Frequently Asked Questions

Weight loss surgery works through different methods, including restrictive procedures like gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric bypass. These are performed laparoscopically, using small incisions for faster recovery. Another approach involves malabsorptive procedures like the duodenal switch, also done laparoscopically.

These methods reduce hunger and food intake, with gastric banding using an adjustable silicone band around the stomach to limit food consumption. Sleeve gastrectomy involves removing about 70% of the stomach permanently, affecting hunger hormones like ghrelin and improving sugar metabolism.

Gastric bypass reduces stomach size and alters intestine absorption, promoting long-term weight loss. Dr. Marina Kurian performs these procedures and offers revisions, emphasizing that each patient’s success varies. Videos explaining these procedures are available on her website for more information.

A lot of times patients wanna know exactly how much they can lose. With gastric banding, you can see up to about a 50% reduction of the excess weight or the weight above your ideal body weight. With a sleeve gastrectomy, we see about 60% reduction. And with a gastric bypass, it can be up to 70% reduction of the excess weight. We’re talking about sustained durable weight loss and helping patients stay successful on their weight loss journey.

There’s an exciting option called the gastric balloon for weight reduction, suitable for those who don’t qualify for weight loss surgery but need to lose 30 to 50 pounds or more. This method can even benefit individuals weighing 600 to 700 pounds, aiming to reduce risks associated with surgery. The procedure is endoscopic, involving sedation as we insert a balloon into the stomach, which is then filled with saline. It remains there for six months, helping patients lose 20 to 40% of their excess weight. A supportive diet ensures long-term weight maintenance before the balloon is removed.

Many insurance plans do cover weight loss surgery, and we participate with several of them. These plans do require a dietary and psychological evaluation before surgery.

After surgery, patients follow a specialized diet that starts with 10 days to two weeks of liquids, followed by 10 to 14 days of pureed foods to ensure a smooth recovery without complications.

Post-surgery, maintaining a healthy and mindful diet is crucial. Focus on lean proteins like meat, fish, chicken, and plenty of fruits and vegetables for long-term success. Vegetarians can opt for beans along with fruits and veggies. Avoid processed foods from packages, as they aren’t conducive to long-term health and weight management.

View the surgery as a tool that reduces hunger and helps control portion sizes, enabling you to stick to a healthier diet plan effectively.

Weight loss surgeries, like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, can lead to initial side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and dumping syndrome, where fatty foods pass quickly through the digestive system, causing cramping, diarrhea, and nausea.

These procedures also carry risks of complications like leaks, bleeding, and infections, although these occur infrequently under my care. It’s crucial to stay vigilant post-surgery and contact your surgeon promptly if you experience any concerns. Regular follow-up ensures we can manage any issues and support your successful recovery journey.

Obesity is recognized as a chronic disease, often requiring revisions to weight loss procedures for various reasons. Weight regain can occur due to lifestyle changes or anatomical issues from the original surgery. Dr. Marina Kurian offers solutions such as dietary counseling, medications, or revising the procedure itself to address complications like ulcers or reflux. With extensive experience in weight loss surgery, Dr. Kurian helps patients nationwide find the best path forward. If you’re considering a revision, she welcomes you to her practice and looks forward to assisting you.