Suffolk Surgical Group, P.C.
250 Yaphank Rd., Suite #7
East Patchogue, NY 11772
Phone: 1-866-422-1024
Fax: (631) 475-5602
Frequently Asked Questions
The ideal candidate for bariatric surgery suffers from morbid obesity, has realistic expectations of the procedure, and is committed to maintaining a healthy diet and exercise program. Morbid obesity is a condition that affects over 23 million Americans, and occurs when an individual is at least 100 pounds over his or her ideal body weight. Many victims of morbid obesity suffer from dramatically decreased physical abilities and very slow metabolisms, which make exercise and weight loss almost impossible. In such cases, bariatric surgery is a viable and often life-saving option for weight loss. It is important, however, for patients of bariatric surgery to understand that there is no “quick fix” for a condition as serious as morbid obesity. While the vast majority of patients experience dramatic weight loss within the first year of their bariatric surgery, a healthy lifestyle with a sensible diet and exercise routine are crucial to the success of their transformation.
No. Patients who have undergone laparoscopic gastric banding or gastric bypass surgery have reduced stomach sizes and take longer to digest food, so they feel just as sated as any other person would after a suitable meal. It is important to remember that this surgery is supposed to be viewed by the patient as a tool to help him or her revise eating habits, though, and that individuals may need time to be able to feel mentally satisfied after eating smaller portions than they are accustomed to.
Yes, within reason. An occasional glass of wine or cocktail is not going to harm you. It is important for bariatric patients to remember their weight loss goals, however. Alcohol is what nutritionists consider empty calories: it has no nutritional value, and actually can serve to break down beneficial vitamins and nutrients in the system. Therefore, while alcohol intake is not prohibited after weight loss surgery, it is counteractive to the goal of the procedure and should be carefully moderated.
This depends upon your body and its reaction to your weight loss, and how quickly you lose the weight. While it is common for people who undergo drastic weight loss to be left with excessive drooping skin, sometimes the skin is able to conform to the person’s new shape. While it may be difficult to defer your ideal results, it is best to wait at least a year after your bariatric surgery before considering another surgical procedure.
It is very possible that you will have to supplement your diet with vitamins and minerals after your bariatric surgery. Because you will feel full after eating much less food than you are accustomed to, it is sometimes difficult to get enough of the essential nutrients your body needs. Your doctor will regularly evaluate your eating habits and the levels of crucial vitamins and minerals in your body, and help you devise a supplement routine from there.