morning before consuming any food, may notice an improvement in acid reflux gastric sleeve symptoms.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/unnamedVMM38UDN.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Table full of healthy foods.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Your physician or dietician can provide education regarding which foods cause reflux symptoms and recommend alternatives that may ease the symptoms.</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"foods-that-may-ease-acid-reflux-after-gastric-sleeve\">Foods That May Ease Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve</h1><ul><li><strong>Vegetables</strong> are naturally low in sugar and fat, and they help reduce acid in the stomach. A few examples of good vegetable choices include asparagus, green beans, broccoli, and leafy greens.</li><li><strong>Ginger</strong> is a natural treatment option for heartburn as well as other gastrointestinal problems. It can be added to smoothies or tea to help ease symptoms. Additionally, ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties.</li><li><strong>Oatmeal </strong>can absorb acid in the stomach, thus reducing symptoms of acid reflux.</li><li><strong>Egg Whites. </strong> While eggs are a good source of protein, which is an essential part of any bariatric patient’s diet, egg yolks may trigger reflux symptoms. Egg whites, however, may help reduce some reflux symptoms.</li><li><strong>Lean Meats </strong>such as turkey, chicken, fish, and seafood are low-fat and reduce acid reflux symptoms. It is best to have meats grilled, baked, or broiled, as fried foods may worsen reflux symptoms.</li><li><strong>Healthy fats </strong>can be found in sources such as walnuts, olive oil, sunflower oil, and avocados.</li></ul><p>Most bariatric surgeons have a dietician who provides pre- and postoperative counseling for clients. Your dietician can help provide gastric sleeve acid reflux treatment options, if necessary. If you are unsure of what foods you should add to, or remove from your diet, make an appointment to discuss your diet plan. This consultation is essential, as bariatric patients need a diet that is high in protein and essential vitamins. While some changes in dietary habits may be necessary, your physician or dietician can advise you on what is most appropriate for <strong><em>you.</em></strong></p><h1 id=\"treatment-options-for-acid-reflux-after-gastric-sleeve-surgery\">Treatment Options for Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve Surgery</h1><p>Treatment for <a href=\"https://www.obesityaction.org/community/article-library/gerd-and-bariatric-surgery/\">acid reflux after gastric sleeve surgery</a> may include a combination of dietary changes, as well as medications. While there are over-the-counter medications available, a physician can determine if prescription medications will be more beneficial.</p><ul><li><strong>Antacids</strong> reduce the acid levels in the stomach. Most are available in tablet or liquid form. Like any medication, antacids may cause side effects. For example, magnesium salt can cause diarrhea, and aluminum salt can lead to constipation. Antacid products usually combine aluminum and magnesium salts to balance the effects. Additionally, the calcium carbonate ingredients in some antacids provide a good source of calcium but can also cause constipation.</li><li><strong>H2 blockers</strong> such as Ranitidine (Zantac) and Famotidine (Pepcid) work to block stomach acid production to provide more extended relief than antacids. When taken before a meal, they have also been shown to prevent heartburn after eating. These medications improve symptoms of heartburn and aid in the healing process of the esophagus, which can become damaged from mild to moderate irritation from heartburn.</li><li><strong>Proton Pump Inhibitors</strong> are used to block acid production and allow time for the damaged esophagus to heal. These products include Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix, Aciphex, and Nexium. Prevacid and Prilosec are available over the counter-the-counter.</li><li><strong>Surgical revision</strong> is something that some physicians may recommend, especially if acid reflux symptoms are uncontrolled or if weight loss is inadequate due to complications.</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/02/unnamedhospital.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Patient shaking with hands while laying in a hospital bed.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>If you experience frequent or severe acid reflux symptoms, make an appointment with your physician.</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"when-to-see-a-doctor-for-acid-reflux-after-gastric-sleeve\">When to See a Doctor For Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve</h1><p>While some individuals experience relief from acid reflux symptoms by taking over-the-counter antacids, knowing when to consult a physician is important.</p><p>Some symptoms, such as chest pain, can also be indicative of other medical conditions. If you experience chest pain, especially if it is coupled with jaw or arm pain or shortness of breath, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately. While the symptoms may be severe acid reflux, they are also warning signs of a heart attack and should not be ignored.</p><p>Further, if you experience frequent or severe acid reflux symptoms or if you take over-the-counter medications to relieve heartburn symptoms more than twice a week, make an appointment with your physician.</p><h1 id=\"conclusion\">Conclusion</h1><p>While obesity alone is a risk factor for developing acid reflux, gastric sleeve surgery may also impact its occurrence. For some, symptoms will resolve following surgery and weight loss. For others, acid reflux may develop after surgery. Individuals considering gastric sleeve surgery should be adequately screened for any history of acid reflux. Those with high risk may be advised to opt for an alternate bariatric surgery rather than sleeve gastrectomy. As with any medical decision, it is advisable to consult with your primary health care provider and to have close follow-up before and after any surgical procedure.</p>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/acid-reflux-after-gastric-sleeve/","uuid":"e47030ad-d0a6-4f5c-852b-bfee59dc2c9b","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5e3725153075350038c78eec"}},{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5e1a1ad30b127c00386d6f21","title":"Gastric Sleeve Complications","slug":"glastric-sleeve-complications","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/image3-1.png","excerpt":"Obesity is a prevalent epidemic.  One of the most popular surgical procedures to help facilitate weight loss is the vertical sleeve gastrectomy or gastric sleeve surgery. As with any weight loss surgery, it comes with many possible complications. ","custom_excerpt":"Obesity is a prevalent epidemic.  One of the most popular surgical procedures to help facilitate weight loss is the vertical sleeve gastrectomy or gastric sleeve surgery. As with any weight loss surgery, it comes with many possible complications. ","created_at_pretty":"11 January, 2020","published_at_pretty":"05 February, 2020","updated_at_pretty":"12 April, 2020","created_at":"2020-01-11T13:58:27.000-05:00","published_at":"2020-02-05T07:00:00.000-05:00","updated_at":"2020-04-12T13:53:55.000-04:00","meta_title":"Gastric Sleeve Complications","meta_description":"Gastric sleeve surgery is a popular weight loss surgery to help obesity. As with any weight loss surgery, it comes with many possible complications. ","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},{"name":"Gintas Antanavicius, MD, FACS, FASMBS","slug":"gintas","bio":"Dr. G is a co-founder of BariBuilder. A US-based expert surgeon with over 10 years of bariatric experience, he regularly publishes research in medical journals like SOARD, Obesity Surgery, etc.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2018/11/drgheadshot.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Complications","slug":"complications","description":"Articles about complications in weight loss surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/nik-shuliahin-BuNWp1bL0nc-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"Obesity is an epidemic, especially in western cultures. Although there are many\ndietary therapies available, many people struggling with obesity today seem to\nbe more responsive to surgical intervention. One of the most popular surgical\nprocedures to help facilitate weight loss is the vertical sleeve gastrectomy,\nalso known as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric sleeve surgery.  Typically, the\nsurgery is only performed after other weight loss attempts have been\nunsuccessful.\n\nMany people struggling with obesity seem to be more responsive to surgical\nintervention.VSG involves removing approximately 80% of the stomach. The\nremaining part is a tube or sleeve-shaped.  In addition to decreased stomach\nsize, the procedure causes hormonal changes. Together, these changes promote\nweight loss. Further, hormonal changes may also help relieve some conditions\nassociated with obesity, such as heart disease and hypertension or high blood\npressure.\n\nIt’s important to ask questions and learn as much as possible before committing\nto having any surgical procedure.Before having gastric sleeve surgery, it’s\nimportant to ask questions and learn as much as possible about the procedure.\nThis will allow you the chance to weigh out the pros and cons associated with\ngastric sleeve surgery and gastric sleeve complications. \n\nIn general, vertical sleeve gastrectomy surgery is an option for individuals\nwho:\n\n * Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher (morbid obesity)\n * Have a BMI that is 35 to 39.9 (obesity), in addition to weight-related health\n   issues, such as high blood pressure, severe sleep apnea or type 2 diabetes\n\nTo achieve and maintain weight loss after sleeve gastrectomy surgery, one must\nbe willing to follow the guidelines associated with a healthier lifestyle. For\noptimum success, these changes must become a permanent part of daily living.\n[https://bariatric.stopobesityforlife.com/patient-resources/bariatric-program/post-bariatric-lifestyle-change/] \nMost surgeons require patients to participate in long-term follow-up. This\nfollow-up includes monitoring lifestyle, behavior, nutrition habits, and any\nchanges to medical conditions.\n\nBefore meeting with a weight loss surgeon, take the time to write down any\nquestions about the procedure so you can ask them. Knowing the facts will help\nyou determine if this is the best course of action for your weight loss goals.\n\nKnowing what complications to expect will help prospective sleeve gastrectomy\npatients make an informed decision.Possible Complications\nAs with any major surgery, sleeve gastrectomy poses some potential risks.\nGastric sleeve complications can range from those that are immediately urgent to\nlonger-term issues. Let’s take a look at some common gastric sleeve\ncomplications:\n\nShort-Term Sleeve Gastrectomy Complications\n * Dehydration: One of the most common gastric sleeve early complications\n   following vertical sleeve gastrectomy is dehydration. This complication can\n   be the result of anesthesia-related nausea and vomiting. Also, the decreased\n   stomach size and tissue swelling that occurs after surgery make it difficult\n   for individuals to consume enough fluids. To help reduce the risk of\n   dehydration, bariatric healthcare providers recommend sipping liquids\n   throughout the whole day.\n   \n * Hemorrhage: The risk of postoperative bleeding following a vertical sleeve\n   gastrectomy is another possible complication and it has been reported to\n   occur between 1% and 6% of patients. Common sites of post-sleeve bleeding\n   include the stomach’s staple line, the liver, spleen, and the abdominal wall\n   at the sites where surgical instruments were introduced.\n   \n   Any time surgical instruments are used, there is a risk of accidental nicking\n   of an organ or tissue that is not the intended mark of surgery. During the\n   early postoperative, or recovery stage, surgical staff will monitor vital\n   signs for any symptoms of bleeding. Additionally, many patients will leave\n   with a surgical drain in place. This drain facilitates the removal of excess\n   fluids (including blood or small clots) from the abdomen. In most cases, the\n   drain is removed before the patient is discharged from the hospital.\n   \n * Infection: Over 20 million surgical procedures are performed in the United\n   States each year. Of those surgeries, up to 5% may result in surgical site\n   infections\n   [https://www.infectiousdiseaseadvisor.com/home/decision-support-in-medicine/hospital-infection-control/surgical-site-infections/]\n   . Infections can cause poor wound healing, more extended hospital stays, and\n   further treatment, such as the need for antibiotics. Close monitoring after\n   the surgery is crucial in helping to identify signs of infection. When left\n   unaddressed, postoperative infections may result in more severe issues,\n   including organ failure or sepsis.\n   [https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sepsis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351214]\n   \n   A surgical site infection is defined as an infection that occurs within 30\n   days of surgery, and that appears to be explicitly related to the surgical\n   procedure. The infection may be incisional or organ/space infection.\n   Incisional infections occur at the site of the incision. An organ/space\n   infection affects a specific space, such as the abdomen, or an organ, like\n   the stomach or other organs that may be manipulated during surgery.\n\nSome circumstances, such as undergoing major surgery, can increase a person's\nrisk of developing dangerous clots. * Pulmonary Embolism: Pulmonary embolism or blood clots are another possible\n   complication. Blood clot formation is the body’s natural response to an\n   injury. While the development of clots following a cut or other injury is\n   usually harmless, there are times when clot formation can be problematic.\n   Some circumstances, such as undergoing major surgery, can increase a person’s\n   risk of developing dangerous clots.\n   \n   For example, when a blood clot gets caught in an artery that goes from the\n   heart to the lungs, this is known as a pulmonary embolism\n   [https://www.webmd.com/lung/what-is-a-pulmonary-embolism]. The blood clot\n   blocks normal blood flow, which can result in damage to the lungs and\n   decreased oxygen levels in the blood. If the condition is not resolved, the\n   lack of oxygen can result in harm to other organs in the body, as well.\n   \n   To help prevent a pulmonary embolism, it's vital to get post-surgery patients\n   moving as quickly as possible. Some surgeons may also order medication to\n   help prevent clot formation, such as heparin. Individuals who have limited\n   mobility before surgery is at increased risk of developing clots.\n   \n * Staple line leak: A potentially severe gastric sleeve complication is staple\n   line leakage. Healing problems due to diabetes, smoking or infections,\n   technical errors are the potential underlying causes of this complication.\n\nLong-Term Gastric Sleeve Complications\n * Stricture: Formation of a stricture is another potential gastric sleeve\n   complication. In some cases, a stricture may occur suddenly as a result of\n   tissue edema (swelling) following surgery. For others, it may be a delayed\n   response to tissue healing and scar tissue.\n   \n   Symptoms of a stricture\n   [https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-75841-1_11] include\n   difficulty swallowing, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment depends on when the\n   stricture occurs. For example, if a stricture occurs shortly after surgery,\n   allowing the bowel to rest by restricting food intake and promoting hydration\n   may be helpful. If a stricture occurs and there are no other immediate\n   conditions, such as a leak or abscess, it will likely resolve on its own with\n   no need for further medical intervention.\n   \n   However, if the stricture does not resolve without treatment, further\n   intervention may be necessary. These interventions may include dilating\n   (stretching) the area that is constricted or surgically correcting the\n   stricture.\n   \n * Nutritional deficiencies: The goals of bariatric surgery include maximizing\n   weight loss and achieving and maintaining nutritional health. This goal also\n   means preventing dietary deficiencies.\n   \n   Lifelong nutritional support is key to the success of patients who undergo\n   bariatric surgery. Following surgery, patients are at increased risk for\n   deficiencies, which can have long-term results of anemia, osteoporosis, or\n   other health conditions. Deficiencies often occur because of several factors,\n   including reduced dietary intake, inadequate supplementation, and\n   malabsorption of consumed nutrients.\n   \n   Sangeeta Kashyap, MD\n   [https://www.healio.com/endocrinology/obesity/news/online/%7B8d1b1180-177c-4250-a262-6714636e5f55%7D/nutritional-deficiencies-common-before-and-after-bariatric-surgery]\n   , associate professor of medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of\n   Medicine and a staff physician at the Cleveland Clinic’s department of\n   endocrinology, states, “It’s important for bariatric patients to, at least\n   twice a year, get vitamin levels checked because they may not be immediately\n   present with symptoms of deficiencies.”\n   \n   Symptoms are often not recognized or are overlooked, because losing weight\n   and experiencing improvements in other obesity-related issues, causes\n   individuals to feel much better after surgery. Unfortunately, the feelings of\n   improved health post-surgically often overshadow the understanding that\n   sleeve gastrectomy is a permanent body change. Because of these changes,\n   absorption and processing of vitamins are not as easy as before surgery.\n\nAnyone who has had weight loss surgery and experiences GERD symptoms should\nnotify their surgeon right away. * Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) - This condition occurs when weak\n   muscles allow food and acids to move back up into the esophagus. One of the\n   most common symptoms of GERD is heartburn. GERD is uncomfortable and\n   sometimes painful. If left untreated, it can cause damage to the esophagus.\n   \n   If heartburn occurs two or more times weekly, chances are the issue is\n   associated with GERD, and not a simple case of indigestion. Some symptoms of\n   GERD include trouble swallowing, continually needing to clear the throat,\n   wheezing, laryngitis, and chest pain.\n   \n   People who are obese and whose Body Mass Index (BMI) increases are more\n   likely to develop GERD. While weight loss may help relieve symptoms of GERD,\n   some individuals either develop or notice an improvement in GERD symptoms.\n   Gastric bypass often resolves symptoms of GERD in patients. However, after a\n   sleeve gastrectomy, GERD symptoms may continue or worsen. Therefore, it is\n   not generally recommended that individuals with severe GERD\n   [https://www.obesityaction.org/community/article-library/gerd-and-bariatric-surgery/] \n   have VSG.\n   \n   Anyone who has had weight loss surgery and experiences GERD symptoms should\n   notify their surgeon right away. For many, the only way to relieve symptoms\n   is to eat something to “settle the stomach.” This fact can, unfortunately,\n   lead to decreased chances of long-term weight loss success. It is much more\n   beneficial to address symptoms as soon as they occur.\n   \n * Regain: While regain of weight may not be what some consider a “surgical\n   complication,” it can result in long-term weight-related complications, an\n   increased risk of developing secondary medical conditions, also called\n   comorbidities, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.\n   \n   Weight gain can occur if recommended lifestyle changes are not followed.  For\n   example, frequently snacking on high-calorie foods could result in a stall in\n   weight loss or regain.\n   \n   Following the recommended dietary intake and participating in regular\n   physical activity and exercise can help reduce the risk of regain following\n   gastric sleeve surgery. Also, it’s imperative to keep follow-up appointments\n   so that your physician can monitor your progress.\n\nEvaluate your personal needs and the risks vs. benefits to help decide if sleeve\ngastrectomy is the best option for you.Conclusion\nAs with any surgical procedure, there are potential gastric sleeve complications\nassociated with the surgery. It’s important to discuss your weight loss goals\nwith your doctor and to consider why you feel weight loss surgery could be\nhelpful. Evaluating your personal needs and weighing the risk of complications\nagainst the potential benefits should help you decide if sleeve gastrectomy\nsurgery is the best option for you.","html":"<p>Obesity is an epidemic, especially in western cultures. Although there are many dietary therapies available, many people struggling with obesity today seem to be more responsive to surgical intervention. One of the most popular surgical procedures to help facilitate weight loss is the vertical sleeve gastrectomy, also known as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric sleeve surgery.  Typically, the surgery is only performed after other weight loss attempts have been unsuccessful.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/image3.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Group of people standing around talking and drinking.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Many people struggling with obesity seem to be more responsive to surgical intervention.</em></figcaption></figure><p>VSG involves removing approximately 80% of the stomach. The remaining part is a tube or sleeve-shaped.  In addition to decreased stomach size, the procedure causes hormonal changes. Together, these changes promote weight loss. Further, hormonal changes may also help relieve some conditions associated with obesity, such as heart disease and hypertension or high blood pressure.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/unnamedd.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Sign that says Ask on the side of a building.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>It’s important to ask questions and learn as much as possible before committing to having any surgical procedure.</em></figcaption></figure><p>Before having gastric sleeve surgery, it’s important to ask questions and learn as much as possible about the procedure. This will allow you the chance to weigh out the pros and cons associated with gastric sleeve surgery and gastric sleeve complications. </p><p>In general, vertical sleeve gastrectomy surgery is an option for individuals who:</p><ul><li>Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher (morbid obesity)</li><li>Have a BMI that is 35 to 39.9 (obesity), in addition to weight-related health issues, such as high blood pressure, severe sleep apnea or type 2 diabetes</li></ul><p>To achieve and maintain weight loss after sleeve gastrectomy surgery, one must be willing to follow the guidelines associated with a healthier lifestyle. For optimum success, these changes must become a permanent part of <a href=\"https://bariatric.stopobesityforlife.com/patient-resources/bariatric-program/post-bariatric-lifestyle-change/\">daily living.</a>  Most surgeons require patients to participate in long-term follow-up. This follow-up includes monitoring lifestyle, behavior, nutrition habits, and any changes to medical conditions.</p><p>Before meeting with a weight loss surgeon, take the time to write down any questions about the procedure so you can ask them. Knowing the facts will help you determine if this is the best course of action for your weight loss goals.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/image6-1.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Question mark in the middle of a maze.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><i>Knowing what complications to expect will help prospective sleeve gastrectomy patients make an informed decision.</i></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"possible-complications\">Possible Complications</h1><p>As with any major surgery, sleeve gastrectomy poses some potential risks. Gastric sleeve complications can range from those that are immediately urgent to longer-term issues. Let’s take a look at some common gastric sleeve complications:</p><h3 id=\"short-term-sleeve-gastrectomy-complications\">Short-Term Sleeve Gastrectomy Complications</h3><ul><li><strong><em>Dehydration: </em></strong>One of the most common gastric sleeve early complications following vertical sleeve gastrectomy is dehydration. This complication can be the result of anesthesia-related nausea and vomiting. Also, the decreased stomach size and tissue swelling that occurs after surgery make it difficult for individuals to consume enough fluids. To help reduce the risk of dehydration, bariatric healthcare providers recommend sipping liquids throughout the whole day.<br></li><li><strong><em>Hemorrhage:</em> </strong>The risk of postoperative bleeding following a vertical sleeve gastrectomy is another possible complication and it has been reported to occur between 1% and 6% of patients. Common sites of post-sleeve bleeding include the stomach’s staple line, the liver, spleen, and the abdominal wall at the sites where surgical instruments were introduced.<br><br>Any time surgical instruments are used, there is a risk of accidental nicking of an organ or tissue that is not the intended mark of surgery. During the early postoperative, or recovery stage, surgical staff will monitor vital signs for any symptoms of bleeding. Additionally, many patients will leave with a surgical drain in place. This drain facilitates the removal of excess fluids (including blood or small clots) from the abdomen. In most cases, the drain is removed before the patient is discharged from the hospital.<br></li><li><strong><em>Infection: </em> </strong>Over 20 million surgical procedures are performed in the United States each year. Of those surgeries, up to <a href=\"https://www.infectiousdiseaseadvisor.com/home/decision-support-in-medicine/hospital-infection-control/surgical-site-infections/\">5% may result in surgical site infections</a>. Infections can cause poor wound healing, more extended hospital stays, and further treatment, such as the need for antibiotics. Close monitoring after the surgery is crucial in helping to identify signs of infection. When left unaddressed, postoperative infections may result in more severe issues, including organ failure or <a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sepsis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351214\">sepsis.</a><br><br>A surgical site infection is defined as an infection that occurs within 30 days of surgery, and that appears to be explicitly related to the surgical procedure. The infection may be incisional or organ/space infection. Incisional infections occur at the site of the incision. An organ/space infection affects a specific space, such as the abdomen, or an organ, like the stomach or other organs that may be manipulated during surgery.</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/unnamed.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Depiction of what a blood clot looks like in the veins. \" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Some circumstances, such as undergoing major surgery, can increase a person's risk of developing dangerous clots.</em></figcaption></figure><ul><li><strong><em>Pulmonary Embolism</em>: </strong>Pulmonary embolism or blood clots are another possible complication. Blood clot formation is the body’s natural response to an injury. While the development of clots following a cut or other injury is usually harmless, there are times when clot formation can be problematic. Some circumstances, such as undergoing major surgery, can increase a person’s risk of developing dangerous clots.<br><br>For example, when a blood clot gets caught in an artery that goes from the heart to the lungs, this is known as a <a href=\"https://www.webmd.com/lung/what-is-a-pulmonary-embolism\">pulmonary embolism</a>. The blood clot blocks normal blood flow, which can result in damage to the lungs and decreased oxygen levels in the blood. If the condition is not resolved, the lack of oxygen can result in harm to other organs in the body, as well.<br><br>To help prevent a pulmonary embolism, it's vital to get post-surgery patients moving as quickly as possible. Some surgeons may also order medication to help prevent clot formation, such as heparin. Individuals who have limited mobility before surgery is at increased risk of developing clots.<br></li><li><strong><em>Staple line leak</em>: </strong>A potentially severe gastric sleeve complication is staple line leakage. Healing problems due to diabetes, smoking or infections, technical errors are the potential underlying causes of this complication.</li></ul><h3 id=\"long-term-gastric-sleeve-complications\">Long-Term Gastric Sleeve Complications</h3><ul><li><strong>Stricture: </strong>Formation of a stricture is another potential gastric sleeve complication. In some cases, a stricture may occur suddenly as a result of tissue edema (swelling) following surgery. For others, it may be a delayed response to tissue healing and scar tissue.<br><br>Symptoms of a <a href=\"https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-75841-1_11\">stricture</a> include difficulty swallowing, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment depends on when the stricture occurs. For example, if a stricture occurs shortly after surgery, allowing the bowel to rest by restricting food intake and promoting hydration may be helpful. If a stricture occurs and there are no other immediate conditions, such as a leak or abscess, it will likely resolve on its own with no need for further medical intervention.<br><br>However, if the stricture does not resolve without treatment, further intervention may be necessary. These interventions may include dilating (stretching) the area that is constricted or surgically correcting the stricture.<br></li><li><strong>Nutritional deficiencies: </strong>The goals of bariatric surgery include maximizing weight loss and achieving and maintaining nutritional health. This goal also means preventing dietary deficiencies.<br><br>Lifelong nutritional support is key to the success of patients who undergo bariatric surgery. Following surgery, patients are at increased risk for deficiencies, which can have long-term results of anemia, osteoporosis, or other health conditions. Deficiencies often occur because of several factors, including reduced dietary intake, inadequate supplementation, and malabsorption of consumed nutrients.<br><br><a href=\"https://www.healio.com/endocrinology/obesity/news/online/%7B8d1b1180-177c-4250-a262-6714636e5f55%7D/nutritional-deficiencies-common-before-and-after-bariatric-surgery\">Sangeeta Kashyap, MD</a>, associate professor of medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine and a staff physician at the Cleveland Clinic’s department of endocrinology, states, “It’s important for bariatric patients to, at least twice a year, get vitamin levels checked because they may not be immediately present with symptoms of deficiencies.”<br><br>Symptoms are often not recognized or are overlooked, because losing weight and experiencing improvements in other obesity-related issues, causes individuals to feel much better after surgery. Unfortunately, the feelings of improved health post-surgically often overshadow the understanding that sleeve gastrectomy is a permanent body change. Because of these changes, absorption and processing of vitamins are not as easy as before surgery.</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/unnameddd.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Woman struggling with GERD touching her neck. \" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Anyone who has had weight loss surgery and experiences GERD symptoms should notify their surgeon right away.</em></figcaption></figure><ul><li><strong>Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) </strong>- This condition occurs when weak muscles allow food and acids to move back up into the esophagus. One of the most common symptoms of GERD is heartburn. GERD is uncomfortable and sometimes painful. If left untreated, it can cause damage to the esophagus.<br><br>If heartburn occurs two or more times weekly, chances are the issue is associated with GERD, and not a simple case of indigestion. Some symptoms of GERD include trouble swallowing, continually needing to clear the throat, wheezing, laryngitis, and chest pain.<br><br>People who are obese and whose Body Mass Index (BMI) increases are more likely to develop GERD. While weight loss may help relieve symptoms of GERD, some individuals either develop or notice an improvement in GERD symptoms. Gastric bypass often resolves symptoms of GERD in patients. However, after a sleeve gastrectomy, GERD symptoms may continue or worsen. Therefore, it is not generally recommended that individuals with<a href=\"https://www.obesityaction.org/community/article-library/gerd-and-bariatric-surgery/\"> severe GERD</a> have VSG.<br><br>Anyone who has had weight loss surgery and experiences GERD symptoms should notify their surgeon right away. For many, the only way to relieve symptoms is to eat something to “settle the stomach.” This fact can, unfortunately, lead to decreased chances of long-term weight loss success. It is much more beneficial to address symptoms as soon as they occur.<br></li><li><strong><em>Regain: </em></strong>While regain of weight may not be what some consider a “surgical complication,” it can result in long-term weight-related complications, an increased risk of developing secondary medical conditions, also called comorbidities, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.<br><br>Weight gain can occur if recommended lifestyle changes are not followed.  For example, frequently snacking on high-calorie foods could result in a stall in weight loss or regain.<br><br>Following the recommended dietary intake and participating in regular physical activity and exercise can help reduce the risk of regain following gastric sleeve surgery. Also, it’s imperative to keep follow-up appointments so that your physician can monitor your progress.</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/image5-1.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Two different signs that say Choice. \" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Evaluate your personal needs and the risks vs. benefits to help decide if sleeve gastrectomy is the best option for you.</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"conclusion\">Conclusion</h1><p>As with any surgical procedure, there are potential gastric sleeve complications associated with the surgery. It’s important to discuss your weight loss goals with your doctor and to consider why you feel weight loss surgery could be helpful. Evaluating your personal needs and weighing the risk of complications against the potential benefits should help you decide if sleeve gastrectomy surgery is the best option for you.</p>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/glastric-sleeve-complications/","uuid":"c3ea06fc-32db-4659-b27a-7d8654308f0e","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5e1a1ad30b127c00386d6f21"}},{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5e20abbe6a73af00447bd61a","title":"Gastric Sleeve Pouch Reset","slug":"gastric-sleeve-pouch-reset","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/image1-1.png","excerpt":"To experience continued success after gastric sleeve surgery, it is essential to stay focused on the recommended diet and weight loss plan. If you have experienced a setback and have begun to see some regain following gastric sleeve surgery, a gastric sleeve pouch reset may be beneficial.","custom_excerpt":"To experience continued success after gastric sleeve surgery, it is essential to stay focused on the recommended diet and weight loss plan. If you have experienced a setback and have begun to see some regain following gastric sleeve surgery, a gastric sleeve pouch reset may be beneficial.","created_at_pretty":"16 January, 2020","published_at_pretty":"02 February, 2020","updated_at_pretty":"19 January, 2021","created_at":"2020-01-16T13:30:22.000-05:00","published_at":"2020-02-02T07:00:00.000-05:00","updated_at":"2021-01-18T22:20:49.000-05:00","meta_title":"Gastric Sleeve or VSG Pouch Reset","meta_description":"If you have experienced a setback and have begun to see some regain following gastric sleeve surgery, a gastric sleeve pouch reset may be beneficial.","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},{"name":"Gintas Antanavicius, MD, FACS, FASMBS","slug":"gintas","bio":"Dr. G is a co-founder of BariBuilder. A US-based expert surgeon with over 10 years of bariatric experience, he regularly publishes research in medical journals like SOARD, Obesity Surgery, etc.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2018/11/drgheadshot.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Pouch Reset","slug":"pouch-reset","description":"Articles about pouch reset and weight loss surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/belly-2473_1920.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"Have you had, or are you considering having, vertical sleeve gastrectomy? If so,\neducating yourself before surgery, and throughout the journey, will help improve\nyour long-term post-surgical success. No matter what stage of the process you\nare in, keep in mind, there are times that you will feel the process is more\nnatural and then times when you think things are more complicated. Everyone who\nundergoes gastric sleeve surgery feels this way.\n\nWeight loss is a journey, and no two people experience it the same. Even the\nmost determined people will experience highs and lows following gastric sleeve\nsurgery. Having difficult moments is not a sign of failure. The success of any\nweight loss surgery depends on several factors, including following the advice\nand guidance of the surgical team, adhering to a post-operative diet and\nlearning how to identify and modify unhealthy eating habits following surgery.\n\nWeight loss is a journey, and sometimes a fresh start is all you may need to\nreset your weight loss.Is It Really “All In Your Head”?\nThe first year following sleeve gastrectomy is known as the “honeymoon” phase.\nDuring this time, patients have limited hunger, eat tiny amounts of food, and\noften struggle with consuming the recommended amount of food daily. As the body\nadjusts to a smaller stomach size and the incapability of consuming large\namounts of food, the weight seems to disappear rather quickly. \n\nUnfortunately, the honeymoon period does not last permanently. As individuals\nget closer to the first anniversary of the surgery, it becomes easier to consume\nlarger volumes of food, and the feeling of hunger becomes more pronounced. For\nthis reason, it is crucial to learn to distinguish between head hunger and real\nphysical hunger. Failure to do so, coupled with the ability to eat more food,\ncan result in regain. \n\nLearning to differentiate between physical hunger and head hunger may feel\noverwhelming.Perhaps one of the most frustrating issues to deal with is the fact\nthat changing the size of the stomach does not automatically change the way the\nmind relates to food. Head hunger\n[https://www.bariatriccookery.com/coping-head-hunger/], often referred to as\nemotional hunger, is the desire a person feels to eat for any reason other than\nphysical hunger. Head hunger is real, and it is a common barrier to weight loss.\nNevertheless, despite this hurdle, you can overcome it!\n\nLearning to identify and modify unhealthy eating habits is one of the most\nimportant things a person can do to help improve the chances of success\nfollowing any bariatric surgery. Talking with your surgeon and care team will\nhelp you learn what to expect both pre- and post-surgically. Additionally, close\nfollow-up with your medical team will be of great benefit as the team can help\nmonitor your progression through your weight loss journey.\n\nThe Dreaded Question: What If I Experience Regain?\nDespite being a great tool to fight obesity, bariatric surgery is not a magic\n“fix-all”. The post-honeymoon weight regain that many experiences can be\nattributed to several factors.\n\nAs time progresses, some individuals revert to making poor food choices, similar\nto those they made before surgery. One of the most common mistakes that\nbariatric patients make is consuming slider foods.\n\nSlider foods\n[https://www.obesityhelp.com/articles/what-are-slider-foods-should-i-be-wary-of-them]\nhave little to no nutritional value. As the name suggests, these foods can\neasily slide through the stomach pouch and into the intestine rapidly. When this\nhappens, carbohydrates will be absorbed quickly and will result in a stall of\nweight loss and regain of weight. Don’t give up, though! There is still hope.\n\nIf you have experienced regain following sleeve gastrectomy, don’t give up!\nGastric Sleeve Pouch Reset: What is That?\nTo experience continued success after gastric sleeve surgery, it is essential to\nstay focused on the recommended diet and weight loss plan and to continue\nfollow-ups with your physician. If you have experienced a setback and have begun\nto see some regain following gastric sleeve surgery, a gastric sleeve pouch\nreset, or VSG pouch reset may be beneficial to help you get back on track. A\ngastric sleeve pouch reset is a plan that is designed to take an individual\nthrough the post-operative diet progression but at a faster pace.\n\nFollowing sleeve surgery, a regular bariatric diet typically has up to five\nstages and may last between 8 and 10 weeks, depending on the surgeon’s\nrecommended guidelines. In contrast, the reset uses similar guidelines but lasts\nbetween 5 and 10 days. The reset begins with clear liquids and progresses to\nfull liquids, soft foods, and then solids.\n\nWhen there is a need to refocus and get back on track with healthy eating\nhabits, a gastric sleeve pouch reset may be helpful.It’s important to note that\nthe gastric sleeve pouch reset VSG is not intended to be repeated weekly or even\nmonthly. Instead, it is designed to help reset your body to the immediate\npost-surgery way of eating. Keep in mind that the VSG pouch reset will not\nshrink your stomach, cut your cravings for sweets or carbs, reduce hunger, or\nincrease the feeling of fullness. It will help get you back on track with proper\nfood and portion choices. Like the surgery, however, the gastric sleeve pouch\nreset is a tool.  This fact means it only works if you do!\n\nThere are several variations of the pouch reset VSG. Those variations range from\n48 hours, 5 days\n[https://www.livestrong.com/article/430673-how-to-complete-five-day-bariatric-diet/]\n, and up to 10 day resets\n[https://jetmedicaltourism.com/gastric-sleeve-pouch-reset/]. Below is an example\nof a 10-day pouch reset after gastric sleeve:\n\nDay 1: Clear Liquids\n\n * Water\n * Tea\n * Broth (chicken, vegetable, beef)\n * Sugar-free drinks (crystal light, propel, vitamin zero water, Powerade zero,\n   Mio, etc.)\n * Unsweetened tea\n\nDay 2 and 3: Thick Liquids\n\n * Must drink 3 protein shakes\n   [https://bariatricity.com/product-category/protein-shakes/] and as many\n   servings of this vegetable soup as you want, spaced out every 2-3 hours\n * Vegetable soup: Click here\n   [https://www.favfamilyrecipes.com/weight-loss-magic-soup/] for recipe\n * 64-ounces water or a sugar-free beverage\n\nDay 4 and 5: Soft Solids\n\n * 3 protein shakes\n * Unlimited vegetable soup\n * Choose 2 servings out of these soft solid protein options:\n * ½ cup cottage cheese\n * 6 ounces Greek yogurt: plain or flavored Dannon Oikos Triple Zero\n * ½ cup beans (whole or refried)\n * 2 scrambled or poached eggs\n * 4 ounces tofu\n\nDay 6-10: Long-Term Diet\n\n * 3 protein shakes\n * Can substitute these options for 2 out of the 3 protein shakes:\n * 20 almonds\n * 1 Greek yogurt and up to ¼ cup berries\n * 1 cheese stick and 5 whole-grain crackers\n * 2 eggs (scrambled, poached, or hard-boiled)\n * 2 meals consisting of 4 ounces lean protein (chicken, fish, turkey, pork\n   loin, shellfish, tofu, or beans) 1 Tablespoon olive oil, 2 ounces vegetables\n * Unlimited vegetable soup\n\nStay on Target After Your Gastric Sleeve Pouch Reset\nGastric sleeve surgery requires long-term maintenance. Once the surgery is\nperformed, it cannot be undone. Some things need to be done right to help\nincrease the chances of maintaining long-term weight loss success.\n\nSome of the crucial things to keep in mind are:\n\n * Diet Maintenance: Follow your surgeon’s dietary guidelines for the rest of\n   your life. Picking up old habits is easy and can result in regain.\n * Exercise: It’s important to get at least 30 minutes of exercise 3 to 5 days\n   weekly. The goal is to get moving, which increases your heart rate. This\n   increase in heart rate, in turn, results in burning calories and losing\n   weight.\n * Monitor your Mood: Having a positive attitude all day every day is not always\n   possible. Everyone has days that are more difficult than others. For\n   individuals who have struggled with food addiction, fluctuating moods,\n   especially feelings of depression, can trigger an emotional craving for food.\n * Follow your post-surgical diet: This means choosing a protein first and drink\n   fluids no closer than 30 minutes before or after a meal. Avoid drinking while\n   eating.\n * Weigh your food: Eat only a small amount of food at once. A half-cup or cup\n   of few (4-8 ounces) is plenty. Remember, you are retraining yourself to eat\n   less, just like you did after weight loss surgery.\n * Drink at least 64 ounces of water or other calorie-free fluids each day.\n * Take your nutritional supplements.\n\nThere are some tips to follow that will help you stay on target after doing the\nGastric Sleeve Pouch Reset.Whether you are experiencing your first significant\nstall in weight loss or if you’ve begun to feel the result of poor choices and\nregain, you can take control of your health and get back on track. Before\nstarting a gastric sleeve pouch reset or any other dietary changes, it is\nrecommended that you speak with your surgeon and continue to have close\nfollow-up throughout your weight loss journey.","html":"<p>Have you had, or are you considering having, vertical sleeve gastrectomy? If so, educating yourself before surgery, and throughout the journey, will help improve your long-term post-surgical success. No matter what stage of the process you are in, keep in mind, there are times that you will feel the process is more natural and then times when you think things are more complicated. Everyone who undergoes gastric sleeve surgery feels this way.</p><p>Weight loss is a journey, and no two people experience it the same. Even the most determined people will experience highs and lows following gastric sleeve surgery. Having difficult moments is <strong>not </strong>a sign of failure. The success of any weight loss surgery depends on several factors, including following the advice and guidance of the surgical team, adhering to a post-operative diet and learning how to identify and modify unhealthy eating habits following surgery.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/image1.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Woman holding out her pants to show how big they are.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Weight loss is a journey, and sometimes a fresh start is all you may need to reset your weight loss.</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"is-it-really-all-in-your-head-\">Is It Really “All In Your Head”?</h1><p>The first year following sleeve gastrectomy is known as the “honeymoon” phase. During this time, patients have limited hunger, eat tiny amounts of food, and often struggle with consuming the recommended amount of food daily. As the body adjusts to a smaller stomach size and the incapability of consuming large amounts of food, the weight seems to disappear rather quickly. </p><p>Unfortunately, the honeymoon period does not last permanently. As individuals get closer to the first anniversary of the surgery, it becomes easier to consume larger volumes of food, and the feeling of hunger becomes more pronounced. For this reason, it is crucial to learn to distinguish between head hunger and real physical hunger. Failure to do so, coupled with the ability to eat more food, can result in regain. </p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/image2.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Colorful, abstract painting of a woman's face.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Learning to differentiate between physical hunger and head hunger may feel overwhelming.</em></figcaption></figure><p>Perhaps one of the most frustrating issues to deal with is the fact that changing the size of the stomach does not automatically change the way the mind relates to food. <a href=\"https://www.bariatriccookery.com/coping-head-hunger/\">Head hunger</a>, often referred to as emotional hunger, is the desire a person feels to eat for any reason other than physical hunger. Head hunger is real, and it is a common barrier to weight loss. Nevertheless, despite this hurdle, you can overcome it!</p><p>Learning to identify and modify unhealthy eating habits is one of the most important things a person can do to help improve the chances of success following any bariatric surgery. Talking with your surgeon and care team will help you learn what to expect both pre- and post-surgically. Additionally, close follow-up with your medical team will be of great benefit as the team can help monitor your progression through your weight loss journey.</p><h1 id=\"the-dreaded-question-what-if-i-experience-regain\">The Dreaded Question: What If I Experience Regain?</h1><p>Despite being a great tool to fight obesity, bariatric surgery is not a magic “fix-all”. The post-honeymoon weight regain that many experiences can be attributed to several factors.</p><p>As time progresses, some individuals revert to making poor food choices, similar to those they made before surgery. One of the most common mistakes that bariatric patients make is consuming slider foods.</p><p><a href=\"https://www.obesityhelp.com/articles/what-are-slider-foods-should-i-be-wary-of-them\">Slider foods </a>have little to no nutritional value. As the name suggests, these foods can easily slide through the stomach pouch and into the intestine rapidly. When this happens, carbohydrates will be absorbed quickly and will result in a stall of weight loss and regain of weight. Don’t give up, though! There is still hope.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/image55.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Blue plate with scrabble words spelling out &quot;weight gain&quot;.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>If you have experienced regain following sleeve gastrectomy, don’t give up!</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"gastric-sleeve-pouch-reset-what-is-that\">Gastric Sleeve Pouch Reset: What is That?</h1><p>To experience continued success after gastric sleeve surgery, it is essential to stay focused on the recommended diet and weight loss plan and to continue follow-ups with your physician. If you have experienced a setback and have begun to see some regain following gastric sleeve surgery, a gastric sleeve pouch reset, or VSG pouch reset may be beneficial to help you get back on track. A gastric sleeve pouch reset is a plan that is designed to take an individual through the post-operative diet progression but at a faster pace.</p><p>Following sleeve surgery, a regular bariatric diet typically has up to five stages and may last between 8 and 10 weeks, depending on the surgeon’s recommended guidelines. In contrast, the reset uses similar guidelines but lasts between 5 and 10 days. The reset begins with clear liquids and progresses to full liquids, soft foods, and then solids.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/image33.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Walking sign with button that says, &quot;Push to reset the world&quot;.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>When there is a need to refocus and get back on track with healthy eating habits, a gastric sleeve pouch reset may be helpful</em>.</figcaption></figure><p>It’s important to note that the gastric sleeve pouch reset VSG is not intended to be repeated weekly or even monthly. Instead, it is designed to help reset your body to the immediate post-surgery way of eating. Keep in mind that the VSG pouch reset will not shrink your stomach, cut your cravings for sweets or carbs, reduce hunger, or increase the feeling of fullness. It <em>will</em> help get you back on track with proper food and portion choices. Like the surgery, however, the gastric sleeve pouch reset is a tool.  This fact means it only works if you do!</p><p>There are several variations of the pouch reset VSG. Those variations range from 48 hours, <a href=\"https://www.livestrong.com/article/430673-how-to-complete-five-day-bariatric-diet/\">5 days</a>, and up to <a href=\"https://jetmedicaltourism.com/gastric-sleeve-pouch-reset/\">10 day resets</a>. Below is an example of a 10-day pouch reset after gastric sleeve:</p><p><strong><u>Day 1: Clear Liquids</u></strong></p><ul><li>Water</li><li>Tea</li><li>Broth (chicken, vegetable, beef)</li><li>Sugar-free drinks (crystal light, propel, vitamin zero water, Powerade zero, Mio, etc.)</li><li>Unsweetened tea</li></ul><p><strong><u>Day 2 and 3: Thick Liquids</u></strong></p><ul><li><a href=\"https://bariatricity.com/product-category/protein-shakes/\">Must drink 3 protein shakes</a> and as many servings of this vegetable soup as you want, spaced out every 2-3 hours</li><li>Vegetable soup: Click <a href=\"https://www.favfamilyrecipes.com/weight-loss-magic-soup/\">here</a> for recipe</li><li>64-ounces water or a sugar-free beverage</li></ul><p><strong><u>Day 4 and 5: Soft Solids</u></strong></p><ul><li>3 protein shakes</li><li>Unlimited vegetable soup</li><li>Choose 2 servings out of these soft solid protein options:</li><li>½ cup cottage cheese</li><li>6 ounces Greek yogurt: plain or flavored Dannon Oikos Triple Zero</li><li>½ cup beans (whole or refried)</li><li>2 scrambled or poached eggs</li><li>4 ounces tofu</li></ul><p><strong><u>Day 6-10: Long-Term Diet</u></strong></p><ul><li>3 protein shakes</li><li>Can substitute these options for 2 out of the 3 protein shakes:</li><li>20 almonds</li><li>1 Greek yogurt and up to ¼ cup berries</li><li>1 cheese stick and 5 whole-grain crackers</li><li>2 eggs (scrambled, poached, or hard-boiled)</li><li>2 meals consisting of 4 ounces lean protein (chicken, fish, turkey, pork loin, shellfish, tofu, or beans) 1 Tablespoon olive oil, 2 ounces vegetables</li><li>Unlimited vegetable soup</li></ul><h1 id=\"stay-on-target-after-your-gastric-sleeve-pouch-reset\">Stay on Target After Your Gastric Sleeve Pouch Reset</h1><p>Gastric sleeve surgery requires long-term maintenance. Once the surgery is performed, it cannot be undone. Some things need to be done right to help increase the chances of maintaining long-term weight loss success.</p><p>Some of the crucial things to keep in mind are:</p><ul><li><strong>Diet Maintenance</strong>: Follow your surgeon’s dietary guidelines for the rest of your life. Picking up old habits is easy and can result in regain.</li><li><strong>Exercise: </strong> It’s important to get at least 30 minutes of exercise 3 to 5 days weekly. The goal is to get moving, which increases your heart rate. This increase in heart rate, in turn, results in burning calories and losing weight.</li><li><strong>Monitor your Mood</strong>: Having a positive attitude all day every day is not always possible. Everyone has days that are more difficult than others. For individuals who have struggled with food addiction, fluctuating moods, especially feelings of depression, can trigger an emotional craving for food.</li><li><strong>Follow your post-surgical diet</strong>: This means choosing a protein first and drink fluids no closer than 30 minutes before or after a meal. Avoid drinking while eating.</li><li><strong>Weigh your food</strong>: Eat only a small amount of food at once. A half-cup or cup of few (4-8 ounces) is plenty. Remember, you are retraining yourself to eat less, just like you did after weight loss surgery.</li><li><strong>Drink at least 64 ounces of water or other calorie-free fluids each day.</strong></li><li><strong>Take your nutritional supplements.</strong></li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/image44.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Dart board with a dart in the middle.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>There are some tips to follow that will help you stay on target after doing the Gastric Sleeve Pouch Reset.</em></figcaption></figure><p>Whether you are experiencing your first significant stall in weight loss or if you’ve begun to feel the result of poor choices and regain, you can take control of your health and get back on track. Before starting a gastric sleeve pouch reset or any other dietary changes, it is recommended that you speak with your surgeon and continue to have close follow-up throughout your weight loss journey.</p>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/gastric-sleeve-pouch-reset/","uuid":"2fded2c2-1e86-413e-beae-76c6bfdcc304","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5e20abbe6a73af00447bd61a"}},{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5e20b73b6a73af00447bd699","title":"Dumping Syndrome Gastric Sleeve: What to Know","slug":"dumping-syndrome-gastric-sleeve","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/stomach-3532098_960_720-1.jpg","excerpt":"After any surgery on the stomach, including sleeve gastrectomy surgery, patients are at risk for experiencing dumping syndrome. However, with some good dietary habits, it is possible to prevent dumping syndrome. ","custom_excerpt":"After any surgery on the stomach, including sleeve gastrectomy surgery, patients are at risk for experiencing dumping syndrome. However, with some good dietary habits, it is possible to prevent dumping syndrome. ","created_at_pretty":"16 January, 2020","published_at_pretty":"26 January, 2020","updated_at_pretty":"12 April, 2020","created_at":"2020-01-16T14:19:23.000-05:00","published_at":"2020-01-26T07:00:00.000-05:00","updated_at":"2020-04-12T13:58:44.000-04:00","meta_title":"Dumping Syndrome After Gastric Sleeve Surgery","meta_description":"After any surgery on the stomach, including sleeve gastrectomy surgery, patients are at risk for experiencing dumping syndrome. But there are ways to avoid it.","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Morgyn Clair, MS, RDN","slug":"morgyn","bio":"Morgyn is an RD specializing in weight management and surgical weight loss. She has a master's in clinical nutrition and dietetics, and currently works as a clinical dietitian in a physician’s office.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/10/morgyn.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},{"name":"Gintas Antanavicius, MD, FACS, FASMBS","slug":"gintas","bio":"Dr. G is a co-founder of BariBuilder. A US-based expert surgeon with over 10 years of bariatric experience, he regularly publishes research in medical journals like SOARD, Obesity Surgery, etc.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2018/11/drgheadshot.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Morgyn Clair, MS, RDN","slug":"morgyn","bio":"Morgyn is an RD specializing in weight management and surgical weight loss. She has a master's in clinical nutrition and dietetics, and currently works as a clinical dietitian in a physician’s office.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/10/morgyn.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Dumping","slug":"dumping","description":"Articles about weight loss surgery dumping syndrome","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/bill-oxford-aIlAhLdwk2g-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"One of the concerns many bariatric patients have before bariatric surgery is\ndumping syndrome. After any surgery on the stomach, including sleeve gastrectomy\n[https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-vs-gastric-bypass/] surgery,\npatients are at risk for experiencing dumping syndrome.\n\nHowever, with some good dietary habits, it is possible to prevent dumping\nsyndrome and to avoid experiencing uncomfortable symptoms.\n\nWhat is Dumping Syndrome After Gastric Sleeve?\nDumping syndrome is the general term for a group of uncomfortable symptoms that\npatients may experience after any stomach surgery. It may also be referred to as\n“rapid gastric emptying.” Dumping syndrome after gastric sleeve is relatively \nuncommon occurrence\n[https://asmbs.org/resources/bariatric-surgery-postoperative-concerns]. It is\nmore commonly experienced in patients after gastric bypass surgery. \n\nSymptoms range from mild to severe, and the condition is usually related to poor\nfood choices.\n\nCommon symptoms of dumping syndrome include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and\nrapid heart rate. Dumping syndrome is broken down into two subtypes\n[https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-to-do-for-dumping-syndrome-1945209]: early\ndumping syndrome and late dumping syndrome.\n\n 1. Early Dumping Syndrome: considered “early” when it occurs 15-60 minutes\n    after eating. Symptoms usually include sweating, flushing, lightheadedness,\n    rapid or irregular heart rate, the sensation of abdominal fullness, nausea,\n    and cramping.\n 2. Late Dumping Syndrome: symptoms of “late” dumping syndrome occur 2-3 hours\n    after eating. These symptoms are related to low blood sugar and include\n    sweating, shakiness, reduced ability to concentrate, hunger, and fainting.\n\nHigh sugar foods can cause uncomfortable cramping and blood sugar changes after\ngastric sleeve surgery.Why Does Gastric Sleeve Dumping Syndrome and How Common\nIs It?\nIn healthy digestion (pre-surgery), the stomach empties food into the small\nintestine in a controlled process, mainly due to function of pyloric valve at\nthe end of the stomach. After surgery, the anatomy is changed and pyloric valve\nis either bypassed as in gastric bypass or not functioning properly as in\ngastric sleeve. \n\nAnyone who has had changes to their normal anatomy is at risk\n[https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=134&ContentID=107] \nfor this side effect.\n\nChanges to the GI tract can alter the normal digestive process, possibly causing\ndumping syndrome gastric sleeve.Avoiding Dumping Syndrome Gastric Sleeve\nSymptoms\nThe first line of treatment for dumping syndrome is often dietary changes.\nChanges in dietary patterns and food choices can help prevent or relieve\nsymptoms.\n\n * Small portions and meals that include carbohydrates, fats, and protein\n * High fiber foods may slow absorption of sugar into the bloodstream\n * Separate eating drinking by at least 30 minutes\n * Avoid concentrated sweets such as cookies, candy, cake, and desserts\n * Avoid or limit alcohol\n\nPlanning meals ahead of time can help avoid making poor nutrition choices.\nEating consistently throughout the day can also help patients prevent drastic\nchanges in blood sugar levels.\n\nIf symptoms continue even after making dietary changes, it’s important to speak\nwith your doctor. While dietary changes may relieve dumping syndrome symptoms, \nmedication [https://renewbariatrics.com/dumping-syndrome/] may also be\nnecessary.\n\nCombining sources of sugar with protein can help combat dumping syndrome. For\nexample, try fruit with yogurt and nuts.Summary\nDumping syndrome is an uncomfortable and unpleasant set of symptoms that are\npossible after any surgery involving the GI tract. However, patients who have\nundergone gastric sleeve surgery are less likely to develop\n[https://www.pharmacytimes.com/publications/issue/2014/July2014/Complications-of-Bariatric-Surgery-Dumping-Syndrome-and-Drug-Disposition] \ndumping syndrome than gastric bypass patients.\n\nSymptoms of dumping can be split into categories: early and late dumping\nsyndrome. Early gastric sleeve dumping syndrome is caused by the rapid emptying\nof sugary or highly concentrated carbohydrates into the small intestine. Rapid\nfluctuations in blood sugar cause late gastric sleeve dumping syndrome.\nIngestion of sugars can cause blood sugar to spike and then rapidly decrease.\n\nDumping syndrome after gastric sleeve is a possible side effect of surgery.\nHowever, there are ways to prevent and treat symptoms. Working with your\ndietitian and physician can potentially eliminate symptoms.\n\nMost would agree that the benefits of bariatric or metabolic\n[https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-bypass-complications/] surgery greatly\noutweigh the risks. Long term weight maintenance and enhanced quality of life\nare a few of the benefits most patients experience after surgery.\n\nBariatric surgery benefits include a better quality of life and improved overall\nhealth.1. https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-vs-gastric-bypass/\n\n2. https://asmbs.org/resources/bariatric-surgery-postoperative-concerns\n\n3. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-to-do-for-dumping-syndrome-1945209\n\n4. \nhttps://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=134&ContentID=107\n[https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=134&ContentID=107]\n\n5. https://renewbariatrics.com/dumping-syndrome/\n\n6. \nhttps://www.pharmacytimes.com/publications/issue/2014/July2014/Complications-of-Bariatric-Surgery-Dumping-Syndrome-and-Drug-Disposition\n\n7. https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-bypass-complications/","html":"<p>One of the concerns many bariatric patients have before bariatric surgery is dumping syndrome. After any surgery on the stomach, including <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-vs-gastric-bypass/\">sleeve gastrectomy</a> surgery, patients are at risk for experiencing dumping syndrome.</p><p>However, with some good dietary habits, it is possible to prevent dumping syndrome and to avoid experiencing uncomfortable symptoms.</p><h1 id=\"what-is-dumping-syndrome-after-gastric-sleeve\">What is Dumping Syndrome After Gastric Sleeve?</h1><p>Dumping syndrome is the general term for a group of uncomfortable symptoms that patients may experience after any stomach surgery. It may also be referred to as “rapid gastric emptying.” Dumping syndrome after gastric sleeve is relatively <a href=\"https://asmbs.org/resources/bariatric-surgery-postoperative-concerns\">uncommon occurrence</a>. It is more commonly experienced in patients after gastric bypass surgery. </p><p>Symptoms range from mild to severe, and the condition is usually related to poor food choices.</p><p>Common symptoms of dumping syndrome include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rapid heart rate. Dumping syndrome is broken down into <a href=\"https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-to-do-for-dumping-syndrome-1945209\">two subtypes</a>: early dumping syndrome and late dumping syndrome.</p><ol><li><strong>Early Dumping Syndrome:</strong> considered “early” when it occurs 15-60 minutes after eating. Symptoms usually include sweating, flushing, lightheadedness, rapid or irregular heart rate, the sensation of abdominal fullness, nausea, and cramping.</li><li><strong>Late Dumping Syndrome:</strong> symptoms of “late” dumping syndrome occur 2-3 hours after eating. These symptoms are related to low blood sugar and include sweating, shakiness, reduced ability to concentrate, hunger, and fainting.</li></ol><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/stomach-3532098_960_720.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Man holding his stomach in pain.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>High sugar foods can cause uncomfortable cramping and blood sugar changes after gastric sleeve surgery.</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"why-does-gastric-sleeve-dumping-syndrome-and-how-common-is-it\">Why Does Gastric Sleeve Dumping Syndrome and How Common Is It?</h1><p>In healthy digestion (pre-surgery), the stomach empties food into the small intestine in a controlled process, mainly due to function of pyloric valve at the end of the stomach. After surgery, the anatomy is changed and pyloric valve is either bypassed as in gastric bypass or not functioning properly as in gastric sleeve. </p><p>Anyone who has had changes to their normal anatomy is <a href=\"https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=134&amp;ContentID=107\">at risk</a> for this side effect.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/offal-1463369_960_720.png\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Illustration of the digestive system.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Changes to the GI tract can alter the normal digestive process, possibly causing dumping syndrome gastric sleeve.</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"avoiding-dumping-syndrome-gastric-sleeve-symptoms\">Avoiding Dumping Syndrome Gastric Sleeve Symptoms</h1><p>The first line of treatment for dumping syndrome is often dietary changes. Changes in dietary patterns and food choices can help prevent or relieve symptoms.</p><ul><li>Small portions and meals that include carbohydrates, fats, and protein</li><li>High fiber foods may slow absorption of sugar into the bloodstream</li><li>Separate eating drinking by at least 30 minutes</li><li>Avoid concentrated sweets such as cookies, candy, cake, and desserts</li><li>Avoid or limit alcohol</li></ul><p>Planning meals ahead of time can help avoid making poor nutrition choices. Eating consistently throughout the day can also help patients prevent drastic changes in blood sugar levels.</p><p>If symptoms continue even after making dietary changes, it’s important to speak with your doctor. While dietary changes may relieve dumping syndrome symptoms, <a href=\"https://renewbariatrics.com/dumping-syndrome/\">medication</a> may also be necessary.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/muesli-564762_960_720.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Yogurt parfait with fruit.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Combining sources of sugar with protein can help combat dumping syndrome. For example, try fruit with yogurt and nuts.</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"summary\">Summary</h1><p>Dumping syndrome is an uncomfortable and unpleasant set of symptoms that are possible after any surgery involving the GI tract. However, patients who have undergone gastric sleeve surgery are <a href=\"https://www.pharmacytimes.com/publications/issue/2014/July2014/Complications-of-Bariatric-Surgery-Dumping-Syndrome-and-Drug-Disposition\">less likely to develop</a> dumping syndrome than gastric bypass patients.</p><p>Symptoms of dumping can be split into categories: early and late dumping syndrome. Early gastric sleeve dumping syndrome is caused by the rapid emptying of sugary or highly concentrated carbohydrates into the small intestine. Rapid fluctuations in blood sugar cause late gastric sleeve dumping syndrome. Ingestion of sugars can cause blood sugar to spike and then rapidly decrease.</p><p>Dumping syndrome after gastric sleeve is a possible side effect of surgery. However, there are ways to prevent and treat symptoms. Working with your dietitian and physician can potentially eliminate symptoms.</p><p>Most would agree that the <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-bypass-complications/\">benefits of bariatric or metabolic</a> surgery greatly outweigh the risks. Long term weight maintenance and enhanced quality of life are a few of the benefits most patients experience after surgery.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/remove-4559326_960_720.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Woman with a tape measure around her waist.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Bariatric surgery benefits include a better quality of life and improved overall health.</figcaption></figure><p>1. <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-vs-gastric-bypass/\">https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-vs-gastric-bypass/</a></p><p>2. <a href=\"https://asmbs.org/resources/bariatric-surgery-postoperative-concerns\">https://asmbs.org/resources/bariatric-surgery-postoperative-concerns</a></p><p>3. <a href=\"https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-to-do-for-dumping-syndrome-1945209\">https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-to-do-for-dumping-syndrome-1945209</a></p><p>4. <a href=\"https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=134&amp;ContentID=107\">https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=134&amp;ContentID=107</a></p><p>5. <a href=\"https://renewbariatrics.com/dumping-syndrome/\">https://renewbariatrics.com/dumping-syndrome/</a></p><p>6. <a href=\"https://www.pharmacytimes.com/publications/issue/2014/July2014/Complications-of-Bariatric-Surgery-Dumping-Syndrome-and-Drug-Disposition\">https://www.pharmacytimes.com/publications/issue/2014/July2014/Complications-of-Bariatric-Surgery-Dumping-Syndrome-and-Drug-Disposition</a></p><p>7. <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-bypass-complications/\">https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-bypass-complications/</a></p>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/dumping-syndrome-gastric-sleeve/","uuid":"98b08c1c-73a2-485d-a8a1-8bd10964593b","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5e20b73b6a73af00447bd699"}},{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5e1a86e20b127c00386d6fec","title":"Gastric Sleeve and Excess Skin:  How to Manage the Effects of Major Weight Loss","slug":"gastric-sleeve-and-excess-skin","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/photo-1559064368-6f6d5ef84110.jpg","excerpt":"Gastric sleeve is a major weight loss surgery resulting with many patients having a large amount of loose skin, which may negatively affect their appearance and quality of life.","custom_excerpt":"Gastric sleeve is a major weight loss surgery resulting with many patients having a large amount of loose skin, which may negatively affect their appearance and quality of life.","created_at_pretty":"12 January, 2020","published_at_pretty":"19 January, 2020","updated_at_pretty":"01 March, 2020","created_at":"2020-01-11T21:39:30.000-05:00","published_at":"2020-01-19T08:00:00.000-05:00","updated_at":"2020-03-01T01:20:08.000-05:00","meta_title":"Gastric Sleeve and Excess Skin: Managing Major Weight Loss","meta_description":"Gastric sleeve is a major weight loss surgery resulting with many patients having a large amount of loose skin.","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Kelsey Renae Schulze","slug":"kelsey","bio":"Kelsey is a post-op bariatric patient who had sleeve surgery in 2018. She is a writer, focusing on a variety of topics given her background in legal studies and criminal justice.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/kelsey-headshot.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Kelsey Renae Schulze","slug":"kelsey","bio":"Kelsey is a post-op bariatric patient who had sleeve surgery in 2018. She is a writer, focusing on a variety of topics given her background in legal studies and criminal justice.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/kelsey-headshot.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Excess Skin","slug":"excess-skin","description":"Articles about excess skin after weight loss surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/shane-cDKQsaUoF-0-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"Gastric sleeve is a major weight loss surgery resulting with many patients\nhaving a large amount of loose skin, which may negatively affect their\nappearance and quality of life.  The sagging skin is a result of rapid weight\nloss.  Most gastric sleeve patients lose over 100 pounds that leads to excess or\nloose skin (Long, 2020).\n\nThe skin cannot revert back because the collagen and elastin fibers are damaged \ndue to the large amount of weight gain most overweight or obese patients have\naccumulated\n[https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/loose-skin-after-weight-loss#section1].\n\nLoose skin affects everyone differently.  Excess skin contributes to many\nphysical and emotional challenges for weight loss surgery patients.  Common\nchallenges are:\n\n * Physical discomfort\n * Decreased Physical Activity\n * Skin irritation\n * Poor Body Image\n\nFactors contributing to excess skin from weight loss surgery are:\n\n * Age\n * Genetics\n * Smoking\n * Length of time spent Overweight\n * Amount of Weight Loss\n * Chronic sun exposure \n\nOverall, the more weight loss a person has, the higher amount of excess skin the\npatient is likely to have. Common problems with excessive skin are chafing,\nwhich can lead to infections.  The usual areas affected are:\n\n * Thighs\n * Groin\n * Underarms\n * Stomach\n * Any place with extra skin\n\nBicep curls tone and aid in lessening excess skin.Ways to combat excess skin naturally\n[https://renewbariatrics.com/gastric-sleeve-excess-skin/]: \n\n * Patience allows the body time to heal and stabilize.  With proper care and\n   maintenance skin will tighten on its own up to a point.\n * Massage Therapy allows the skin to tighten due to increased blood flow and\n   circulation.\n * A Sea Salt Scrub improves blood flow circulation and tightens the skin over\n   time.\n\nAbdominal crunches aid in tightening stomach muscles and skin.According to\nHealthline, exercise and weight training are excellent options to improve skin\nelasticity.  Exercise can severely minimize and reduce the appearance of excess\nskin.  Building muscle mass decreases the appearance of loose skin from weight\nloss.\n\nExcessive fat prevents the skin from shrinking with rapid weight loss.\n Replacing the fat loss with muscle helps burn more calories and improves the\nappearance of loose skin.\n\nWeight training helps in tightening skin after weight loss:\n\n * Biceps curls tone the muscle around the bicep area to prevent the underarm\n   hang.\n * Planks are efficient in strengthening and toning abdominal muscles.\n * Squats tighten loose skin on the lower body by strengthening the thighs and\n   glutes.\n\nMuscle building exercises lessen the impact of excess skin.Other potential\nalternative ways to tighten loose excessive skin is through the use of firming\nproducts [https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-tighten-loose-skin#takeaway.]\n.  Firming creams improving the appearance of loose skin for small to moderate\nweight loss patients.  Firming creams provide a temporary boost in tightening\nloose skin.\n\nSupplements and nutrients that lessen excess skin:\n\n * Collagen supplements may help improve and prevent loose skin.\n * Vitamin C supplements allow the body to synthesize collagen and would lessen\n   excess skin.\n * Gelatin is an excellent source for building collagen and improve skin\n   elasticity.\n * Water greatly improves skin elasticity and appearance of loose skin. \n\nWater helps reverse the skin losing process.Continual exercise and monitoring of\nfood consumption is key for long term success after gastric sleeve surgery, but\nloose skin may still fail in fully retracting back due to the large amount of\nweight lost.\n\nCommon medical treatment recommended in removing loose skin is a surgical\nintervention.  Body contouring surgery is used after a significant amount of\nweight is lost to remove the excess skin.\n\nWith body contouring surgery, a large incision is made and excess skin and fat\nare removed.  The incision is sutured with fine stitches to minimize scarring\n[https://www.today.com/health/how-painful-skin-removal-surgery-after-extreme-weight-loss-t161209]\n.\n\nRecovery from body contouring surgery is often more painful than bariatric\nsurgery.Body contouring is the most common and effective procedure to remove\nloose skin. Many body contouring surgeries are usually performed on different\nbody parts over the span of one to two years after major weight loss.  There is\na hospital stay of one to four days and a recovery time of typically two to four\nweeks.\n\nCommon body contouring surgeries are: \n\n * Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck.  This is the removal of skin from the abdomen.\n * Lower-body lift is the removal of skin from the belly, buttocks, hips and\n   thighs.\n * Upper-body lift is the removal of skin from the inner and outer thighs.\n * Brachioplasty or the arm lift.  This is the removal of skin from the upper\n   arms.\n\nComplications can arise from body contouring surgery, such as internal bleeding\nand infections, which may lead to longer hospital recovery time.\n\nFinancial complications may also arise due to the high cost of the cosmetic\nsurgery and generally lack of insurance coverage.Insurance normally doesn’t\ncover skin removal or contouring\n[https://www.today.com/health/how-painful-skin-removal-surgery-after-extreme-weight-loss-t161209]\n.  The procedure insurance occasionally pays for is a panniculectomy, when\ndoctors remove a fold of skin that hangs over the patients pubic area. This\nprocedure may fix some problems, but patients often dislike how they appear\nbecause there is no body contouring.\n\nPlastic surgeons try to obtain documentation of patient problems to submit to\ninsurance for partial coverage, but insurance companies have very specific\ncriteria in considering surgery including:\n\n * Lowest possible set weight achieved\n * Consult 3-6 months after a plateau\n * Diabetes and High Blood Pressure controlled\n * Overall stable and consistent health\n\nThe main takeaway from phenomenon of loose skin resulting from weight loss\nsurgery is the evolution of the mindset and approach to eating healthy and\nregular fitness.  Along with a desire to be healthy and strong.  Weight loss\nsurgery allows for permanent changes in exchange for regaining back one’s\nhealth.  Some may call it “cheating,” or an “easy way out,” but this road to\nhealth and wellness is difficult and challenging.  Patients are faced with\nobstacles daily and constantly reminded of their choices.  This process of\nawareness and learning continues for the rest of the patient’s life.  There is\nno shame in having weight loss surgery or its consequence of sagging skin.\n\nHow one chooses to tackle their loose skin is their prerogative.  As someone who\nhad the gastric sleeve surgery, maintaining a consistent exercise and nutrition\nroutine is essential.  I also have had conversations with my bariatric doctors\nand nurses regarding my loose and sagging skin.  There is only so much exercise\nand firming creams I can use before there is only one option remaining.\n\nBody contouring surgery is something I am currently considering to remove my\nloose skin.  I was aware of the possibility my skin would only be able to\nretract only to a specific point.  I currently do not possess the appearance of\na “melted candle,” but reaching a point of complete satisfaction with my\nappearance is a continuous journey I endure daily.\n\nAt my first bariatric doctor appointment I was told the success of my weight\nloss journey was based off one thing, “I am giving you a tool.  It’s a tool that\ncan help you lose and keep the weight off, but it’s only a tool to help you.\n You still have to do the work.”  Hearing this statement allowed me to face the\ntruth of my own my choices.  Understanding that the process of weight loss is a\ncontinual journey, loose skin and all.","html":"<p>Gastric sleeve is a major weight loss surgery resulting with many patients having a large amount of loose skin, which may negatively affect their appearance and quality of life.  The sagging skin is a result of rapid weight loss.  Most gastric sleeve patients lose over 100 pounds that leads to excess or loose skin (Long, 2020).  </p><p>The skin cannot revert back because the collagen and elastin fibers are damaged <a href=\"https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/loose-skin-after-weight-loss#section1\">due to the large amount of weight gain most overweight or obese patients have accumulated</a>.  </p><p>Loose skin affects everyone differently.  Excess skin contributes to many physical and emotional challenges for weight loss surgery patients.  Common challenges are:</p><ul><li>Physical discomfort</li><li>Decreased Physical Activity</li><li>Skin irritation</li><li>Poor Body Image</li></ul><p>Factors contributing to excess skin from weight loss surgery are:  </p><ul><li>Age</li><li>Genetics</li><li>Smoking</li><li>Length of time spent Overweight</li><li>Amount of Weight Loss</li><li>Chronic sun exposure </li></ul><p>Overall, the more weight loss a person has, the higher amount of excess skin the patient is likely to have. Common problems with excessive skin are chafing, which can lead to infections.  The usual areas affected are:</p><ul><li>Thighs</li><li>Groin</li><li>Underarms</li><li>Stomach</li><li>Any place with extra skin</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/photo-1557330359-ffb0deed6163.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Shoes and dumbells.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Bicep curls tone and aid in lessening excess skin.</figcaption></figure><p>Ways to <a href=\"https://renewbariatrics.com/gastric-sleeve-excess-skin/\">combat excess skin naturally</a>: </p><ul><li>Patience allows the body time to heal and stabilize.  With proper care and maintenance skin will tighten on its own up to a point.</li><li>Massage Therapy allows the skin to tighten due to increased blood flow and circulation.</li><li>A Sea Salt Scrub improves blood flow circulation and tightens the skin over time.  </li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/photo-1571019613454-1cb2f99b2d8b.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Woman doing crunches.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Abdominal crunches aid in tightening stomach muscles and skin.</figcaption></figure><p>According to Healthline, exercise and weight training are excellent options to improve skin elasticity.  Exercise can severely minimize and reduce the appearance of excess skin.  Building muscle mass decreases the appearance of loose skin from weight loss.  </p><p>Excessive fat prevents the skin from shrinking with rapid weight loss.  Replacing the fat loss with muscle helps burn more calories and improves the appearance of loose skin.  </p><p>Weight training helps in tightening skin after weight loss:</p><ul><li>Biceps curls tone the muscle around the bicep area to prevent the underarm hang.</li><li>Planks are efficient in strengthening and toning abdominal muscles.</li><li>Squats tighten loose skin on the lower body by strengthening the thighs and glutes.  </li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/photo-1518310383802-640c2de311b2.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Group of people working out.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Muscle building exercises lessen the impact of excess skin.</figcaption></figure><p>Other potential alternative ways to tighten loose excessive skin is through <a href=\"https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-tighten-loose-skin#takeaway.\">the use of firming products</a>.  Firming creams improving the appearance of loose skin for small to moderate weight loss patients.  Firming creams provide a temporary boost in tightening loose skin.</p><p>Supplements and nutrients that lessen excess skin:  </p><ul><li>Collagen supplements may help improve and prevent loose skin.</li><li>Vitamin C supplements allow the body to synthesize collagen and would lessen excess skin.</li><li>Gelatin is an excellent source for building collagen and improve skin elasticity.</li><li>Water greatly improves skin elasticity and appearance of loose skin.   </li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/photo-1561041695-d2fadf9f318c.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Water being poured.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Water helps reverse the skin losing process.</figcaption></figure><p>Continual exercise and monitoring of food consumption is key for long term success after gastric sleeve surgery, but loose skin may still fail in fully retracting back due to the large amount of weight lost.  </p><p>Common medical treatment recommended in removing loose skin is a surgical intervention.  Body contouring surgery is used after a significant amount of weight is lost to remove the excess skin.  </p><p>With body contouring surgery, a large incision is made and excess skin and fat are removed.  The incision is sutured with fine stitches <a href=\"https://www.today.com/health/how-painful-skin-removal-surgery-after-extreme-weight-loss-t161209\">to minimize scarring</a>.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/photo-1551190822-a9333d879b1f.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Surgeon at work.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Recovery from body contouring surgery is often more painful than bariatric surgery.</figcaption></figure><p>Body contouring is the most common and effective procedure to remove loose skin. Many body contouring surgeries are usually performed on different body parts over the span of one to two years after major weight loss.  There is a hospital stay of one to four days and a recovery time of typically two to four weeks.</p><p>Common body contouring surgeries are: </p><ul><li>Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck.  This is the removal of skin from the abdomen.</li><li>Lower-body lift is the removal of skin from the belly, buttocks, hips and thighs.</li><li>Upper-body lift is the removal of skin from the inner and outer thighs.</li><li>Brachioplasty or the arm lift.  This is the removal of skin from the upper arms.  </li></ul><p>Complications can arise from body contouring surgery, such as internal bleeding and infections, which may lead to longer hospital recovery time.  </p><p>Financial complications may also arise due to the high cost of the cosmetic surgery and generally lack of insurance coverage.  <a href=\"https://www.today.com/health/how-painful-skin-removal-surgery-after-extreme-weight-loss-t161209\">Insurance normally doesn’t cover skin removal or contouring</a>.  The procedure insurance occasionally pays for is a panniculectomy, when doctors remove a fold of skin that hangs over the patients pubic area. This procedure may fix some problems, but patients often dislike how they appear because there is no body contouring.</p><p>Plastic surgeons try to obtain documentation of patient problems to submit to insurance for partial coverage, but insurance companies have very specific criteria in considering surgery including:</p><ul><li>Lowest possible set weight achieved</li><li>Consult 3-6 months after a plateau</li><li>Diabetes and High Blood Pressure controlled</li><li>Overall stable and consistent health</li></ul><p>The main takeaway from phenomenon of loose skin resulting from weight loss surgery is the evolution of the mindset and approach to eating healthy and regular fitness.  Along with a desire to be healthy and strong.  Weight loss surgery allows for permanent changes in exchange for regaining back one’s health.  Some may call it “cheating,” or an “easy way out,” but this road to health and wellness is difficult and challenging.  Patients are faced with obstacles daily and constantly reminded of their choices.  This process of awareness and learning continues for the rest of the patient’s life.  There is no shame in having weight loss surgery or its consequence of sagging skin.  </p><p>How one chooses to tackle their loose skin is their prerogative.  As someone who had the gastric sleeve surgery, maintaining a consistent exercise and nutrition routine is essential.  I also have had conversations with my bariatric doctors and nurses regarding my loose and sagging skin.  There is only so much exercise and firming creams I can use before there is only one option remaining.</p><p>Body contouring surgery is something I am currently considering to remove my loose skin.  I was aware of the possibility my skin would only be able to retract only to a specific point.  I currently do not possess the appearance of a “melted candle,” but reaching a point of complete satisfaction with my appearance is a continuous journey I endure daily.  </p><p>At my first bariatric doctor appointment I was told the success of my weight loss journey was based off one thing, “I am giving you a tool.  It’s a tool that can help you lose and keep the weight off, but it’s only a tool to help you.  You still have to do the work.”  Hearing this statement allowed me to face the truth of my own my choices.  Understanding that the process of weight loss is a continual journey, loose skin and all.  </p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/gastric-sleeve-and-excess-skin/","uuid":"97002678-f0ce-43d3-aec8-ad0c974d7c41","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5e1a86e20b127c00386d6fec"}},{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5e0f50e00b127c00386d6d5d","title":"Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass for Gastroparesis","slug":"gastric-bypass-for-gastroparesis","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/allgo-an-app-for-plus-size-people-Qbtuh8XOP3k-unsplash.jpg","excerpt":"Gastric sleeve and gastric bypass for gastroparesis are effective treatment options in severely overweight people. Gastroparesis, or delayed stomach emptying, is a condition caused by partial paralysis of the stomach. This condition affects 50 out of 100,000 people. ","custom_excerpt":"Gastric sleeve and gastric bypass for gastroparesis are effective treatment options in severely overweight people. Gastroparesis, or delayed stomach emptying, is a condition caused by partial paralysis of the stomach. This condition affects 50 out of 100,000 people. ","created_at_pretty":"03 January, 2020","published_at_pretty":"12 January, 2020","updated_at_pretty":"12 April, 2020","created_at":"2020-01-03T09:34:08.000-05:00","published_at":"2020-01-12T08:00:00.000-05:00","updated_at":"2020-04-12T14:08:33.000-04:00","meta_title":"Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass for Gastroparesis","meta_description":"Gastric bypass is an effective treatment option for overweight people who have gastroparesis. Gastroparesis is caused by partial paralysis of the stomach. ","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Julia Rae Walker, RN, BSN, BA","slug":"julia","bio":"Julia is an experienced critical care nurse with a background in pediatric and adult patient populations. Her passion is helping patients maximize their quality of life.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/09/IMG_4714.jpeg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},{"name":"Gintas Antanavicius, MD, FACS, FASMBS","slug":"gintas","bio":"Dr. G is a co-founder of BariBuilder. A US-based expert surgeon with over 10 years of bariatric experience, he regularly publishes research in medical journals like SOARD, Obesity Surgery, etc.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2018/11/drgheadshot.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Julia Rae Walker, RN, BSN, BA","slug":"julia","bio":"Julia is an experienced critical care nurse with a background in pediatric and adult patient populations. Her passion is helping patients maximize their quality of life.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/09/IMG_4714.jpeg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Gastric Bypass","slug":"gastric-bypass","description":"Articles about gastric bypass surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/national-cancer-institute-KrsoedfRAf4-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Gastroparesis","slug":"gastroparesis","description":"Articles about gastroparesis and weight loss surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/abdominal-pain-2821941_1920.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"Gastric sleeve and gastric bypass\n[https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-vs-gastric-bypass/] surgery for\ngastroparesis are effective treatment options in severely overweight people. \nGastroparesis\n[https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gastroparesis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355787]\n, or delayed stomach emptying, is a condition caused by partial paralysis of the\nstomach. This condition affects 50 out of 100,000\n[https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gastroparesis/definition-facts] \npeople. Gastroparesis symptoms are debilitating and can lead t severe\ncomplications if left untreated. Although getting diagnosed with gastroparesis\nis relatively rare, 1 out of 4\n[https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gastroparesis/definition-facts] \npeople will experience symptoms similar to gastroparesis.\n\nWhat Is Gastroparesis?\nGastroparesis is a disorder of the digestive tract where there is little to no\nmovement of food from the stomach to the small intestine. When the\ngastrointestinal tract is regularly working, muscles move food throughout your\ndigestive system. Firstly, food is transferred from your mouth to your esophagus\nby swallowing. Muscle movement in your esophagus propels food into your stomach,\nwhere muscles churn and grind food into small, more absorbable pieces. Food then\nmoves from the stomach throughout the small and large intestines.\n\nGastroparesis slows digestion and can lead to nutrient deficiencies.In\ngastroparesis, the stomach muscles do not work correctly. Frequently, nerve\ndamage in the stomach causes muscles not to work correctly. Therefore, food does\nnot get broken down, and the stomach takes too long to empty, which delays\ndigestion. The slowing of stomach digestion can lead to various unpleasant\nsymptoms and complications. Gastric bypass or gastric sleeve surgery can help\neliminate the struggles of this condition and help the individual improve their\nquality of life. \n\nWhat Causes Gastroparesis?\nThe number one cause of gastroparesis is diabetes. Type 2 Diabetes\n[https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-bypass-and-diabetes/] causes nerve damage\nin the stomach over time, which can lead to dysfunction in the stomach muscles\nand even paralysis. Gastroparesis can also be idiopathic, meaning that there is\nno clear cause or reason as to why a person may have gastroparesis.\n\nCertain factors put some individuals at greater risk for gastroparesis. Risk\nfactors include:\n\n * Diabetes\n * Obesity\n * Abdominal or esophageal surgery\n * Damage to the vagus nerve\n * Viral infection\n * Medications that slow gastric emptying such as narcotics\n * Scleroderma\n   [https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scleroderma/symptoms-causes/syc-20351952]\n * Hypothyroidism\n   [https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypothyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20350284]\n * Diseases of the nervous system such as Parkinson’s disease\n * Radiation therapy for cancers in the chest and abdomen\n\nFurthermore, women are four more times likely than men to develop gastroparesis. \nStudies [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3936776/] have suggested\nthat women with Type 2 diabetes are more likely to have gastroparesis because\nthey have a greater Body Mass Index\n[https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/index.html] (BMI) and a higher \nHemoglobin A1c\n[https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/a1c-test/about/pac-20384643] \ncompared to men with Type 2 diabetes.\n\nWomen are four more times likely than men to be diagnosed with gastroparesis.\nWhat Are the Symptoms of Gastroparesis?\nSome people do not have symptoms even though they have gastroparesis. However,\nmany people with this condition experience some, or all, of the following\nsymptoms:\n\n * Nausea\n * Vomiting (People may vomit undigested food ingested a few hours earlier)\n * Abdominal cramping and pain\n * Feeling full after only a few bites of a meal\n * Acid reflux\n * Bloating\n * Changes in blood sugar\n * Lack of appetite\n * Malnutrition\n * Unintended weight loss\n\nWhat Are Complications of Gastroparesis?\nComplications of gastroparesis may be mild to severe. Some complications may be\nlife-threatening. Gastroparesis complications include:\n\n * Dehydration due to repeated vomiting\n * Malnutrition\n * Low-calorie intake\n * Unstable blood sugar\n * Unintended weight loss\n * Bezoars\n   [https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gastroparesis/expert-answers/bezoars/faq-20058050]\n * Lower quality of life\n\nHow To Diagnose Gastroparesis\nThere are several tests your doctor may perform if you are concerned that you\nhave gastroparesis.\n\n * Gastric Emptying Study - This test is an essential tool in diagnosing\n   gastroparesis. In this test, you will eat a light meal that contains a small\n   amount of radioactive material. This radioactive material helps a scanner\n   detect food moving throughout your digestive system. While you digest, a\n   scanner is placed over your abdomen to monitor how long it takes for food to\n   leave your stomach.\n * Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy - Sometimes called an Upper GI, this\n   procedure is performed by a gastroenterologist\n   [https://gi.org/patients/gi-health-and-disease/what-is-a-gastroenterologist/] \n   who uses a thin scope with a tiny camera on the tip to look down your\n   esophagus, stomach, and into the first part of your small intestine. Your\n   doctor can diagnose a variety of GI conditions, including peptic ulcer\n   disease and pyloric stenosis with endoscopy.\n * Ultrasound - Your doctor will be able to look at your digestive organs using\n   high-frequency sound waves to produce images on a screen.\n * Barium Swallow Study - Your doctor may order a series of x-rays to be taken\n   while you digest barium, which is a white, chalk-like liquid that coats your\n   digestive system. Barium can be picked up by an x-ray and can identify\n   anything that may be abnormal.\n\nGastroparesis is usually caused by damage to nerves in the stomach.What\nTreatment Options Are Available For Gastroparesis?\nIf you have been diagnosed with gastroparesis, several treatment options may be\navailable to you. Firstly, if you have diabetes, you will want to work with your\ndoctor to control your blood sugar and treat your diabetes. Managing your\ndiabetes can help alleviate symptoms associated with gastroparesis. Dietary\nchanges can also help treat gastroparesis. Maintaining proper nutrition is an\nimportant goal for people with gastroparesis. Your doctor may recommend you work\nwith a dietician to ensure you get enough calories and nutrients. You may need\nto add supplements\n[https://baribuilder.com/blog/wls-patients-need-personalized-bariatric-vitamin-regimens/] \nto your diet to ensure you are getting essential nutrients. Furthermore, your\ndoctor may prescribe medication that aims to either stimulate the stomach\nmuscles or reduce unpleasant symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.\n\nSurgical treatment may be recommended by your doctor when the above treatments\nare not successful in controlling symptoms. Surgical options include:\n\n * Gastric Pacemaker - Similar to a pacemaker in the heart, a gastric pacemaker\n   sends electrical signals to the stomach muscles to restore the normal\n   functioning of muscles.\n * Gastric Sleeve for Gastroparesis - A surgeon may perform gastric sleeve for\n   gastroparesis to remove stomach tissue that is not functioning. Gastric\n   sleeve for gastroparesis may reduce nausea and vomiting, which are very\n   uncomfortable symptoms of gastroparesis.\n * Gastric Bypass for Gastroparesis - A surgeon may recommend gastric bypass\n   surgery for gastroparesis if there is damaged stomach tissue. Gastric bypass\n   for gastroparesis is an effective treatment option for people who are\n   overweight and suffering from gastroparesis.\n\nYour doctor may recommend surgery if other forms of treatment have failed.\nGastric Bypass for Gastroparesis As A Treatment Option\nTraditionally, gastric bypass surgery is a procedure that aims to treat morbid\nobesity and diseases related to obesity. Studies\n[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25012775] have identified that gastric\nbypass surgery may also improve gastroparesis in overweight patients. Indeed,\none study [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25012775] found that people who\nwere taking medication to help with gastroparesis were able to stop the\nmedication after gastric bypass surgery.\n\nGastric bypass surgery is a bariatric procedure where a surgeon modifies the\nanatomy of the digestive tract to help with weight loss in severely overweight\npeople. Gastric bypass surgery also called a Roux-en-Y\n[https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/rouxeny-gastric-bypass-weightloss-surgery] \nprocedure, is a two-part procedure. Firstly, the surgeon cuts the stomach into a\nsmaller pouch that limits how much food a person can eat at one time. Secondly,\npart of the stomach and small intestine are bypassed to limit nutrient\nabsorption.\n\nAlthough studies are limited that address gastric bypass for gastroparesis,\ngastric bypass is a safe operation with a low risk of complications. However, as\nwith any surgical procedure, there are complications\n[https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-bypass-complications/] with gastric bypass\nsurgery. Complications from surgery should be weighed against the long term\ncomplications of living with gastroparesis and severe obesity. Furthermore,\ngastric bypass surgery can help treat Type 2 diabetes [http://www.apple.com],\nwhich is one of the leading causes of gastroparesis. Indeed, 30%\n[https://www.sages.org/video/laparoscopic-gastric-bypass-for-gastroparesis-indications-technical-considerations-outcomes/] \nof gastroparesis cases are due to diabetes.\n\nIs Gastric Bypass For Gastroparesis For Me?\nIf you qualify for bariatric surgery and have gastroparesis, gastric bypass\nsurgery may be an option for you. However, you and your doctor will want to work\ntogether to try different treatment options before going through surgery. These\ntreatment options may include controlling your diabetes, managing your symptoms,\nmedication, undergoing a nutritional assessment, increasing physical activity,\nand dietary modification. It is important to note that each person has different\nexperiences and results with surgery. Talk with your doctor about what is best\nfor you in treating your gastroparesis.","html":"<p><a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-vs-gastric-bypass/\">Gastric sleeve and gastric bypass</a> surgery for gastroparesis are effective treatment options in severely overweight people. <a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gastroparesis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355787\">Gastroparesis</a>, or delayed stomach emptying, is a condition caused by partial paralysis of the stomach. This condition affects <a href=\"https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gastroparesis/definition-facts\">50 out of 100,000</a> people. Gastroparesis symptoms are debilitating and can lead t severe complications if left untreated. Although getting diagnosed with gastroparesis is relatively rare, <a href=\"https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gastroparesis/definition-facts\">1 out of 4</a> people will experience symptoms similar to gastroparesis.</p><h1 id=\"what-is-gastroparesis\">What Is Gastroparesis?</h1><p>Gastroparesis is a disorder of the digestive tract where there is little to no movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine. When the gastrointestinal tract is regularly working, muscles move food throughout your digestive system. Firstly, food is transferred from your mouth to your esophagus by swallowing. Muscle movement in your esophagus propels food into your stomach, where muscles churn and grind food into small, more absorbable pieces. Food then moves from the stomach throughout the small and large intestines.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/doctor-3190030_1920.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Cartoon diagram picture of the gastrointestinal tract in people.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Gastroparesis slows digestion and can lead to nutrient deficiencies.</em></figcaption></figure><p>In gastroparesis, the stomach muscles do not work correctly. Frequently, nerve damage in the stomach causes muscles not to work correctly. Therefore, food does not get broken down, and the stomach takes too long to empty, which delays digestion. The slowing of stomach digestion can lead to various unpleasant symptoms and complications. Gastric bypass or gastric sleeve surgery can help eliminate the struggles of this condition and help the individual improve their quality of life. </p><h1 id=\"what-causes-gastroparesis\">What Causes Gastroparesis?</h1><p>The number one cause of gastroparesis is diabetes. <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-bypass-and-diabetes/\">Type 2 Diabetes</a> causes nerve damage in the stomach over time, which can lead to dysfunction in the stomach muscles and even paralysis. Gastroparesis can also be idiopathic, meaning that there is no clear cause or reason as to why a person may have gastroparesis.</p><p>Certain factors put some individuals at greater risk for gastroparesis. Risk factors include:</p><ul><li>Diabetes</li><li>Obesity</li><li>Abdominal or esophageal surgery</li><li>Damage to the vagus nerve</li><li>Viral infection</li><li>Medications that slow gastric emptying such as narcotics</li><li><a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scleroderma/symptoms-causes/syc-20351952\">Scleroderma</a></li><li><a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypothyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20350284\">Hypothyroidism</a></li><li>Diseases of the nervous system such as Parkinson’s disease</li><li>Radiation therapy for cancers in the chest and abdomen</li></ul><p>Furthermore, women are four more times likely than men to develop gastroparesis. <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3936776/\">Studies</a> have suggested that women with Type 2 diabetes are more likely to have gastroparesis because they have a greater <a href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/index.html\">Body Mass Index</a> (BMI) and a higher <a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/a1c-test/about/pac-20384643\">Hemoglobin A1c</a> compared to men with Type 2 diabetes.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/priscilla-du-preez-WFBVn6fSgys-unsplash.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Three women walking and laughing together.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Women are four more times likely than men to be diagnosed with gastroparesis.</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"what-are-the-symptoms-of-gastroparesis\">What Are the Symptoms of Gastroparesis?</h1><p>Some people do not have symptoms even though they have gastroparesis. However, many people with this condition experience some, or all, of the following symptoms:</p><ul><li>Nausea</li><li>Vomiting (People may vomit undigested food ingested a few hours earlier)</li><li>Abdominal cramping and pain</li><li>Feeling full after only a few bites of a meal</li><li>Acid reflux</li><li>Bloating</li><li>Changes in blood sugar</li><li>Lack of appetite</li><li>Malnutrition</li><li>Unintended weight loss</li></ul><h1 id=\"what-are-complications-of-gastroparesis\">What Are Complications of Gastroparesis?</h1><p>Complications of gastroparesis may be mild to severe. Some complications may be life-threatening. Gastroparesis complications include:</p><ul><li>Dehydration due to repeated vomiting</li><li>Malnutrition</li><li>Low-calorie intake</li><li>Unstable blood sugar</li><li>Unintended weight loss</li><li><a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gastroparesis/expert-answers/bezoars/faq-20058050\">Bezoars</a></li><li>Lower quality of life</li></ul><h1 id=\"how-to-diagnose-gastroparesis\">How To Diagnose Gastroparesis</h1><p>There are several tests your doctor may perform if you are concerned that you have gastroparesis.</p><ul><li>Gastric Emptying Study - This test is an essential tool in diagnosing gastroparesis. In this test, you will eat a light meal that contains a small amount of radioactive material. This radioactive material helps a scanner detect food moving throughout your digestive system. While you digest, a scanner is placed over your abdomen to monitor how long it takes for food to leave your stomach.</li><li>Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy - Sometimes called an Upper GI, this procedure is performed by a <a href=\"https://gi.org/patients/gi-health-and-disease/what-is-a-gastroenterologist/\">gastroenterologist</a> who uses a thin scope with a tiny camera on the tip to look down your esophagus, stomach, and into the first part of your small intestine. Your doctor can diagnose a variety of GI conditions, including peptic ulcer disease and pyloric stenosis with endoscopy.</li><li>Ultrasound - Your doctor will be able to look at your digestive organs using high-frequency sound waves to produce images on a screen.</li><li>Barium Swallow Study - Your doctor may order a series of x-rays to be taken while you digest barium, which is a white, chalk-like liquid that coats your digestive system. Barium can be picked up by an x-ray and can identify anything that may be abnormal.</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/nerve-cell-2213009_1920.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Depiction of what a nerve ending looks like in the human body.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Gastroparesis is usually caused by damage to nerves in the stomach.</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"what-treatment-options-are-available-for-gastroparesis\">What Treatment Options Are Available For Gastroparesis?</h1><p>If you have been diagnosed with gastroparesis, several treatment options may be available to you. Firstly, if you have diabetes, you will want to work with your doctor to control your blood sugar and treat your diabetes. Managing your diabetes can help alleviate symptoms associated with gastroparesis. Dietary changes can also help treat gastroparesis. Maintaining proper nutrition is an important goal for people with gastroparesis. Your doctor may recommend you work with a dietician to ensure you get enough calories and nutrients. You may need to add <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/wls-patients-need-personalized-bariatric-vitamin-regimens/\">supplements</a> to your diet to ensure you are getting essential nutrients. Furthermore, your doctor may prescribe medication that aims to either stimulate the stomach muscles or reduce unpleasant symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.</p><p>Surgical treatment may be recommended by your doctor when the above treatments are not successful in controlling symptoms. Surgical options include:</p><ul><li>Gastric Pacemaker - Similar to a pacemaker in the heart, a gastric pacemaker sends electrical signals to the stomach muscles to restore the normal functioning of muscles.</li><li>Gastric Sleeve for Gastroparesis - A surgeon may perform gastric sleeve for gastroparesis to remove stomach tissue that is not functioning. Gastric sleeve for gastroparesis may reduce nausea and vomiting, which are very uncomfortable symptoms of gastroparesis.</li><li>Gastric Bypass for Gastroparesis - A surgeon may recommend gastric bypass surgery for gastroparesis if there is damaged stomach tissue. Gastric bypass for gastroparesis is an effective treatment option for people who are overweight and suffering from gastroparesis.</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/x-ray-2117685_1920.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Picture of an operating room in a hospital. \" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Your doctor may recommend surgery if other forms of treatment have failed.</em></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"gastric-bypass-for-gastroparesis-as-a-treatment-option\">Gastric Bypass for Gastroparesis As A Treatment Option</h1><p>Traditionally, gastric bypass surgery is a procedure that aims to treat morbid obesity and diseases related to obesity. <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25012775\">Studies</a> have identified that gastric bypass surgery may also improve gastroparesis in overweight patients. Indeed, one <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25012775\">study</a> found that people who were taking medication to help with gastroparesis were able to stop the medication after gastric bypass surgery.</p><p>Gastric bypass surgery is a bariatric procedure where a surgeon modifies the anatomy of the digestive tract to help with weight loss in severely overweight people. Gastric bypass surgery also called a <a href=\"https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/rouxeny-gastric-bypass-weightloss-surgery\">Roux-en-Y</a> procedure, is a two-part procedure. Firstly, the surgeon cuts the stomach into a smaller pouch that limits how much food a person can eat at one time. Secondly, part of the stomach and small intestine are bypassed to limit nutrient absorption.</p><p>Although studies are limited that address gastric bypass for gastroparesis, gastric bypass is a safe operation with a low risk of complications. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-bypass-complications/\">complications</a> with gastric bypass surgery. Complications from surgery should be weighed against the long term complications of living with gastroparesis and severe obesity. Furthermore, gastric bypass surgery can help <a href=\"http://www.apple.com\">treat Type 2 diabetes</a>, which is one of the leading causes of gastroparesis. Indeed, <a href=\"https://www.sages.org/video/laparoscopic-gastric-bypass-for-gastroparesis-indications-technical-considerations-outcomes/\">30%</a> of gastroparesis cases are due to diabetes.</p><h1 id=\"is-gastric-bypass-for-gastroparesis-for-me\">Is Gastric Bypass For Gastroparesis For Me?</h1><p>If you qualify for bariatric surgery and have gastroparesis, gastric bypass surgery may be an option for you. However, you and your doctor will want to work together to try different treatment options before going through surgery. These treatment options may include controlling your diabetes, managing your symptoms, medication, undergoing a nutritional assessment, increasing physical activity, and dietary modification. It is important to note that each person has different experiences and results with surgery. Talk with your doctor about what is best for you in treating your gastroparesis.</p>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/gastric-bypass-for-gastroparesis/","uuid":"2b1f521e-725c-4ee7-a7bd-9d671141f6b3","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5e0f50e00b127c00386d6d5d"}},{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5e0fbc010b127c00386d6dc2","title":"Gastric Sleeve Regrets","slug":"gastric-sleeve-regrets","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/scale.jpg","excerpt":"Deciding whether or not to have surgery can feel overwhelming. When a procedure is elective, like the gastric sleeve, it may cause one to give pause and consider if this is the right choice.","custom_excerpt":"Deciding whether or not to have surgery can feel overwhelming. When a procedure is elective, like the gastric sleeve, it may cause one to give pause and consider if this is the right choice.","created_at_pretty":"03 January, 2020","published_at_pretty":"08 January, 2020","updated_at_pretty":"23 June, 2020","created_at":"2020-01-03T17:11:13.000-05:00","published_at":"2020-01-08T08:00:00.000-05:00","updated_at":"2020-06-22T22:48:11.000-04:00","meta_title":"Gastric Sleeve Regrets","meta_description":"Deciding whether or not to have surgery can feel overwhelming. When a procedure is elective, like the gastric sleeve, it may cause one to give pause and consider if this is the right choice. ","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},{"name":"Gintas Antanavicius, MD, FACS, FASMBS","slug":"gintas","bio":"Dr. G is a co-founder of BariBuilder. A US-based expert surgeon with over 10 years of bariatric experience, he regularly publishes research in medical journals like SOARD, Obesity Surgery, etc.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2018/11/drgheadshot.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA","slug":"darby","bio":"Darby is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty-five years experience. Most of all, she loves empowering patients with the knowledge they need to live full, healthy lives.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/darby.jpg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Regrets","slug":"regrets","description":"Articles about regrets and weight loss surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/woman-leaning-on-glass-window-1101726.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"Deciding whether or not to have surgery can feel overwhelming. When a procedure\nis elective, like the gastric sleeve, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, it may\ncause one to give pause and consider if this is the right choice.  The most\nimportant thing a person can do before making a final decision about any surgery\nis to become educated about the pros and cons, as well as any pre- or\npost-operative expectations.\n\nWhat is the Sleeve Gastrectomy?\nThe sleeve gastrectomy\n[https://www.webmd.com/diet/obesity/what-is-gastric-sleeve-weight-loss-surgery#1] \nis a surgical procedure that induces weight loss by restricting the amount of\nfood a person can consume.  The procedure involves the surgeon removing\napproximately two-thirds of the stomach.  The new shape of the stomach is that\nof a tube or “sleeve”.\n\nOriginally, the sleeve gastrectomy was the first step in a two-phase duodenal\nswitch procedure aimed at treating morbidly obese patients who had other\nhigh-risk factors, or comorbidities.  Today, however, the sleeve gastrectomy is\na more common stand-alone procedure.\n\nApproximately ⅔ of the stomach is removed during a sleeve gastrectomy.\nConsiderations to keep in mind\nOverall, gastric sleeve is considered a safe procedure when compared to other\ncommonly performed surgeries.  Like many surgical procedures, the sleeve\ngastrectomy is irreversible.  Therefore, it is important to consider all of the\nfacts about the surgery, including your personal reasons for choosing this\nmethod of weight loss and any other health-related factors that may affect your\npost surgical success.\n\nDespite the decrease in stomach size, bariatric surgery is a tool.  If it is not\nused correctly, the chance of successful weight loss and maintenance is\ndecreased.  In fact, it is possible, especially after the first year, to\nexperience weight regain.  Following gastric sleeve surgery, the patient must\nadhere to discharge teaching and instructions to achieve success.  Following a\nbariatric diet, exercising and taking vitamin supplements\n[https://amzn.to/3hSRaRS]helps improve one’s success rate after gastric sleeve\nsurgery.\n\nFollowing a bariatric diet, exercising and taking vitamin supplements helps\nimprove one’s success rate after gastric sleeve surgery.If you are considering\nhaving a sleeve gastrectomy, take the time to weigh the pros and cons, as they\napply to you personally.  Some things you need to consider are:\n\n * Have you tried other diet plans, but not been successful? When you have your\n   initial consultation about having this surgery, you will be asked what other\n   weight loss plans/diets you have tried in the past.  Because sleeve\n   gastrectomy is an elective procedure, many insurance companies will not\n   approve the surgery unless other weight loss efforts have been documented and\n   were ineffective.  Don’t worry!  Be honest and follow the process!\n * Do you have any comorbidities?Comorbidity\n   [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10696282] is the presence of chronic\n   disease related to excess weight. An example is an individual who has a\n   diagnosis of obesity and hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, high\n   cholesterol.  The presence of comorbidities means an individual is at greater\n   risk for health-related problems.  It is one factor that many physicians look\n   at when discussing the option of bariatric surgery with clients.\n * How much weight do you need to lose?  An individual who only  wants to lose\n   20 or 30 lbs may not immediately consider bariatric surgery as an option.On\n   average, most people lose about 60% of their excess body weight in the first\n   12 to 18 months following sleeve gastrectomy\n   [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10696282].  If your excess weight is 100\n   lbs you are expected to lose between 60 to 70 lbs. Keep in mind, activity\n   level and diet plays a big role in the rate of weight loss.  Some people may\n   lose weight more quickly than others.\n\nAfter a life-changing decision, having some regrets is normal. Knowing what to\nexpect will help you prepare for these feelings.Common Regrets and Frustrations\nRelated to Gastric Sleeve Surgery\nSometimes considering the pros and cons can seem a little one-sided, especially\nif the negative things you read or hear are not what you expected.\n Nevertheless, before settling in on a life-changing decision, looking at both\nsides really is important.  With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the\nmost common regrets people express postoperatively - they wish they knew that\nbefore surgery.\n\nHaving to learn the difference between head hunger and being hungry\nHead hunger\n[https://www.health.com/weight-loss/10-types-of-hunger-and-how-to-control-them] \nor emotional hunger is the desire to eat for any reason other than physical\nhunger. Head hunger is usually experienced because of a trigger food or the\nemotional need for comfort, hence the term “comfort food.”  Even after weight\nloss surgery, head hunger can play a significant role in a person’s success with\nreaching weight loss goals.  Some signs that the hunger one is experiencing is\nhead hunger, rather than physical hunger include:\n\n * Recently ate, but feeling the “need” to eat again:  If you have eaten within\n   the last two hours and feel like you are hungry again, it is likely head\n   hunger, not physical hunger.\n * An emotional response, such as anger or fear.\n * Craving a specific food or flavor (chocolate or salty foods):  Unlike head\n   hunger, a person who is experiencing true physical hunger will not have a\n   “craving”.  Rather, the need to fuel the body for energy is felt more than\n   the need for a particular type of food.\n\nFeeling like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster\nThe physical changes that occur after weight loss surgery can sometimes cause\nemotional changes.  With weight loss, the adrenal system seems to “slow down.”\n The decrease in adrenaline production can leave some people feeling tired or\ndepressed. \n\nNot drinking 30 minutes before and after a meal\nThe gastric sleeve surgery results in a smaller stomach, which means the amount\nof food or fluids one can consume is much more restricted.  Drinking liquids\nwithin 30 minutes of a meal can cause the stomach to be filled with liquids,\nwhich means less room for the nutrient-rich foods your body needs.\n\nAlso, drinking while eating means more liquid mixes with the food in the stomach\nand the consistency of the food is thinned.  This results in food moving through\nyour new stomach before essential nutrients can be absorbed.  It is recommended\nthat bariatric patients concentrate on allowing the stomach to be filled with \nlean proteins [https://amzn.to/3hPCNh3], which will give a feeling of fullness\nlonger, and resume drinking no sooner than 30 minutes after a meal.\n\n“Feeling like I don’t belong at the dinner table”\nLearning how much to eat and what foods are best can feel like a struggle after\nsleeve surgery.  Many people state that they feel out of place when eating with\nothers, or that mealtime is no longer enjoyable.  The amount of food that the\nnew, smaller stomach can hold is much less than the amount those who have not\nhad surgery can take. \n\nBecause of this, sleeve patients usually feel full much faster than non-sleeve\npatients.  The brain does not automatically get the message that the stomach is\nfull.  Therefore, it is important to remember to eat slowly and chew food well.\nThis gives your brain the time to be signaled that you’ve had enough food.\n Also, by doing this, you can enjoy eating with friends/loved ones without\nfeeling like you’ve finished too soon or that you’re just sitting at the table\nbut not eating. \n\nIt’s not uncommon for people who have had sleeve surgery to lose a large amount\nof weight, but not be able to see the changes in themselves.Still seeing an\nobese person in the mirror\nAs odd as this may sound, many bariatric patients say that, no matter how much\nweight they lose, they still don’t see the new version of themselves that\neveryone else does.  After weight loss surgery, especially during the first 6-12\nmonths, weight loss can be rapid.  The body changes much faster than the mind\nseems to be able to comprehend.  Because of this, many people still view\nthemselves as obese or unhealthy, regardless of significant weight loss. \n\nAddiction Transfer\nPreoperative consultations and education are a must!  One thing that any good\nsurgeon and his/her team will discuss with a client is the risk of addiction\ntransfer\n[http://bariatrictimes.com/transfer-of-addiction-and-considerations-for-preventive-measures-in-bariatric-surgery-part-ii/]\n.  Addiction transfer, or cross addiction, occurs when individuals trade\ncompulsive eating for other compulsive behaviors. For these people, food is no\nlonger a source of comfort, escape or distraction. Therefore, other behaviors or\nsubstances become a substitute for eating and can result in serious problems.\n Some examples of transfer addictions include gambling, drinking alcohol in\nexcess, using drugs or engaging in risky sexual relationships.  While not\neveryone experiences addiction transfer, it is important to acknowledge the fact\nthat it can occur and be prepared if or when those urges arise.\n\nHair Loss\nIn the first 6 months following bariatric surgery, calorie intake is diminished.\nThis may contribute to a decrease in the intake of macronutrients, particularly\nprotein.  Because hair follicles are comprised mostly of protein, consuming\nadequate amounts of protein is important.  Additionally, following surgery,\nstress and hormonal changes occur.   All of these factors can result in hair\nloss [https://blog.baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-hair-loss/].  This type of hair loss,\nknown as telogen effluvium, is associated with bariatric surgery.  It is common\nin both men and women and occurs during the most rapid phase of weight loss.\n Following a post-surgical diet, including consuming the recommended amount of\nvitamins and protein will help the body to achieve a state of balance, which\nwill (in time) stop the hair loss.\n\nWeighing Your Options… No Pun Intended\nCarefully weighing your options will help you choose the decision that is best\nfor you.If you are considering having sleeve gastrectomy surgery, take your time\nto research information about the surgery.  Read articles about the surgery that\nshare both pros and cons.  Join support groups and/or social media groups that\nare focused on bariatric education.  Talk with your loved ones about the fact\nthat you are considering the surgery.  Ask them to share their thoughts, in a\nnon-judgemental way.  Most importantly, talk to your doctor.  Your primary\nhealth care provider should be able to review your medical history and discuss\nyour health goals with you in an open manner.  He/she can advise you regarding\nwhether the gastric sleeve is a good option for your weight loss goals.\n\nLastly, while educational sources and individual opinions vary, the most\nimportant voice you will listen to is your own.  Take the time to think about\nthe choices you’ve made previously that brought you to this place in your life.\n Make a list of reasons you should or should not have the surgery.  After you\nhave weighed all of the options, you will be able to make a decision that you\nwill be comfortable living with.","html":"<p>Deciding whether or not to have surgery can feel overwhelming. When a procedure is elective, like the gastric sleeve, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, it may cause one to give pause and consider if this is the right choice.  The most important thing a person can do before making a final decision about any surgery is to become educated about the pros and cons, as well as any pre- or post-operative expectations.</p><h1 id=\"what-is-the-sleeve-gastrectomy\">What is the Sleeve Gastrectomy?</h1><p>The <a href=\"https://www.webmd.com/diet/obesity/what-is-gastric-sleeve-weight-loss-surgery#1\">sleeve gastrectomy</a> is a surgical procedure that induces weight loss by restricting the amount of food a person can consume.  The procedure involves the surgeon removing approximately two-thirds of the stomach.  The new shape of the stomach is that of a tube or “sleeve”.  </p><p>Originally, the sleeve gastrectomy was the first step in a two-phase duodenal switch procedure aimed at treating morbidly obese patients who had other high-risk factors, or comorbidities.  Today, however, the sleeve gastrectomy is a more common stand-alone procedure.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/weight-loss-4232016_1920.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Plate with weight loss spelled out.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><i>Approximately ⅔ of the stomach is removed during a sleeve gastrectomy.</i></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"considerations-to-keep-in-mind\">Considerations to keep in mind</h1><p>Overall, gastric sleeve is considered a safe procedure when compared to other commonly performed surgeries.  Like many surgical procedures, the sleeve gastrectomy is irreversible.  Therefore, it is important to consider all of the facts about the surgery, including your personal reasons for choosing this method of weight loss and any other health-related factors that may affect your post surgical success.  </p><p>Despite the decrease in stomach size, bariatric surgery is a <strong>tool</strong>.  If it is not used correctly, the chance of successful weight loss and maintenance is decreased.  In fact, it is possible, especially after the first year, to experience weight regain.  Following gastric sleeve surgery, the patient must adhere to discharge teaching and instructions to achieve success.  Following a bariatric diet, exercising and taking <a href=\"https://amzn.to/3hSRaRS\">vitamin supplements </a>helps improve one’s success rate after gastric sleeve surgery.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/kitchen-1.jpeg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Person cooking in kitchen.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><i>Following a bariatric diet, exercising and taking vitamin supplements helps improve one’s success rate after gastric sleeve surgery.</i></figcaption></figure><p>If you are considering having a sleeve gastrectomy, take the time to weigh the pros and cons, as they apply to you personally.  Some things you need to consider are:</p><ul><li>Have you tried other diet plans, but not been successful? When you have your initial consultation about having this surgery, you will be asked what other weight loss plans/diets you have tried in the past.  Because sleeve gastrectomy is an elective procedure, many insurance companies will not approve the surgery unless other weight loss efforts have been documented and were ineffective.  Don’t worry!  Be honest and follow the process!</li><li>Do you have any comorbidities?  <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10696282\">Comorbidity</a> is the presence of chronic disease related to excess weight. An example is an individual who has a diagnosis of obesity and hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, high cholesterol.  The presence of comorbidities means an individual is at greater risk for health-related problems.  It is one factor that many physicians look at when discussing the option of bariatric surgery with clients.</li><li>How much weight do you need to lose?  An individual who only  wants to lose 20 or 30 lbs may not immediately consider bariatric surgery as an option.  <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10696282\">On average, most people lose about 60% of their excess body weight in the first 12 to 18 months following sleeve gastrectomy</a>.  If your excess weight is 100 lbs you are expected to lose between 60 to 70 lbs. Keep in mind, activity level and diet plays a big role in the rate of weight loss.  Some people may lose weight more quickly than others.  </li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/sad.jpeg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Person with hands in face.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>After a life-changing decision, having some regrets is normal. Knowing what to expect will help you prepare for these feelings.</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"common-regrets-and-frustrations-related-to-gastric-sleeve-surgery\">Common Regrets and Frustrations Related to Gastric Sleeve Surgery</h1><p>Sometimes considering the pros and cons can seem a little one-sided, especially if the negative things you read or hear are not what you expected.  Nevertheless, before settling in on a life-changing decision, looking at both sides really is important.  With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most common regrets people express postoperatively - they wish they knew that before surgery.</p><h2 id=\"having-to-learn-the-difference-between-head-hunger-and-being-hungry\">Having to learn the difference between head hunger and being hungry</h2><p><a href=\"https://www.health.com/weight-loss/10-types-of-hunger-and-how-to-control-them\">Head hunger</a> or emotional hunger is the desire to eat for any reason <em>other than physical hunger</em>. Head hunger is usually experienced because of a trigger food or the emotional need for comfort, hence the term “comfort food.”  Even after weight loss surgery, head hunger can play a significant role in a person’s success with reaching weight loss goals.  Some signs that the hunger one is experiencing is head hunger, rather than physical hunger include:</p><ul><li><strong>Recently ate, but feeling the “need” to eat again</strong>:  If you have eaten within the last two hours and feel like you are hungry again, it is likely head hunger, not physical hunger.</li><li><strong>An emotional response</strong>, such as anger or fear.</li><li><strong>Craving a specific food or flavor (chocolate or salty foods)</strong>:  Unlike head hunger, a person who is experiencing true physical hunger will not have a “craving”.  Rather, the need to fuel the body for energy is felt more than the need for a particular type of food.</li></ul><h2 id=\"feeling-like-you-re-on-an-emotional-rollercoaster\">Feeling like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster</h2><p>The physical changes that occur after weight loss surgery can sometimes cause emotional changes.  With weight loss, the adrenal system seems to “slow down.”  The decrease in adrenaline production can leave some people feeling tired or depressed. </p><h2 id=\"not-drinking-30-minutes-before-and-after-a-meal\">Not drinking 30 minutes before and after a meal</h2><p>The gastric sleeve surgery results in a smaller stomach, which means the amount of food or fluids one can consume is much more restricted.  Drinking liquids within 30 minutes of a meal can cause the stomach to be filled with liquids, which means less room for the nutrient-rich foods your body needs.</p><p>Also, drinking while eating means more liquid mixes with the food in the stomach and the consistency of the food is thinned.  This results in food moving through your new stomach before essential nutrients can be absorbed.  It is recommended that bariatric patients concentrate on allowing the stomach to be filled with<a href=\"https://amzn.to/3hPCNh3\"> lean proteins</a>, which will give a feeling of fullness longer, and resume drinking no sooner than 30 minutes after a meal.</p><h2 id=\"-feeling-like-i-don-t-belong-at-the-dinner-table-\">“Feeling like I don’t belong at the dinner table”</h2><p>Learning how much to eat and what foods are best can feel like a struggle after sleeve surgery.  Many people state that they feel out of place when eating with others, or that mealtime is no longer enjoyable.  The amount of food that the new, smaller stomach can hold is much less than the amount those who have not had surgery can take. </p><p>Because of this, sleeve patients usually feel full much faster than non-sleeve patients.  The brain does not automatically get the message that the stomach is full.  Therefore, it is important to remember to eat slowly and chew food well. This gives your brain the time to be signaled that you’ve had enough food.  Also, by doing this, you can enjoy eating with friends/loved ones without feeling like you’ve finished too soon or that you’re just sitting at the table but not eating. </p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/eye-4735898_1920.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>It’s not uncommon for people who have had sleeve surgery to lose a large amount of weight, but not be able to see the changes in themselves.</figcaption></figure><h2 id=\"still-seeing-an-obese-person-in-the-mirror\">Still seeing an obese person in the mirror</h2><p>As odd as this may sound, many bariatric patients say that, no matter how much weight they lose, they still don’t see the new version of themselves that everyone else does.  After weight loss surgery, especially during the first 6-12 months, weight loss can be rapid.  The body changes much faster than the mind seems to be able to comprehend.  Because of this, many people still view themselves as obese or unhealthy, regardless of significant weight loss. </p><h2 id=\"addiction-transfer\">Addiction Transfer</h2><p>Preoperative consultations and education are a must!  One thing that any good surgeon and his/her team will discuss with a client is the risk of <a href=\"http://bariatrictimes.com/transfer-of-addiction-and-considerations-for-preventive-measures-in-bariatric-surgery-part-ii/\">addiction transfer</a>.  Addiction transfer, or cross addiction, occurs when individuals trade compulsive eating for other compulsive behaviors. For these people, food is no longer a source of comfort, escape or distraction. Therefore, other behaviors or substances become a substitute for eating and can result in serious problems.  Some examples of transfer addictions include gambling, drinking alcohol in excess, using drugs or engaging in risky sexual relationships.  While not everyone experiences addiction transfer, it is important to acknowledge the fact that it can occur and be prepared if or when those urges arise.</p><h2 id=\"hair-loss\">Hair Loss</h2><p>In the first 6 months following bariatric surgery, calorie intake is diminished. This may contribute to a decrease in the intake of macronutrients, particularly protein.  Because hair follicles are comprised mostly of protein, consuming adequate amounts of protein is important.  Additionally, following surgery, stress and hormonal changes occur.   All of these factors can result in <a href=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-hair-loss/\">hair loss</a>.  This type of hair loss, known as telogen effluvium, is associated with bariatric surgery.  It is common in both men and women and occurs during the most rapid phase of weight loss.  Following a post-surgical diet, including consuming the recommended amount of vitamins and protein will help the body to achieve a state of balance, which will (in time) stop the hair loss.  </p><h1 id=\"weighing-your-options-no-pun-intended\">Weighing Your Options… No Pun Intended</h1><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/01/doors-1767563_1920.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Line of doors.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Carefully weighing your options will help you choose the decision that is best for you.</figcaption></figure><p>If you are considering having sleeve gastrectomy surgery, take your time to research information about the surgery.  Read articles about the surgery that share both pros and cons.  Join support groups and/or social media groups that are focused on bariatric education.  Talk with your loved ones about the fact that you are considering the surgery.  Ask them to share their thoughts, in a non-judgemental way.  Most importantly, talk to your doctor.  Your primary health care provider should be able to review your medical history and discuss your health goals with you in an open manner.  He/she can advise you regarding whether the gastric sleeve is a good option for your weight loss goals.</p><p>Lastly, while educational sources and individual opinions vary, the most important voice you will listen to is your own.  Take the time to think about the choices you’ve made previously that brought you to this place in your life.  Make a list of reasons you should or should not have the surgery.  After you have weighed all of the options, you will be able to make a decision that you will be comfortable living with.  </p><p></p><p></p>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/gastric-sleeve-regrets/","uuid":"3cd7c691-4fe0-44af-80b8-9e34ec6be72d","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5e0fbc010b127c00386d6dc2"}},{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5e0028170b127c00386d6c56","title":"Constipation After Gastric Sleeve Surgery","slug":"constipation-after-gastric-sleeve","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/paper.jpg","excerpt":"Patients can expect several changes after surgery, but one less commonly discussed change is constipation. Constipation after gastric sleeve surgery has been studied and found to be quite common among patients.","custom_excerpt":"Patients can expect several changes after surgery, but one less commonly discussed change is constipation. Constipation after gastric sleeve surgery has been studied and found to be quite common among patients.","created_at_pretty":"23 December, 2019","published_at_pretty":"01 January, 2020","updated_at_pretty":"12 April, 2020","created_at":"2019-12-22T21:36:07.000-05:00","published_at":"2020-01-01T07:00:00.000-05:00","updated_at":"2020-04-12T14:13:08.000-04:00","meta_title":"Constipation After Gastric Sleeve Surgery","meta_description":"Patients can expect changes after surgery, but one undisclosed change is constipation. Constipation after gastric sleeve has been found to be common.","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Danijela Pandza, MSN, ANP-BC","slug":"danijela","bio":"Danijela is an adult primary care nurse practitioner with over three years of experience working in bariatric surgery. She is passionate about empowering patients through education.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/10/BariBuilder-photo-2.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},{"name":"Gintas Antanavicius, MD, FACS, FASMBS","slug":"gintas","bio":"Dr. G is a co-founder of BariBuilder. A US-based expert surgeon with over 10 years of bariatric experience, he regularly publishes research in medical journals like SOARD, Obesity Surgery, etc.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2018/11/drgheadshot.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Danijela Pandza, MSN, ANP-BC","slug":"danijela","bio":"Danijela is an adult primary care nurse practitioner with over three years of experience working in bariatric surgery. She is passionate about empowering patients through education.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/10/BariBuilder-photo-2.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Constipation","slug":"constipation","description":"Articles about constipation after weight loss surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/kolar-io-xXc7zUKIhRw-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"Many patients experience changes in their daily life after having bariatric\nsurgery. Patients can expect changes in their eating habits and food choices,\nexercise regimens, body measurements, and even mood\n[https://bmcobes.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40608-018-0215-3] \npostoperatively, but one less commonly discussed change is constipation.\n\nConstipation after gastric sleeve surgery has been studied\n[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5018031/] and found to be quite\ncommon among patients postop. Here we will discuss causes, treatment, and\nprevention of constipation after gastric sleeve.\n\nConstipation can be prevalent after gastric bypass surgery.What Causes\nConstipation After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?\nThe gastric sleeve or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) is a surgical procedure\n[https://asmbs.org/patients/bariatric-surgery-procedures#sleeve] where a portion\nof the stomach is removed. The dramatically smaller stomach size produces weight\nloss by reducing caloric intake.\n\nSince there is such a small space for food, patients typically focus on protein\nintake, which leaves little room for fiber-rich carbohydrates, fruits, and\nvegetables. Fiber-rich\n[https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983] \nfoods are vital to having regular bowel movements. Fiber increases the size of\nthe stool as well as soften the stool to make it pass easier.\n\nHigh protein diets also increase the feeling of fullness, which can be achieved\npretty quickly after a meal post, gastric sleeve surgery. This feeling of\nfullness can prevent patients from drinking water throughout the day. Decreased\nfluid intake can cause dehydration and further exacerbate constipation. Like\nfiber, water intake is important in softening stool and moving it along the\ngastrointestinal tract.\n\nDietary and fluid intake is the more commonly discussed cause of constipation\nafter gastric sleeve, but some medications are just as likely to slow down bowel\nmovements.\n\nGeneral anesthesia, which is given during the surgical procedure and narcotic\n[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493184/] pain medications given\nafterward, slows down the wavelike movements of the intestines known as\nperistalsis, which helps to push food and fluids along through the\ngastrointestinal tract to be eventually evacuated.\n\nWhat you eat after gastric bypass surgery can play a large factor in\nconstipation issues.How to Prevent Constipation After Gastric Sleeve\nThankfully for gastric sleeve patients, many of the daily habits that help in\nachieving weight loss are also helpful in preventing weight loss. Eating high\nfiber foods, maintaining adequate hydration, and routine aerobic exercise are\nall habits that will help keep constipation at bay. As mentioned before, fiber\nand fluids help to soften and push stool through the gastrointestinal tract.\nExercise\n[https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/constipation-causes-and-prevention-tips] \nprevents constipation differently than fiber and fluid by promoting peristalsis,\nthe wavelike movements of the intestinal tract, which helps to move stool out of\nthe colon.\n\nExercise helps prevent constipation issues after gastric bypass surgery.Tips for\nPreventing Constipation:\n * Set a reminder or alarm at regular intervals to take small sips of fluids\n   throughout the day.\n * Add lemon, cucumbers or mint to liven up plain water.\n * Include high fiber plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, and tofu in\n   meals and snacks.\n * Choose protein-rich veggies like broccoli, brussels sprouts, and asparagus.\n * Snack on nuts and seeds.\n * Take the stairs instead of the elevator.\n * Walk or bike to work if possible.\n * Park the car as far from the front door as possible\n\nAdding mint to water can help prevent constipation.When to Seek Help For\nConstipation After Gastric Sleeve?\nConstipation after gastric sleeve can last anywhere from several hours to days.\nWhen constipation lasts more than three days and becomes increasingly\nuncomfortable, patients should seek medical help. Bariatric health professionals\ncan help to recommend appropriate over the counter treatments such as stool\nsofteners, laxative, and suppositories.\n\nAlways follow up with a bariatric health provider before using over the counter\ntreatments to ensure that they are safe to use.\n\nOver-the-counter treatments can be used to help constipation but you should ask\nyour health care provider before use.","html":"<p>Many patients experience changes in their daily life after having bariatric surgery. Patients can expect changes in their eating habits and food choices, exercise regimens, body measurements, and even <a href=\"https://bmcobes.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40608-018-0215-3\">mood</a> postoperatively, but one less commonly discussed change is constipation.</p><p>Constipation after gastric sleeve surgery has been <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5018031/\">studied</a> and found to be quite common among patients postop. Here we will discuss causes, treatment, and prevention of constipation after gastric sleeve.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/stomach.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Man with a measuring tape around his stomach.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Constipation can be prevalent after gastric bypass surgery.</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"what-causes-constipation-after-gastric-sleeve-surgery\">What Causes Constipation After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?</h1><p>The gastric sleeve or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) is a surgical <a href=\"https://asmbs.org/patients/bariatric-surgery-procedures#sleeve\">procedure</a> where a portion of the stomach is removed. The dramatically smaller stomach size produces weight loss by reducing caloric intake.</p><p>Since there is such a small space for food, patients typically focus on protein intake, which leaves little room for fiber-rich carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables. <a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983\">Fiber-rich</a> foods are vital to having regular bowel movements. Fiber increases the size of the stool as well as soften the stool to make it pass easier.</p><p>High protein diets also increase the feeling of fullness, which can be achieved pretty quickly after a meal post, gastric sleeve surgery. This feeling of fullness can prevent patients from drinking water throughout the day. Decreased fluid intake can cause dehydration and further exacerbate constipation. Like fiber, water intake is important in softening stool and moving it along the gastrointestinal tract.</p><p>Dietary and fluid intake is the more commonly discussed cause of constipation after gastric sleeve, but some medications are just as likely to slow down bowel movements.</p><p>General anesthesia, which is given during the surgical procedure and <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493184/\">narcotic</a> pain medications given afterward, slows down the wavelike movements of the intestines known as peristalsis, which helps to push food and fluids along through the gastrointestinal tract to be eventually evacuated.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/food.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Fresh vegetables laid out on a table.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>What you eat after gastric bypass surgery can play a large factor in constipation issues.</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"how-to-prevent-constipation-after-gastric-sleeve\">How to Prevent Constipation After Gastric Sleeve</h1><p>Thankfully for gastric sleeve patients, many of the daily habits that help in achieving weight loss are also helpful in preventing weight loss. Eating high fiber foods, maintaining adequate hydration, and routine aerobic exercise are all habits that will help keep constipation at bay. As mentioned before, fiber and fluids help to soften and push stool through the gastrointestinal tract<a href=\"https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/constipation-causes-and-prevention-tips\">. Exercise</a> prevents constipation differently than fiber and fluid by promoting peristalsis, the wavelike movements of the intestinal tract, which helps to move stool out of the colon.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/girl-running.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Woman running in the woods.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Exercise helps prevent constipation issues after gastric bypass surgery.</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"tips-for-preventing-constipation-\">Tips for Preventing Constipation:</h1><ul><li>Set a reminder or alarm at regular intervals to take small sips of fluids throughout the day.</li><li>Add lemon, cucumbers or mint to liven up plain water.</li><li>Include high fiber plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, and tofu in meals and snacks.</li><li>Choose protein-rich veggies like broccoli, brussels sprouts, and asparagus.</li><li>Snack on nuts and seeds.</li><li>Take the stairs instead of the elevator.</li><li>Walk or bike to work if possible.</li><li>Park the car as far from the front door as possible</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/water.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Mint leaves in water.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Adding mint to water can help prevent constipation.&nbsp;</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"when-to-seek-help-for-constipation-after-gastric-sleeve\">When to Seek Help For Constipation After Gastric Sleeve?</h1><p>Constipation after gastric sleeve can last anywhere from several hours to days. When constipation lasts more than three days and becomes increasingly uncomfortable, patients should seek medical help. Bariatric health professionals can help to recommend appropriate over the counter treatments such as stool softeners, laxative, and suppositories.</p><p>Always follow up with a bariatric health provider before using over the counter treatments to ensure that they are safe to use.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/pills.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Pills in their package. \" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Over-the-counter treatments can be used to help constipation but you should ask your health care provider before use.&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/constipation-after-gastric-sleeve/","uuid":"dd5f7739-19aa-4279-8c75-64c0409b61f5","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5e0028170b127c00386d6c56"}},{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5df13e399429d400388ad013","title":"Gastric Sleeve Hair Loss: What You Can Expect","slug":"gastric-sleeve-hair-loss","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/Title-Photo--1-.jpg","excerpt":"Gastric sleeve hair loss is a common side effect of the procedure. Here’s a close look at why gastric sleeve hair loss occurs, what to expect, and how to treat it.","custom_excerpt":"Gastric sleeve hair loss is a common side effect of the procedure. Here’s a close look at why gastric sleeve hair loss occurs, what to expect, and how to treat it.","created_at_pretty":"11 December, 2019","published_at_pretty":"25 December, 2019","updated_at_pretty":"12 April, 2020","created_at":"2019-12-11T14:06:33.000-05:00","published_at":"2019-12-25T07:00:00.000-05:00","updated_at":"2020-04-12T14:14:01.000-04:00","meta_title":"Gastric Sleeve Hair Loss: What to Expect","meta_description":"Gastric sleeve hair loss is a common side effect of surgery. Here’s a look at why hair loss occurs, what to expect, and how to treat it.","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Julia Rae Walker, RN, BSN, BA","slug":"julia","bio":"Julia is an experienced critical care nurse with a background in pediatric and adult patient populations. Her passion is helping patients maximize their quality of life.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/09/IMG_4714.jpeg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},{"name":"Gintas Antanavicius, MD, FACS, FASMBS","slug":"gintas","bio":"Dr. G is a co-founder of BariBuilder. A US-based expert surgeon with over 10 years of bariatric experience, he regularly publishes research in medical journals like SOARD, Obesity Surgery, etc.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2018/11/drgheadshot.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Julia Rae Walker, RN, BSN, BA","slug":"julia","bio":"Julia is an experienced critical care nurse with a background in pediatric and adult patient populations. Her passion is helping patients maximize their quality of life.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/09/IMG_4714.jpeg","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Hair Loss","slug":"hair-loss","description":"Articles about hair loss and weight loss surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/alex-suprun-23Q5vIi_jCA-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"Gastric sleeve surgery, or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG)\n[https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/sleeve-gastrectomy/about/pac-20385183]\n, helps people lose excess weight. However, it is not uncommon to shed more than\npounds after surgery. Gastric sleeve hair loss is a common side effect of the\nprocedure. Here’s a close look at why gastric sleeve hair loss occurs, what to\nexpect, and how to treat it.\n\nHow Hair Works\nMany people identify their hair as an important part of their physical\nself-image. While it is usually quite crucial to our perception of self, it is\nnot all that important to our bodies. In a healthy body, hair is often 90% in\nthe growth phase (anagen phase). The remaining 10% of hair follicles are in the\ndormant phase (telogen). Therefore, we are typically growing more hair than we\nare losing at any given period. Stress can throw this balance between anlagen\nand telogen off at any point.\n\n The following is a list of things\n[https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hair-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20372926] \nthat may affect the normal hair growth cycle:\n\n * Infection or illness\n * Hormonal changes\n * Pregnancy and postpartum\n * Surgery\n * Thyroid disorders\n * Some medications\n * Rapid weight loss\n * Nutrient deficiencies\n * Anorexia\n * Specific hair treatments and styles\n * Family history\n * Stressful life events\n\nHair can be a significant part of our identity. Hair loss can affect our\nself-image and can cause depression and low self-confidence.When we experience\nstress, loss of hair can be one of the first things that happen to us\nphysically. When it comes to supporting major body systems and organs such as\nyour heart, brain, and bones, hair health is put on the back burner.\n\nWhat Causes Gastric Sleeve Hair Loss?\nPeople who undergo gastric sleeve surgery are already at risk for two\nsignificant stressors that can cause substantial hair loss or telogen effluvium\n[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4606321/]. Surgery and rapid\nweight loss cause VSG hair loss in the early phase following surgery. When your\nbody experiences major stressors, a higher percentage of your hair switches from\nthe growth cycle to the dormant cycle, unfortunately, you cannot make hair that\nis in the dormant phase return to the growth phase. Therefore, you have to wait\nfor all of your dormant hair to fall out (usually 100-120 days\n[https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/telogen-effluvium-a-to-z]) before you see\nan improvement in hair loss.\n\nMost people lose around 100 hairs a day when they are in a healthy hair growth\ncycle. However, this number can sometimes triple in vertical sleeve gastrectomy\nhair loss patients. Fortunately, hair follicles are typically not damaged in VSG\nhair loss, so hair will grow back with proper nutritional support and continued\nhealth.\n\nMany gastric sleeve hair loss patients are at risk for nutrient deficiencies\nbecause of the restrictive surgical procedure performed on the stomach. In a\nvertical sleeve gastrectomy, the stomach is cut and stapled into a significantly\nsmaller pouch. Consequently, people who undergo VSG are unable to consume large\namounts of food at one time. By restricting food intake, nutrient deficiencies\ncan occur, especially if patients do not follow VSG nutritional guidelines\n[https://baribuilder.com/blog/vsg-diet-sleeve-gastrectomy/].\n\nVertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Hair Loss: How Long Will It Last?\nGastric sleeve patients typically start to experience hair loss 3 to 6 months\nfollowing surgery. This time frame makes sense based on the average growth phase\nof hair, in which dormant hair falls out after 100-120 days. The initial stress\nof surgery and rapid weight loss initiate a dramatic shift in the hair cycle.\nFortunately, hair loss typically does not last longer than six months unless a\nnutritional deficit is present. However, dietary deficiencies can occur in\npeople with gastric sleeve hair loss, so losing large amounts of hair can last\nlonger than six months.\n\nTime and patience usually resolve gastric sleeve hair loss unless an underlying\nnutritional deficiency or disease is present.Most bariatric surgeons assure\ntheir patients that with time, patience, healthy lifestyle choices, and proper\nnutritional intake, the hair will regrow after the body stabilizes. Concern that\nhair loss may be related to a nutritional deficiency may occur if a person\nexhibits any of the following:\n\n * Hair loss that lasts longer than one year following surgery\n * Hair loss that began later than six months following surgery\n * There has been greater rapid weight loss than expected\n * Difficulty eating and digesting \n * Non-compliance with diet and supplements\n * Low blood values for essential nutrients including ferritin, protein, and\n   zinc\n * Other symptoms related to a nutrient deficiency are present\n\nCan VSG Hair Loss Be Treated?\nGastric sleeve hair loss typically resolves on its own over time. While there is\nno magic pill or formula that ensures you do not experience VSG hair loss,\npatience, and a healthy diet usually resolve hair loss within six months of\nsurgery. There are specific steps you can take to help minimize the severity and\nduration of hair loss following gastric sleeve surgery.\n\n 1. Stay healthy - Illness is one of the leading causes of hair loss in people.\n    High fevers, infection, and unbalanced hormones can add stress to the body\n    and pull nutrients away from hair growth to maintain more essential body\n    functions.\n 2. Monitor your other health conditions - Most people that are candidates for\n    gastric sleeve surgery have other health conditions related to excess\n    weight. These conditions include Type 2 diabetes\n    [https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-and-diabetes/], high blood\n    pressure, and thyroid disorders. Taking medication as prescribed, getting\n    regular testing, and following your plan of care is essential to maintaining\n    your overall health.\n 3. Follow your VSG diet - Cheating on your gastric sleeve diet\n    [https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-diet-cheating/] can have\n    greater health consequences than VSG hair loss. Carefully watch your diet to\n    ensure your success and overall health following surgery.\n 4. Take supplements as recommended - To prevent nutrient deficiencies, it is\n    vital to fuel your body with essential nutrients for optimal health and\n    wellness.\n 5. Exercise regularly - Physical activity helps prevent weight gain, increases\n    metabolism, boosts energy, and improves your overall health and wellbeing.\n 6. Follow up with your health care team regularly - Your health care team may\n    include your bariatric surgeon, other medical specialists, nutritionist,\n    therapist, etc.\n 7. Reduce physical and chemical harm to your hair - Some particular hairstyles\n    and treatments are harsh on hair and can even cause damage to the follicle.\n    Find a hairstyle that supports your hair health and your self-image.\n\nSupplements help prevent nutrient deficiencies and may reduce the severity of\nVSG hair loss.What Nutrients Are Essential For Hair Growth and Repair After\nGastric Sleeve?\nMany people typically turn to nutrition to try to prevent VSG hair loss.\nAlthough gastric sleeve hair loss may be inevitable, adding certain nutrients to\nyour diet may contribute to your overall hair health. Iron, zinc, and protein\nare key nutrients that have demonstrated a correlation with hair health\n[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/].\n\n * Iron - 45% of bariatric patients have an iron deficiency\n   [https://baribuilder.com/blog/wls-patients-need-personalized-bariatric-vitamin-regimens/]\n   . Many people with vertical sleeve gastrectomy hair loss have responded well\n   to iron supplementation. Iron deficiency is the most common nutrient\n   deficiency in the world and has been directly correlated with hair loss.\n   Although we know iron deficiency plays a crucial role in hair growth, we do\n   not understand how supplemental iron functions in the hair cycle. Most\n   gastric sleeve hair loss patients will take an iron supplement. However,\n   foods such as spinach, broccoli, sweet potato, beef, chicken, and shrimp are\n   also high in iron.\n * Zinc - This essential mineral is critical for supporting the function of\n   hundreds of enzymes and gene regulation. Zinc deficiency is a well-known\n   contributing factor [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6380979/] \n   to hair loss. This essential element must be supplied outside of the body, as\n   we cannot make it ourselves. Therefore, most people take it as a supplement,\n   but it is also found in meat and fish. However, zinc toxicity can occur in\n   people who do not have a zinc deficiency and are taking zinc supplements.\n   Pain, vomiting, and diarrhea are symptoms of zinc toxicity. This is a\n   dangerous complication of taking too much zinc.\n * Protein - Consuming at least 60-80 grams of protein following surgery can\n   help decrease the severity of gastric sleeve hair loss. Many patients have\n   difficulty meeting their protein needs following surgery. However, it is\n   essential to meet these protein requirements for your overall health.\n   Although you may not be able to consume larger meals following surgery,\n   eating foods high in protein can help meet your dietary needs. These foods\n   include lean meats, cottage cheese, and nuts.\n\nFollow your personalized bariatric vitamin regimen\n[https://shop.baribuilder.com/] to maintain optimal health and wellbeing.There\nare also other vitamins and minerals that may play a role in preventing hair\nloss. Vitamin A, B-6, folate, and calcium may all help with gastric sleeve hair\nloss. It is important to note there are no definitive answers as to how\nnutrients help hair health, and to what extent they help.\n\nHair loss is an expected side effect after vertical sleeve gastrectomy. If you\nare concerned about gastric sleeve hair loss, talk with your health care\nprovider to determine if your hair loss is more than an expected side effect of\ngastric sleeve surgery. It is important to identify if there is a more serious\ncause, such as a nutrient deficiency.","html":"<p>Gastric sleeve surgery, or <a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/sleeve-gastrectomy/about/pac-20385183\">vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG)</a>, helps people lose excess weight. However, it is not uncommon to shed more than pounds after surgery. Gastric sleeve hair loss is a common side effect of the procedure. Here’s a close look at why gastric sleeve hair loss occurs, what to expect, and how to treat it.</p><h1 id=\"how-hair-works\">How Hair Works</h1><p>Many people identify their hair as an important part of their physical self-image. While it is usually quite crucial to our perception of self, it is not all that important to our bodies. In a healthy body, hair is often 90% in the growth phase (anagen phase). The remaining 10% of hair follicles are in the dormant phase (telogen). Therefore, we are typically growing more hair than we are losing at any given period. Stress can throw this balance between anlagen and telogen off at any point.</p><p> The following is a<a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hair-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20372926\"> list of things</a> that may affect the normal hair growth cycle:</p><ul><li>Infection or illness</li><li>Hormonal changes</li><li>Pregnancy and postpartum</li><li>Surgery</li><li>Thyroid disorders</li><li>Some medications</li><li>Rapid weight loss</li><li>Nutrient deficiencies</li><li>Anorexia</li><li>Specific hair treatments and styles</li><li>Family history</li><li>Stressful life events</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/Women-Laughing.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Two women on a beach smiling.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Hair can be a significant part of our identity. Hair loss can affect our self-image and can cause depression and low self-confidence.</em></figcaption></figure><p>When we experience stress, loss of hair can be one of the first things that happen to us physically. When it comes to supporting major body systems and organs such as your heart, brain, and bones, hair health is put on the back burner.</p><h1 id=\"what-causes-gastric-sleeve-hair-loss\">What Causes Gastric Sleeve Hair Loss?</h1><p>People who undergo gastric sleeve surgery are already at risk for two significant stressors that can cause substantial hair loss or <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4606321/\">telogen effluvium</a>. Surgery and rapid weight loss cause VSG hair loss in the early phase following surgery. When your body experiences major stressors, a higher percentage of your hair switches from the growth cycle to the dormant cycle, unfortunately, you cannot make hair that is in the dormant phase return to the growth phase. Therefore, you have to wait for all of your dormant hair to fall out (usually <a href=\"https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/telogen-effluvium-a-to-z\">100-120 days</a>) before you see an improvement in hair loss.</p><p>Most people lose around 100 hairs a day when they are in a healthy hair growth cycle. However, this number can sometimes triple in vertical sleeve gastrectomy hair loss patients. Fortunately, hair follicles are typically not damaged in VSG hair loss, so hair will grow back with proper nutritional support and continued health.</p><p>Many gastric sleeve hair loss patients are at risk for nutrient deficiencies because of the restrictive surgical procedure performed on the stomach. In a vertical sleeve gastrectomy, the stomach is cut and stapled into a significantly smaller pouch. Consequently, people who undergo VSG are unable to consume large amounts of food at one time. By restricting food intake, nutrient deficiencies can occur, especially if patients do not follow <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/vsg-diet-sleeve-gastrectomy/\">VSG nutritional guidelines</a>.</p><h1 id=\"vertical-sleeve-gastrectomy-hair-loss-how-long-will-it-last\">Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Hair Loss: How Long Will It Last?</h1><p>Gastric sleeve patients typically start to experience hair loss 3 to 6 months following surgery. This time frame makes sense based on the average growth phase of hair, in which dormant hair falls out after 100-120 days. The initial stress of surgery and rapid weight loss initiate a dramatic shift in the hair cycle. Fortunately, hair loss typically does not last longer than six months unless a nutritional deficit is present. However, dietary deficiencies can occur in people with gastric sleeve hair loss, so losing large amounts of hair can last longer than six months.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/Calendar.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Woman holding up a dated calendar.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Time and patience usually resolve gastric sleeve hair loss unless an underlying nutritional deficiency or disease is present.</em></figcaption></figure><p>Most bariatric surgeons assure their patients that with time, patience, healthy lifestyle choices, and proper nutritional intake, the hair will regrow after the body stabilizes. Concern that hair loss may be related to a nutritional deficiency may occur if a person exhibits any of the following:</p><ul><li>Hair loss that lasts longer than one year following surgery</li><li>Hair loss that began later than six months following surgery</li><li>There has been greater rapid weight loss than expected</li><li>Difficulty eating and digesting </li><li>Non-compliance with diet and supplements</li><li>Low blood values for essential nutrients including ferritin, protein, and zinc</li><li>Other symptoms related to a nutrient deficiency are present</li></ul><h1 id=\"can-vsg-hair-loss-be-treated\">Can VSG Hair Loss Be Treated?</h1><p>Gastric sleeve hair loss typically resolves on its own over time. While there is no magic pill or formula that ensures you do not experience VSG hair loss, patience, and a healthy diet usually resolve hair loss within six months of surgery. There are specific steps you can take to help minimize the severity and duration of hair loss following gastric sleeve surgery.</p><ol><li>Stay healthy - Illness is one of the leading causes of hair loss in people. High fevers, infection, and unbalanced hormones can add stress to the body and pull nutrients away from hair growth to maintain more essential body functions.</li><li>Monitor your other health conditions - Most people that are candidates for gastric sleeve surgery have other health conditions related to excess weight. These conditions include <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-and-diabetes/\">Type 2 diabetes</a>, high blood pressure, and thyroid disorders. Taking medication as prescribed, getting regular testing, and following your plan of care is essential to maintaining your overall health.</li><li>Follow your VSG diet - <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-sleeve-diet-cheating/\">Cheating on your gastric sleeve diet</a> can have greater health consequences than VSG hair loss. Carefully watch your diet to ensure your success and overall health following surgery.</li><li>Take supplements as recommended - To prevent nutrient deficiencies, it is vital to fuel your body with essential nutrients for optimal health and wellness.</li><li>Exercise regularly - Physical activity helps prevent weight gain, increases metabolism, boosts energy, and improves your overall health and wellbeing.</li><li>Follow up with your health care team regularly - Your health care team may include your bariatric surgeon, other medical specialists, nutritionist, therapist, etc.</li><li>Reduce physical and chemical harm to your hair - Some particular hairstyles and treatments are harsh on hair and can even cause damage to the follicle. Find a hairstyle that supports your hair health and your self-image.</li></ol><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/Hair-Loss-pills-2.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Scrabble letter tiles and pill capsule bottes.\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><i>Supplements help prevent nutrient deficiencies and may reduce the severity of VSG hair loss.</i></figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"what-nutrients-are-essential-for-hair-growth-and-repair-after-gastric-sleeve\">What Nutrients Are Essential For Hair Growth and Repair After Gastric Sleeve?</h1><p>Many people typically turn to nutrition to try to prevent VSG hair loss. Although gastric sleeve hair loss may be inevitable, adding certain nutrients to your diet may contribute to your overall hair health. Iron, zinc, and protein are key nutrients that have demonstrated a <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/\">correlation with hair health</a>.</p><ul><li>Iron - <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/wls-patients-need-personalized-bariatric-vitamin-regimens/\">45% of bariatric patients have an iron deficiency</a>. Many people with vertical sleeve gastrectomy hair loss have responded well to iron supplementation. Iron deficiency is the most common nutrient deficiency in the world and has been directly correlated with hair loss. Although we know iron deficiency plays a crucial role in hair growth, we do not understand how supplemental iron functions in the hair cycle. Most gastric sleeve hair loss patients will take an iron supplement. However, foods such as spinach, broccoli, sweet potato, beef, chicken, and shrimp are also high in iron.</li><li>Zinc - This essential mineral is critical for supporting the function of hundreds of enzymes and gene regulation. Zinc deficiency is a <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6380979/\">well-known contributing factor</a> to hair loss. This essential element must be supplied outside of the body, as we cannot make it ourselves. Therefore, most people take it as a supplement, but it is also found in meat and fish. However, zinc toxicity can occur in people who do not have a zinc deficiency and are taking zinc supplements. Pain, vomiting, and diarrhea are symptoms of zinc toxicity. This is a dangerous complication of taking too much zinc.</li><li>Protein - Consuming at least 60-80 grams of protein following surgery can help decrease the severity of gastric sleeve hair loss. Many patients have difficulty meeting their protein needs following surgery. However, it is essential to meet these protein requirements for your overall health. Although you may not be able to consume larger meals following surgery, eating foods high in protein can help meet your dietary needs. These foods include lean meats, cottage cheese, and nuts.</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/Food-and-supplements.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"Spoon full of pill capsules with vegetables in the background. \" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption><em>Follow your </em><a href=\"https://shop.baribuilder.com/\"><em>personalized bariatric vitamin regimen</em></a><em> to maintain optimal health and wellbeing.</em></figcaption></figure><p>There are also other vitamins and minerals that may play a role in preventing hair loss. Vitamin A, B-6, folate, and calcium may all help with gastric sleeve hair loss. It is important to note there are no definitive answers as to how nutrients help hair health, and to what extent they help.</p><p>Hair loss is an expected side effect after vertical sleeve gastrectomy. If you are concerned about gastric sleeve hair loss, talk with your health care provider to determine if your hair loss is more than an expected side effect of gastric sleeve surgery. It is important to identify if there is a more serious cause, such as a nutrient deficiency.</p>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/gastric-sleeve-hair-loss/","uuid":"6f665944-c321-4678-8141-4a3b2bcd8e4e","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5df13e399429d400388ad013"}},{"node":{"id":"Ghost__Post__5dee9ed89429d400388acfab","title":"Gastric Sleeve vs. Gastric Bypass","slug":"gastric-sleeve-vs-gastric-bypass","featured":false,"feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/lose-weight-1968908_1920.jpg","excerpt":"There are many types of weight-loss surgery, known collectively as bariatric surgery. Gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy are two of the most common types of bariatric surgery in the United States. Here's what you need to know about them.","custom_excerpt":"There are many types of weight-loss surgery, known collectively as bariatric surgery. Gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy are two of the most common types of bariatric surgery in the United States. Here's what you need to know about them.","created_at_pretty":"09 December, 2019","published_at_pretty":"18 December, 2019","updated_at_pretty":"12 April, 2020","created_at":"2019-12-09T14:22:00.000-05:00","published_at":"2019-12-18T07:00:00.000-05:00","updated_at":"2020-04-12T14:15:19.000-04:00","meta_title":"Gastric Sleeve vs. Gastric Bypass","meta_description":"There are many types of weight-loss surgery. Gastric bypass and gastric sleeve are the most common in the U.S. Here's what you need to know about each.","og_description":null,"og_image":null,"og_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"twitter_image":null,"twitter_title":null,"authors":[{"name":"Morgyn Clair, MS, RDN","slug":"morgyn","bio":"Morgyn is an RD specializing in weight management and surgical weight loss. She has a master's in clinical nutrition and dietetics, and currently works as a clinical dietitian in a physician’s office.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/10/morgyn.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},{"name":"Gintas Antanavicius, MD, FACS, FASMBS","slug":"gintas","bio":"Dr. G is a co-founder of BariBuilder. A US-based expert surgeon with over 10 years of bariatric experience, he regularly publishes research in medical journals like SOARD, Obesity Surgery, etc.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2018/11/drgheadshot.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null}],"primary_author":{"name":"Morgyn Clair, MS, RDN","slug":"morgyn","bio":"Morgyn is an RD specializing in weight management and surgical weight loss. She has a master's in clinical nutrition and dietetics, and currently works as a clinical dietitian in a physician’s office.","profile_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/10/morgyn.png","twitter":null,"facebook":null,"website":null},"primary_tag":{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},"tags":[{"name":"Gastric Sleeve","slug":"gastric-sleeve","description":"Articles about gastric sleeve surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/artur-tumasjan-qLzWvcQq-V8-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"},{"name":"Gastric Bypass","slug":"gastric-bypass","description":"Articles about gastric bypass surgery","feature_image":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2020/04/national-cancer-institute-KrsoedfRAf4-unsplash.jpg","meta_description":null,"meta_title":null,"visibility":"public"}],"plaintext":"There are many types of weight-loss surgery, known collectively as bariatric\nsurgery\n[https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/bariatric-surgery/about/pac-20394258]\n. Bariatric procedures alter the digestive system to induce weight loss, which\ncan help patients decrease risks associated with overweight and obesity. This\narticle aims to teach you what you need to know about gastric sleeve vs. gastric\nbypass,two of the most common types of bariatric surgery in the United States.\n\nThere are several things to consider when deciding which metabolic surgery is\nright for you. Your starting weight and your metabolic disease profile may have\nan impact on what operation works better for you. For example, if you have\nsevere heartburn issues and diabetes, gastric bypass may be a better choice.\n\nGastric sleeve surgery is completed in approximately 1 hour on average. Gastric\nBypass takes 2-3 hours on average.Gastric Sleeve\nThe sleeve gastrectomy, also called vertical sleeve gastrectomy or VSG, is a\nbariatric procedure that essentially decreases the size of the stomach to induce\nmetabolic changes. There are a few ways in which a sleeve results in weight\nloss.\n\nDuring a gastric sleeve operation a surgeon removes most of the stomach, leaving\na small sleeve-shaped section that is closed with staples. This results in a\nreduced amount of food that can fit in the smaller, new stomach. One effect of\nthis surgery is that patients feel full sooner and are able to eat less food at\none time.\n\nThe second way a sleeve gastrectomy induces weight loss is through a change in\nhormones. By taking out part of the stomach, gut hormones are changed to \ninfluence metabolism\n[https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/bariatric-surgery/types]\n. These hormones have an impact on hunger, feelings of fullness, and blood sugar\ncontrol.\n\nThis type of surgery generally cannot be reversed because a portion of the\nstomach is permanently removed.\n\nBoth types of surgery can help patients live a more active, healthy lifestyle.\nRoux-en-Y Gastric Bypass\nThe Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is often referred to as “gastric bypass.” There are \ngastric restriction and malabsorption\n[https://www.upmc.com/services/bariatrics/surgery-process/surgery-options/malabsorptive] \nthat result from this procedure.\n\nThere are two parts to this procedure, both of which are done in the same\noperation. First, surgeons create a small stomach pouch that is approximately 1\nto 2 ounces. The second stage of the procedure involves rerouting of the\nintestines. This part of the procedure causes food and digestive enzymes to meet\nfurther down in the digestive tract.\n\nGastric bypass leads to weight loss by a few different mechanisms. First, the\nnew stomach pouch is much smaller and allows for only small amounts of food at\none time. Second, there is less digestion of food by the small pouch and\nrerouted intestines. Fewer calories and nutrients are absorbed. Lastly, the\nalteration of anatomy induces hormonal changes\n[https://www.hormone.org/diseases-and-conditions/bariatric-surgery#:~:targetText=Studies%20show%20that%20bariatric%20surgery,%E2%80%94%E2%80%9Cthe%20hunger%20hormone.%E2%80%9D&targetText=Hormones%20play%20a%20part%20in,reactions%20to%20stress%20and%20injury.] \nin the gut that are involved in satiety, hunger, and blood sugar control.\n\nResearching the pros and cons of each type of surgery is a great way to be\nprepared for your bariatric consultation.Benefits and Risks\nOverall, studies comparing gastric bypass vs. gastric sleeve have found very\nsimilar health improvement for a variety of conditions including diabetes,\nhypertension, sleep apnea, and most other obesity-related health problems.\nHowever, there are some key differences to take into account.\n\nAdvantages of gastric sleeve:\n\n * Estimated average weight loss is approximately 60-70%\n   [https://www.bariatric-surgery-source.com/gastric-sleeve-vs-bypass.html]of\n   excess body weight\n * No rerouting of intestines\n * No reconnections of intestines, no risk for marginal ulcers\n * Less concern for vitamin and mineral deficiencies\n   [https://baribuilder.com/blog/wls-patients-need-personalized-bariatric-vitamin-regimens/]\n\nDisadvantages of gastric sleeve:\n\n * Not as effective in super obesity\n * Possibility for gastric reflux\n\nAdvantages of gastric bypass:\n\n * Estimated average weight loss is approximately 70-80% of excess body weight\n * May resolve refractory GERD\n * May resolve refractory diabetes type 2\n   [https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-bypass-and-diabetes/] better than\n   sleeve\n\nDisadvantages of gastric bypass:\n\n * Must be diligent about vitamin and mineral regimen\n * More likely to experience dumping syndrome\n   [https://baribuilder.com/blog/bariatric-dumping/]\n * More likely to experience marginal ulcers and internal hernias\n\nYour doctor will review a comprehensive health history to determine which\nprocedure will best benefit each unique patient.Take Home Message\nWhen deciding which surgery is right for you, it’s important to have complete\nawareness of the pros, cons, and indications for each type. In summary, both\ntypes of metabolic surgery\n[https://asmbs.org/patients/bariatric-surgery-procedures] induce weight loss\neither by restricting the amount of food the stomach can hold or by causing\nmalabsorption of nutrients, or a combination of both. Both procedures also\ninfluence hormones and cause shifts in perceived hunger and fullness.\n\nThe bottom line: you should work with your surgeon to figure out which is the\nbest surgery for you and your unique medical history.","html":"<p>There are many types of weight-loss surgery, known collectively as <a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/bariatric-surgery/about/pac-20394258\">bariatric surgery</a>. Bariatric procedures alter the digestive system to induce weight loss, which can help patients decrease risks associated with overweight and obesity. This article aims to teach you what you need to know about gastric sleeve vs. gastric bypass,two of the most common types of bariatric surgery in the United States.</p><p>There are several things to consider when deciding which metabolic surgery is right for you. Your starting weight and your metabolic disease profile may have an impact on what operation works better for you. For example, if you have severe heartburn issues and diabetes, gastric bypass may be a better choice.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/suregery.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"surgery\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Gastric sleeve surgery is completed in approximately 1 hour on average. Gastric Bypass takes 2-3 hours on average.</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"gastric-sleeve\">Gastric Sleeve</h1><p>The sleeve gastrectomy, also called vertical sleeve gastrectomy or VSG, is a bariatric procedure that essentially decreases the size of the stomach to induce metabolic changes. There are a few ways in which a sleeve results in weight loss.</p><p>During a gastric sleeve operation a surgeon removes most of the stomach, leaving a small sleeve-shaped section that is closed with staples. This results in a reduced amount of food that can fit in the smaller, new stomach. One effect of this surgery is that patients feel full sooner and are able to eat less food at one time.</p><p>The second way a sleeve gastrectomy induces weight loss is through a change in hormones. By taking out part of the stomach, gut hormones are changed to <a href=\"https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/bariatric-surgery/types\">influence metabolism</a>. These hormones have an impact on hunger, feelings of fullness, and blood sugar control.</p><p>This type of surgery generally cannot be reversed because a portion of the stomach is permanently removed.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/peeople-drinking-beer.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"active lifestyle\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Both types of surgery can help patients live a more active, healthy lifestyle.</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"roux-en-y-gastric-bypass\">Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass</h1><p>The Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is often referred to as “gastric bypass.” There are <a href=\"https://www.upmc.com/services/bariatrics/surgery-process/surgery-options/malabsorptive\">gastric restriction and malabsorption</a> that result from this procedure.</p><p>There are two parts to this procedure, both of which are done in the same operation. First, surgeons create a small stomach pouch that is approximately 1 to 2 ounces. The second stage of the procedure involves rerouting of the intestines. This part of the procedure causes food and digestive enzymes to meet further down in the digestive tract.</p><p>Gastric bypass leads to weight loss by a few different mechanisms. First, the new stomach pouch is much smaller and allows for only small amounts of food at one time. Second, there is less digestion of food by the small pouch and rerouted intestines. Fewer calories and nutrients are absorbed. Lastly, the alteration of anatomy induces <a href=\"https://www.hormone.org/diseases-and-conditions/bariatric-surgery#:~:targetText=Studies%20show%20that%20bariatric%20surgery,%E2%80%94%E2%80%9Cthe%20hunger%20hormone.%E2%80%9D&amp;targetText=Hormones%20play%20a%20part%20in,reactions%20to%20stress%20and%20injury.\">hormonal changes</a> in the gut that are involved in satiety, hunger, and blood sugar control.</p><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/glasses.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"research\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Researching the pros and cons of each type of surgery is a great way to be prepared for your bariatric consultation.</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"benefits-and-risks\">Benefits and Risks</h1><p>Overall, studies comparing gastric bypass vs. gastric sleeve have found very similar health improvement for a variety of conditions including diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and most other obesity-related health problems. However, there are some key differences to take into account.</p><p><strong>Advantages of gastric sleeve:</strong></p><ul><li>Estimated average weight loss is approximately <a href=\"https://www.bariatric-surgery-source.com/gastric-sleeve-vs-bypass.html\">60-70%</a>of excess body weight</li><li>No rerouting of intestines</li><li>No reconnections of intestines, no risk for marginal ulcers</li><li>Less concern for <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/wls-patients-need-personalized-bariatric-vitamin-regimens/\">vitamin and mineral deficiencies</a></li></ul><p><strong>Disadvantages of gastric sleeve:</strong></p><ul><li>Not as effective in super obesity</li><li>Possibility for gastric reflux</li></ul><p><strong>Advantages of gastric bypass:</strong></p><ul><li>Estimated average weight loss is approximately 70-80% of excess body weight</li><li>May resolve refractory GERD</li><li>May resolve <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/gastric-bypass-and-diabetes/\">refractory diabetes type 2</a> better than sleeve</li></ul><p><strong>Disadvantages of gastric bypass:</strong></p><ul><li>Must be diligent about vitamin and mineral regimen</li><li>More likely to experience <a href=\"https://baribuilder.com/blog/bariatric-dumping/\">dumping syndrome</a></li><li>More likely to experience marginal ulcers and internal hernias</li></ul><figure class=\"kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption\"><img src=\"https://blog.baribuilder.com/content/images/2019/12/doctor.jpg\" class=\"kg-image\" alt=\"doctor\" loading=\"lazy\"><figcaption>Your doctor will review a comprehensive health history to determine which procedure will best benefit each unique patient.</figcaption></figure><h1 id=\"take-home-message\">Take Home Message</h1><p>When deciding which surgery is right for you, it’s important to have complete awareness of the pros, cons, and indications for each type. In summary, <a href=\"https://asmbs.org/patients/bariatric-surgery-procedures\">both types of metabolic surgery</a> induce weight loss either by restricting the amount of food the stomach can hold or by causing malabsorption of nutrients, or a combination of both. Both procedures also influence hormones and cause shifts in perceived hunger and fullness.</p><p>The bottom line: you should work with your surgeon to figure out which is the best surgery for you and your unique medical history.</p>","url":"https://blog.baribuilder.com/gastric-sleeve-vs-gastric-bypass/","uuid":"a33cbc88-d0a9-4872-8802-c16452a693e8","page":null,"codeinjection_foot":null,"codeinjection_head":null,"codeinjection_styles":null,"comment_id":"5dee9ed89429d400388acfab"}}]}},"pageContext":{"isCreatedByStatefulCreatePages":false,"slug":"gastric-sleeve","limit":12,"skip":24,"numberOfPages":4,"humanPageNumber":3,"prevPageNumber":2,"nextPageNumber":4,"previousPagePath":"/blog/tag/gastric-sleeve/page/2/","nextPagePath":"/blog/tag/gastric-sleeve/page/4/"}}