Advanced Laparoscopic Specialists Offer Hope

By Marci Nielsen


Obesity is a condition that affects millions of people. It also contributes to many other disorders. New York surgeons on staff at Advanced Laparoscopic Specialists perform gastric by-pass surgery as one part of a weight loss program. Other trained specialists and former patients offer additional support to make the treatment a long-term solution.

Gastric by-pass surgery is considered cosmetic or frivolous by many. However, this method of reducing the functional size of the stomach and thereby reducing its capacity is a lifesaver for those who need extreme measures to restore health. People who carry one hundred pounds or more of surplus weight are susceptible to other health problems. These include hypertension and cardiac disease, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea. All of these disorders can be life-threatening, and all negatively impact a person's quality of life.

Individuals who are severely overweight may be unable to get sufficient exercise, which is a key component of most successful weight-loss programs. Muscles need exercise to maintain tone, and it is muscle fibers that burn calories more efficiently than other tissue. Without exercise, more calories are stored as fat instead of being burned for energy. Without exercise, digestion is compromised. So is circulation of both blood and lymph, leadong to a weakened immune system that leaves a person vulnerable to other illnesses.

Excess weight places undue stress on feet and joints, making it hard or impossible for severely overweight people to walk freely, much less engage in more vigorous activities. Not being able to exercise makes gaining weight easier than ever. Weight gain is further accelerated if there are hormonal issues. Poor food choices and eating habits also contribute to overweight. In the US, obesity is second only to smoking as a leading cause of death from bad habits. In fact, being sedentary is called 'the new smoking' by health professionals.

Gastric by-pass is done with endoscopes (metal rods that allow lights, cameras, and implements to be inserted through tiny incisions). It is one of many operations under the laparoscopic surgery umbrella. Endoscopy is safer than open surgery, since there is less chance of infection because of smaller incisions. There is also less pain, less scarring, and a much shorter recovery time.

This form of surgery is less invasive and stressful. People whose bad health makes them poor candidates for conventional surgical procedures can benefit from laparoscopic techniques. These techniques have lowered the risks associated with gastric by-pass, making it even more acceptable as a weight-control option.

The surgery is combined with extensive pre- and post-op counseling and support. Potential patients attend seminars that educate them on the procedure as well as ways to successfully keep weight off for the long run. Nutritionists and dietitians are on staff to help people commit to lifestyle changes and to learn how to form better eating habits. Support groups made up of counselors and former patients help people set goals and implement measures that keep the pounds from coming back.

This personalized approach is key to the success of the program. Being informed on what to expect and having support after the operation helps people get the maximum benefit of the surgery and enjoy a new life free from obesity.




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