12/Aug/2023

Losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be a challenging endeavor. For some, a more effective route to sustainable weight loss is through bariatric surgery. One of the most popular procedures is the Gastric Sleeve surgery. However, in certain cases, patients may require a revision from a Gastric Sleeve. This post delves into the primary options for such revisions while shedding light on what each procedure entails.

Why Revisions are Required After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric Sleeve surgery promotes weight loss by reducing the size of the stomach, thus limiting food intake and creating a feeling of fullness. However, there can be instances where weight loss plateaus, or health complications arise. In such cases, weight loss revision surgery may be necessary.

Gastric Sleeve to Gastric Bypass Revision

The Gastric Bypass is among the most common surgeries used for Gastric Sleeve revisions. This operation involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. The Gastric Bypass helps in weight loss by simultaneously reducing the size of the stomach and decreasing nutrient absorption, thereby doubling the weight loss impact.

Gastric Sleeve to Duodenal Switch Revision

Duodenal Switch is another form of revision surgery that combines the advantages of both restrictive and malabsorptive procedures. The surgery involves removing a part of the stomach to make it smaller (like the Gastric Sleeve), then rerouting the intestine (similar to the Gastric Bypass). The Duodenal Switch can result in significant weight loss due to its combination of food restriction and decreased nutrient absorption.

Gastric Sleeve to Gastric Band Surgery

Converting a Gastric Sleeve to a Gastric Band surgery involves placing a silicon band around the upper part of the stomach. This band creates a small pouch, which slows down food consumption and creates an earlier sense of fullness. The Gastric Band is uniquely beneficial as it’s adjustable for increased or decreased restriction based on individual patient needs.

While a revision from a Gastric Sleeve may seem daunting, contemporary weight loss surgery options offer hope for continued progress on your weight loss journey. Each procedure has its unique benefits, and the choice largely depends on individual health profiles and objectives. Consulting with a professional bariatric surgeon is key to understanding and selecting the ideal revision surgery option for you.

Remember to maintain realistic expectations, have open conversations with your bariatric team, and follow proposed dietary guidelines and recommended lifestyle changes post-surgery. This way, you can make the most of your revision surgery and restart your journey towards a healthier future.

 


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01/Aug/2023

Aspiring for an enhanced physical appearance and improved self-esteem has been the catalyst behind many individuals’ decisions to undergo plastic surgery. Choosing this transformative journey is a significant decision, often triggered by various reasons ranging from medical requirements to aesthetic preferences. While one may have a clear-cut goal for their post-surgery expectations, preparing for the process is a critical aspect often overlooked. And at the helm of this essential preparation is the role of exercise. Integrated into the preoperative regimen, exercise can indeed pave the way for a smoother surgical journey and a speedier recovery.

1. Optimizing Physical Health:

First and foremost, exercise promotes general physical health, a significant prerequisite for any surgical procedure. A well-exercised body aids in maintaining a healthy weight, stabilizing blood pressure levels, and upholding optimal lung function. These vital signs are critical during surgery, and being in good shape can minimize potential risks.

2. Strengthening Immune System:

Exercise helps to bolster the immune system, which is vital when preparing for surgery. It aids in warding off potential pre and post-surgical infections while also favoring quick recovery. A robust immune system is beneficial for both the healing process and the long-term maintenance of surgical results.

3. Enhancing Mental Well-being:

Exercise has profound impacts on mental health – reducing stress, anxiety, and enhancing overall mood. These benefits are particularly significant when preparing for the emotional journey that plastic surgery often entails. Being in a positive mental state can provide the resilience needed to navigate the decision, the operation, and the recovery process.

4. Building Muscle Tone and Endurance:

In the realm of plastic surgery, certain procedures, like tummy tucks or liposuction, become more effective if the patient has good muscle tone. Regular exercise, particularly strength training, can help build this. Additionally, cardio exercises can build up endurance, crucial for coping with the rigors of surgery and recovery.

5. Supporting Faster Recovery:

Patients who exercise regularly usually have better blood flow, which can lead to faster wound healing, reduced postoperative discomfort, and quicker return to everyday activities. Their bodies are more attuned to physical strain and can recover from it more efficiently.

6. Encouraging Healthy Lifestyle:

Introducing exercise before surgery establishes a routine that can carry on into the post-operative period, fostering a continuum of healthy habits. This lifestyle shift may enhance not only the surgical results longevity but also the patient’s overall well-being long after the healing is complete.

The efficient and safe way to start an exercise regimen pre-surgery is to seek professional guidance. A healthcare provider or trained exercise professional can design an individualized plan, keeping in mind the specific type of surgery, the person’s current health, and fitness level.

Preparation is, after all, half the battle won!


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28/Jul/2023

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, has proven to be an effective tool in the fight against obesity. But, before you decide to proceed, there are some critical factors you should consider. From eligibility criteria to potential risks, life changes and more, here are the key aspects to consider before committing to weight loss surgery.

Eligibility:

1. Not everyone is a candidate: These types of surgeries are typically recommended for individuals who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 30 or higher with associated health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Meeting this criterion doesn’t automatically make you a candidate; other factors, such as psychological readiness, are considered as well.

The Preparation:

2. Pre-operative lifestyle changes: Before going under the knife, your healthcare provider may require you to adopt some lifestyle changes. This can include diet control, regular exercise, and quitting smoking. These changes aim to reduce surgery risks and prepare your body for the subsequent weight loss journey.

3. Psychological readiness: It’s vital not to discount the emotional implications of these surgeries. Many people struggle with changes to their appearance and the emotional baggage that often accompanies a significant lifestyle change. Mental health support is recommended before and after the surgery.

The Surgery and Beyond:

4. Procedure type: There are several types of weight loss surgeries, including gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. Each has its own benefits and risks. Discuss with your healthcare provider to understand which would work best for your unique situation.

5. Post-surgery lifestyle changes: After the surgery, you’ll need to sustain strict dietary rules and habits to maintain the weight loss. This usually includes consuming very small, nutrient-rich meals and avoiding sugary, high-fat diets. Regular exercise will also become essential.

6. Potential complications and risks: All surgeries have inherent risks. These can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, dumping syndrome, nutritional deficiencies, and more. Understanding these risks can assist you in making an informed decision.

7. Long-term follow-up: Long-term follow-up care is crucial for maintaining the weight loss and managing potential problems. These may include counseling, nutrition consulting, group support, and regular medical checkups.

You’re Not Alone:

8. Support systems: Successful weight loss is not just about the surgery. It’s about ongoing care, counseling, nutritional directives, and having a support system that understands your journey. A strong support system will ease the emotional and physical adjustments needed post-surgery.

9. Impact on relationships: The changes that follow bariatric surgery can affect personal relationships. Not everyone will understand or support your journey, and this can be an unexpected yet common struggle. Being aware of these possible changes can help prepare you for any shifts in your social dynamics.

 

Before proceeding with weight loss surgery, comprehensive understanding and preparedness are crucial. Discuss all these factors with your healthcare provider or a bariatric surgeon. Remember, the goal is not only shedding pounds but also gaining health, ensuring that weight loss surgery truly aligns with your expectation and readiness to embrace overall life changes.

If you are ready to move forward

CLICK HERE TO REQUEST A QUOTE


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26/Jul/2023

Losing a significant amount of weight is a monumental achievement that often leads to improved physical and mental wellbeing. However, there often lies one hurdle that impedes complete fulfillment: excess or loose skin. Plastic surgery after weight loss can be an excellent solution to transform your body, enhancing your appearance and boosting your overall confidence. This article sheds light on why you might want to consider plastic surgery after weight loss, the different types of procedures, and the candidacy.

Understanding The Need for Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss

Although your body may adapt to incremental weight loss by shrinking fat cells and muscles, after excessive weight loss, your skin might not be able to retract back to its initial size and tightness. This is majorly due to the degradation of collagen and elastin fibers that give our skin its elasticity. Factors such as age, genetics, the amount of weight lost, and the duration of obesity also affect skin elasticity. This often leads to sagging skin that can cause discomfort or pain, skin conditions, limited mobility, and dissatisfaction with appearance. Plastic surgery provides a solution to these issues, helping individuals complete their weight loss journey with improved physical aesthetics.

Types of Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss

Various procedures can tailor your body contours following significant weight loss. The type you choose depends on your specific needs and preferences, including the areas affected by sagging skin and your aesthetic goals.

1. Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): This involves the removal of excess skin from the abdomen. It can also repair disrupted muscles, offering a firmer and smoother abdominal profile.

2. Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): This procedure eliminates sagging skin under the upper arms that often resembles ‘bat wings.’

3. Thigh Lift: Excess skin around the thighs is removed, giving more proportionate contours to thighs and lower body.

4. Full abdomen lift: This procedure addresses your full abdominal area, including the lower abdomen, upper abdomen, and helps narrow the width of the waist removing excess skin and improving overall body shape.

5. Breast Lift (Mastopexy): This procedure addresses sagging, flattened breasts after substantial weight loss while uplifting and reshaping them.

It’s essential to understand that these procedures primarily focus on removing excess skin and do not remove significant fat deposits or serve as a weight-loss solution.

Candidate for Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss

Not everyone who has lost weight needs or is a candidate for plastic surgery. Suitable candidates usually:

– Have stabilized their weight loss. Surgeons suggest waiting at least 12-18 months after weight has stabilized before considering plastic surgery.

– Are in good health without any medical conditions that can impair healing.

– Possess a positive outlook and realistic expectations.

– Are non-smokers or ready to quit, as smoking can significantly increase the risk of complications and jeopardize healing.

Choosing plastic surgery after weight loss is a personal decision. It requires careful evaluation along with a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who understands your requirements and objectives. It’s crucial to remember that plastic surgery comes with its potential risks and benefits, and it is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. 

CLICK HERE TO REQUEST A QUOTE FOR PLASTIC SURGERY


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25/Jul/2023

Weight loss surgery, commonly known as bariatric surgery, can be a significant game-changer for those who struggle with obesity, especially when it’s complicated by conditions such as type-2 diabetes. One such surgical procedure in the armamentarium of weight management is the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG). Apart from aiding in considerable weight reduction, this surgery can also lead to a significant amelioration of diabetes. This blog post aims to delve into the benefits of Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy for diabetics.

Understanding Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy

Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) is a type of bariatric surgery in which approximately 80% of the patient’s stomach is surgically removed, leaving behind a small, vertical or ‘sleeve’-like pouch. This restricted stomach capacity encourages reduced food intake and promotes weight loss.

VSG and Diabetes: The Remarkable Link

While VSG is primarily performed to treat obesity, its impact as a metabolic surgery, specifically on resolving type-2 diabetes, is profoundly transformative. A landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine revealed that nearly 40% of individuals undergoing VSG witnessed complete remission of their diabetes.

1. Resolution and Improvement of Diabetes

After Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, most patients experience a significant improvement in their glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, a key determinant of long-term blood glucose control. According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, many individuals experience complete remission of diabetes, meaning their blood glucose levels become normal without the requirement of medication.

2. Improved Insulin Sensitivity

With weight loss post-VSG, the body’s ability to use insulin efficiently increases, thereby improving insulin sensitivity. This enhanced sensitivity diminishes the load on pancreatic beta cells that produce insulin, lowering insulin resistance, a common trait in type-2 diabetics.

3. Alterations in Gut Hormones

VSG modifies the gut hormones involved in hunger control, satiety, and blood glucose regulation. Notably, it increases the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that stimulates insulin release, and peptide YY, which controls appetite and induces satiety. These hormonal changes favor improved glycemic control.

4. Promotes Healthy Lifestyle Changes

After surgery, patients follow a nutritious, portion-controlled, low-calorie diet paired with regular exercise, which can aid in the maintenance of blood glucose levels. A healthy lifestyle is crucial in managing type-2 diabetes.

Reduction in Associated Comorbidities

VSG often results in the amelioration of other obesity-related conditions like sleep apnea, hypertension, and lipid abnormalities, further aiding patients in achieving an overall healthy state.

Less is More: VSG as a Less Invasive Option

Compared to other bariatric surgeries, VSG is less invasive, offering potential benefits like shorter hospital stay, quicker recovery, fewer nutritional deficiencies, and lower risk of surgical complications, making this surgical option more favorable.

Every patient is unique, so the decision to undergo VSG should be customized. A multidisciplinary approach involving dietitians, endocrinologists, and bariatric surgeons is the cornerstone of patient-centered care. If you’re considering bariatric surgery and suffer from diabetes, consult your healthcare provider to discuss if Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy could be the right option for you.

“This is an informational post, and should not substitute professional medical advice. It’s always essential to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice”

CLICK HERE TO REQUEST A QUOTE


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17/Jul/2023

When you start researching Weight Loss Surgery procedures, you will find a variety of routes to achieve your goals, and the most common usually are:

  1. Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)
  2. Lap band
  3. Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy

One major study from 2018 (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6652193/) shows that out of the three procedures, the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy was the safest and had lower risk of generating side effects.

In another study from 2021  (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamasurgery/fullarticle/2784823) the vertical sleeve also showed a fewest complications compared to the Gastric Bypass.

QUESTIONS?

If you have any further questions please contact our team by calling 760 600 9125 or email us at info@bcplastics.org and we will be glad to assist you.

CLICK HERE TO REQUEST A QUOTE


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24/Feb/2023

Most patients that come to Mexico for Weight loss Surgery due to the appeal of low prices. Mexico being close to the United States, and Tijuana being just across the Border from San Diego California, makes it easier for travel and reduces travel costs as well. 

Here are a few tips if you are planning on having surgery in Mexico:

Do your research

Doing research on surgical groups and previous patients can provide comfort and reassurance in making the right choice. you will find groups focused on Medical Tourism Safety. You can find patient groups online, patients usually share their unfiltered experience and can provide an unbiased recommendation of the surgical group you are interested in.

Check prices

More expensive is not always better, and the least expensive is not always better as well. Make sure that costs are transparent and are backed up by a professional surgical team, post operative care team, nutritionist and medical staff.

Contact your medical teams offices

You may get an idea of how your experience will be by contacting by phone or email. 

Know benefits or risks of each procedure

Weight loss surgery has benefits and risks depending on the type of procedure you are having done. Ask questions, make sure you are getting the right procedure for you, and move forward.

 

If you are considering weight loss surgery with BC Plastics and want to request a quote, you can request a quote by clicking on the link below.

CLICK HERE TO REQUEST A QUOTE


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06/Jul/2022

BC Plastics is a Company Located in Tijuana México, with surgery packages that covers every part of your weight loss journey.

Our team is committed to provide a transparent and safe environment for patients that are considering surgery through medical tourism. If you are looking for an all inclusive package with no hidden fees, BC Plastics can provide you with a quote for weight loss surgery. Depending on the type of procedure, your surgery can be performed even 2 weeks from your submission.

REQUESTING AN ASSESSMENT

You can check if you are a candidate for surgery by completing this 60 second form, or request an assessment from our bariatric team by completing our Weight Loss Surgery Assessment form. You can also contact our team by calling 760 600 9125 to have your assessment done over the phone. After completion, you will get an assessment and quote delivered to your email address in 1 to 3 business days.

SCHEDULING SURGERY

Your assessment will be sent to your email address with instructions to book a date, just follow the instructions to move forward.

PREOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

Once you schedule your surgery date we will provide you with your arrival and departure dates, preoperative instructions as well as a preoperative diet and medical requirements to move forward with surgery, instructions are clear and simple, however, patients can call our team by dialing the US NUMBER: 760 600 9125 for further assistance or to answer any question.

SURGERY AND DIET

Your surgery is performed in Tijuana MX and you will be provided with a post operative diet, as well as follow up on your diet and surgery from our Nutritionist and Bariatric Surgeon.

WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY PACKAGES

Our all inclusive packages will include your ground transportation, hotel stay, hospital stay, physician fees, anesthesia fees, post operative care (while in our care), nutritionist, and follow up with physician and nutritionist. You can look at our affordable weight loss surgery packages here.

QUESTIONS?

If you have any further questions please contact our team by calling 760 600 9125 or email us at info@bcplastics.org and we will be glad to assist you.

CLICK HERE TO REQUEST A QUOTE


01/Jul/2022



01/Jul/2022