Is it safe to get a Gastric Sleeve in Mexico? YES!

When talking about life-changing medical procedures, Bariatric Surgery is in a league of its own! Among bariatric surgery procedures, the Gastric Sleeve is an option that for the right patient, can improve their lives and provide plenty of long-term benefits. Some of our former patients have even said that getting a gastric sleeve was a defining moment for the rest of their lives!

Do you think you may be a candidate for a gastric sleeve? Then consider coming to Tijuana for the surgery. Reasons? Well, a part of having some of the most experienced bariatric surgeons in the world, internationally-certified facilities that will aid in having a speedy recovery, an all-inclusive luxury experience, and a price tag that won’t make you break the bank, we want to make the possibility of YOU changing your life without risking your health a reality. Right here, in Tijuana, Mexico.  

So…Is it safe to get a gastric sleeve in Mexico? Short answer: Absolutely! Particularly if you choose the medical team here at VIDA.

Let us share with you the reasons why it is not only safe but wise, to choose to get a gastric sleeve here:

A solid base: Laparoscopic surgery in Mexico

While some patients will see great results from traditional bariatric surgery, Mexico has seen a rise in popularity in laparoscopic surgery. Less pain, less external scarring, and faster healing have made laparoscopic surgery a preferred method in many instances. These types of procedures have been done successfully in Mexico for years. In Tijuana, millions of patients come from all over the world to receive premium medical treatment. So, you can rest assured that Mexican doctors are experts in laparoscopic surgery.

VIDA Surgeons are Certified and true Experts

In Tijuana, Mexico, you’ll find that many clinics offer bariatric surgery. However, come to VIDA Bariatrics to be treated by the absolute best! Our bariatric experts are talented laparoscopic surgeons who genuinely care for their patient’s well-being and are the best at what they do! Our physicians are board-certified and members of some of the most important bariatric and laparoscopic medical societies in the region, such as the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO), American College of Surgeons (ACS) and the Mexican College of Surgery for Obesity and Metabolic Diseases. Having internationally accredited and experienced doctors are part of what ensures your safety, from the initial consultation to the last day of recovery and a lifetime of wellness.  

“We understand that our patients are people, not numbers, not profits, but people. They are human beings who have been dealing with obesity and need medical help to lose excess weight. We also understand that struggling with obesity goes far beyond the weight itself and that it is a disease that frustrates patients, their loved ones and affects their whole lives, increasing their risk of suffering from several obesity-related health conditions. I’ve made it my life’s mission to help every patient I see for a gastric sleeve or any bariatric procedure get remarkable results. Nothing makes me happier than a patient who loses weight, wins back his/her self-esteem and overall health. ”

Facilities that Exceed International Safety Standards.

At VIDA, we are honored to work with the best surgeons in the country and region, ensuring our patient’s health and safety. But we are also proud of our hospital and recovery center, both sure to exceed your safety expectations (as should be!). Our surgical facility, Cosmed Clinic, was the first in Mexico to receive international accreditation by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF), and we are also members of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), the leading professional association for board-certified plastic surgeons. We’d love for you to take a virtual tour of VIDA and see how every detail of our facilities is designed with your health and safety in mind, not to mention our top-notch boutique-style recovery rooms.

Affordable Safety.

We firmly believe that everyone should be able to change their lives without affecting their lives. Don’t make financial concerns a part of the equation. According to Realself, in the United States, a Gastric Sleeve can cost up to tens of thousands of dollars, making the procedure an unaffordable luxury for most patients. At VIDA, on the other hand, we have the privilege of offering you the possibility to start your weight loss journey with a Gastric Sleeve at a more affordable price. The procedure, including surgeon fees, anesthesiologist fees, lab work and your recovery stay starts at only $5,000 USD.

Conclusion: choosing certified surgeons and hospitals who always follow high-quality standards is what makes getting a Gastric Sleeve in Mexico safe. At VIDA, patient safety and satisfaction are always priority #1. Our medical staff will carefully evaluate your case and health before recommending a Gastric Sleeve. So, if you are ready to get rid of the excess weight that is holding you back from enjoying your life, we are here for you!  You can visit our website or contact us via phone, email, or Facebook. Call us at 1 (664) 608-6460 from Mexico, at 1 (619) 955-6845  from the USA, or reach us at our toll-free number 1 (619)738-2144. We are also available via email at contact@vidawellnessandbeauty.com. We can’t wait to hear from you!

BARIATRIC SURGERY, IS IT FOR ME?

Q: How do I know if I am a candidate? 

A: We all know that the United States and Mexico are leading countries in obesity and that it is very difficult to lose weight. I think we all have gone through wanting to do certain diets and lose weight; But often our lifestyle forces us to eat outside; at late hours, eat junk food, overeating, and so on. It takes a lot of discipline that people generally do not have to achieve weight control.

To find out if you are a candidate you can calculate your body mass index, people above 35 BMI and who have comorbidities (pre-diabetic, hypertension, glucose problems) could be candidates for metabolic or bariatric surgery. Books or standards say patients with a BMI over 40 are already candidates for metabolic surgery. Or if you are a male with over 20% body fat or a woman with more than 30% body fat. Obviously considering that these patients have already tried to lose weight with diet, exercise and have failed, that’s when they are recommended metabolic surgery. It is important to mention that we could operate on a patient with a BMI less than 40, considering the patient’s health state and comorbidities, each patient is different.

         Bariatric Surgeon Specialist

 

Q: What types of bariatric surgery are there?

A: There are several procedures, broadly divided into two:

Some are the restrictive procedures; That limit the amount of food you can eat; And others are malabsorptive procedures, where what you eat is not completely absorbed.

There are mixed procedures that restrict the amount you eat as well as the absorption; You could say that those are the most complete. At one time Gastric Bypass was considered the gold standard of this type of surgery because it combined both procedures: Restrict what you eat and absorption of calories.

Gastric Bypass consists of cutting the stomach and leaving a small pouch where it fits a small amount of food much smaller than before, and we make a short circuit where the food leaps and unites more distally towards the intestine. Depending on the length we want to give, we can jump up to 3 meters of intestine or more where there will be no absorption. By jumping the pancreas or duodenum we then have a positive metabolic effect on the patient. This surgery helps control comorbidities. Therefore, some patients with diabetes, glucose intolerance, or metabolic syndrome could greatly benefit from the bypass.

Gastric sleeve
It is a restrictive procedure with metabolic changes comparable with bypass. Has become the most popular procedure worldwide. This consists of cutting a part of the stomach, around 70% thereby eliminating its great storage capacity, leaving it in the form of a tube that is calibrated with an oro-gastric boggle and cutting the rest.

With this, we achieve that the patient does not eat as much food and at the same time to eat more times per day. It also gets rid of a hormone that is partly responsible for being hungry. So, if we eliminate a great part of the production of this hormone the patient has no longer the anxiety to eat.

The gastric sleeve is one of the simplest surgeries with the best results.

Duodenal Switch
This is a combined procedure, that has a restrictive and malabsorptive component. where we combine the gastric sleeve and skip a large part of the intestine leaving the absorption of food in about two meters of the intestine before passing to the large intestine for elimination.

The disadvantage of the duodenal switch is that it requires a lot of care with supplements. Because the patient can become malnourished if not fed correctly. Then the patient must visit the nutritionist constantly to take care of all their nutrients and microelements to maintain optimal health.

How much weight will I lose with bariatric surgery?

A: With the gastric sleeve let’s say you can expect a loss of 70% to 80% of the patient’s overweight. Also with weight loss helps the patient to control comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemias.

The bypass has a greater success rate of weight loss and the duodenal switch even more, up to 90% of the weight loss. That’s why I mentioned that in the duodenal switch, we have to take great care of nutrition because we can go to the other extreme.

Q: What is the impact on a patient’s life?

A: Well, it’s completely radical … In an overweight patient; Their self-esteem, their quality of life are seriously affected. Obviously, if the patient is very young, he may not feel it as much, but as the years’ pass, the overweight begins to affect the knees, the spine and gives some osteoarthritis because of being overweight. Hypertension, diabetes, and other diseases also begin to appear. Then by eliminating all this, it greatly enhances the health of the person.

On the other hand, is the aesthetic aspect. The patient now looks thinner, looks better, becomes motivated, starts to exercise that he has never done or to be more constant. Then he becomes much more motivated and starts to take care of his diet. Something very important is not to see this type of surgery as the definitive way to lose weight and to be well. It is more a tool to learn to eat well, learn new habits that lead to a healthier lifestyle, lose weight and enjoy better health for a longer time.

If you want to know more information about costs or consultations for these and other procedures, please call (664) 608-6460 and (619) 955-6845 from the United States, you can also access a Bariatric Virtual Consultation by going here 

Dr. Gabriela Rodriguez specializes in General and Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery. She brings to VIDA Wellness and Beauty a wealth of experience in bariatrics.

Virtual Consultation

Start Your Weight Loss Journey with Bariatric Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

To schedule an appointment with our bariatric surgeon to learn more about the advantages of bariatric surgery in Tijuana, México, contact VIDA Wellness and Beauty by calling 1-619-313-6435 (toll free) and start your weight loss journey!

Start your Journey Today

7 DELIGHTFULL JUICES THAT WILL MAKE YOU BURN FAT

 Reaching your ideal weight it’s something that besides determination requires a plan that helps you get quicker results. Juicing, a detox and fat burning method, is more popular than ever because besides being effective is very delicious. It’s recommended to drink the juices while fasting, although a diet based on only juices is not recommendable for a long lasting weight loss. But, what really happens to our body when we ingest these fruit and vegetables cocktails? Why arethey such good allies to help us get rid of those extra pounds? Keep Reading to find out!

 Helping your digestion

Digesting, burning fat, talking, walking, chewing, sleeping, standing… uf! Everything requires an investment of energy from our bodies! Our liver and kidneys are on a daily marathon to clean our system of toxins, fats, chemicals additives and preservatives. This results in the liver and the rest of the organs not working in the optimal manner for fat burning, causing an accumulation of fat in the abdomen, legs, back arms, etc.

By juicing we use less energy in digesting so what we are really doing is giving a break to our digestive system and nourishing it with an infusion of enzymes that normally don’t get in regular cooked foods.

Start your plan and help your organism reduce sizes, besides it’s fair to give your body a rest and lose weight…don’t you think? In case this wasn’t enough. You will look better in selfies!! All these fresh juices will nourish your skin, making you look younger and more radiant. It will even show in your nails and hair!

And as a plus, your body will have more energy to fight sickness; this is because the digestive system doesn’t do a big effort to absorb all the vitamins and minerals of fruits and vegetables taken in a juice form which allows them to go faster into the blood stream.

You may ask yourself for how long should I do juicing? This depends of your goals. There are programs of 3 to 5 days, but you should check your daily activities and overall health condition. We suggest that you consult your plans with your physician and your head nutritionist but for the time being we will present some delicious and healthy recipes that you can include in your diet and start burning fat.

  1. FAT DISOLVER

Fruits and vegetables to help burn fat and awaken your metabolic system!

  • 1 peeled grapefruit
  • 2 peeled oranges
  • 1 handful of mint
  • 1 Roman lettuce

Put everything in your blender, juicer or your favorite machine and enjoy it while fasting.

  1. SUPER GREEN

Taking this parsley delight helps you with digestion and weight loss; it also helps to get tide of excess water in the body that makes us look heavier. Green apples are recommended, but you can use your favorites

Ingredients

  • 2 Apple’s
  • 4 celery sticks
  • 1 cucumber
  • 24 grs of ginger
  • 6 kale leaves
  • ½ lemon
  • Parsley

 

  1. SPINACH AND APPLE

Ingredients

  • 2 medium size apples in cubes
  • 2 cups of sliced spinachs
  • Lemon juice
  • ½ cup of red lettuce or carrot leaves
  • ¼ cup pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of kosher salt (pure salt)

4.SPICY FAT BURNER

  • 1 cup of pineapple
  • 5 leaves of kale
  • 1 cucumber
  • ½ jalapeno

Pineapple will refresh and inject vitamins and minerals such as thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin N-6, panthenoic acid, magnesium, manganese, potassium and more. In addition, abundant bromelain in pineapple will help reduce inflammation and convert food into energy.

  1. BURNER AND ENERGIZER

½ pineapple

2 apples

½ box of alfalfa

½ handful of watercress

½ handful of kale

½ handful of broccoli

1 ounce of wheat grass (or a tablespoon powdered)

2 ice cubes

Mix all the ingredients in your juice machine and serve the ice in a glass.

  1. LIGHT MOON

Ingredients easy to get in your nearest store, delicious for bedtime

1 lemon

  • 1 cucumber
  • 1 teaspoon of crushed ginger
  • 1 tablespoon of aloe vera juice
  • 1 handfull of cilantro or parsley
  • ½ glass of water

Mix the ingredients and enjoy the juice before going to bed.

  1. PINK DELIGHT

Excellent for burning fat. Enjoy it before eating for a greater sense of satiety.

  • 1 pink grapefruit
  • 1 lime
  • 1 cup of cranberries
  • 2 chunks of ginger
  • 1 half cucumber (optional for diluting and add texture)

This drink has a delicious flavor with a sour taste; ginger is optional to counteract the acid of grapefruit.

Recommendations of our nutritionist:

– As much as possible, choose fresh and organic fruits and vegetables.

– Avoid adding sugar, artificial juices and concentrates.

– Consult your nutritionist or doctor in case that you take any medication to prevent interactions (for example don’t have grapefruit if you take antibiotics).

– Space your coffee intake with the juices. Coffee, green tea and black tea inhibit the absorption of many nutrients and enzymes.

– Take the juices fresh, preferably in the first 10 minutes after being prepared.

We hope these recipes will be useful and you begin to enjoy them today. If you want additional information on procedures for weight loss visit us www.vidabariatrics.com where you can find information on nutrition services, bariatric surgery, and so on.

Is Pregnancy Safe for a Bariatric Surgery Patient?

Malnourishment, high-risk pregnancy and other fears can follow when we think about undergoing bariatric surgery and becoming pregnant. We invite you to clear up all the doubts you might have by reading this article.

What should I know about pregnancy after bariatric surgery?  Will my baby be able to obtain sufficient nutrients?

 We have good news for you! Pregnancy after any type of bariatric surgery can be safe and healthy as long as you have adequate management and supervision by you and your doctor. In fact, research suggests that pregnancy after a weight loss surgery can be safer for both, the mother and the baby, in comparison with a high-risk pregnancy caused by obesity problems.

Although more research is needed, some studies suggest that bariatric surgery can protect obese women and their babies from some issues during pregnancy such as first-stage diabetes, preeclampsia, high blood pressure, and signs of damage in some vital organs like kidneys, after 20 weeks into the pregnancy.

If you underwent bariatric surgery or are thinking about it and want to become pregnant, you should consult your doctor for planning. You can also consult a certified nutritionist to help you with nutrition and weight control during your pregnancy. And more importantly, you should let your OBGYN know that you have a weight loss surgery so he or she can supervise you in an adequate manner.

How long should I wait after my Bariatric Surgery?

Experts recommend to post-pone a pregnancy until your weight stabilizes after bariatric surgery. Normally the recommendation is to wait from 12 to 18 months after your surgery.

This is due to the fact that rapid weight loss may deprive a growing baby of important nutrients, with a risk of having an underweight newborn. To monitor your baby’s growth, your doctor may recommend a fetus ultrasound during the first trimester into the pregnancy.

Vitamins, vitamins, and more vitamins!

Depending on the type of bariatric surgery that you had chosen and your specific nutrition needs it is probable that your doctor recommends certain supplements like, folic acid, vitamin B12, iron, and calcium, besides your daily doses of prenatal vitamins before and after the pregnancy.

Would you like to lose weight or learn more about bariatric surgery? Reach out to VIDA Bariatrics

In VIDA Bariatrics in Tijuana, we have certified bariatric surgeons, nutritionists and internal medicine doctors so you can answer all of your doubts and questions, as well as receive appropriate advice about which type of bariatric surgery is more convenient according with your general health, lifestyle and expectations. And as if this wasn’t enough, we have certified plastic surgeons that will help you sculpt what you wish to improve once you have your beautiful baby. So, there you have it! There is no reason to worry about the goals and dreams you have in mind!

For more information contact us at 1-619-610-1667 toll free from the US, or from Mexico you can contact us at (664) 608-64-60. You can also write to: contact@vidawellnessandbeauty.com or have a virtual consultation at the following link: Virtual Consultation 

For more information about the profile of our bariatric surgeons in Tijuana, click the following link: Medical Team VIDA Bariatrics

Blog Post: Breastfeeding Post Weight Loss Surgery 101

How healthy is that food? Figuring out food labels.

The very first step to proper nutrition is making sure you know exactly what you are putting into your body. Choosing the best food for your health can be difficult when someone else is preparing it, but we have the right to know what we are consuming. This is why we have nutrition facts labels, so everyone can make informed decisions about what they are putting into their systems.

Gabriela Vázquez, licensed nutriologist at VIDA Wellness and Beauty.

Listed below is a breakdown of the key components to a nutrition label, and what they tell you about the nutritional value of the item.

Serving Size: This provides you with a quantity of how much equals one serving, and how many servings are in a package. All the information on the label is based on one serving, so if you eat three servings, you must multiply all those number values by three to find out how much you are actually consuming.

Calories: This gives a measure of how much energy you get from a serving of that food. Eating foods that are packed with nutrients without being too high in calories means it is a nutrient-dense food—and a good choice. You want to get the most nutritional bang for your caloric buck.

We eat food to absorb the nutrients it provides, which make it possible for our bodies to function. Not all nutrients are created equal, however. These are the nutrients you will find listed on a nutrition facts label, in order of appearance:

Fat: Fat should not necessarily be avoided, but it is important to keep it in check. Fat provides essential fatty acids, which are not made by the body and help to control inflammation, blood clotting and brain development. Fat serves as the storage unit for extra calories. There are three types of fat. Unsaturated fat is good for the heart and usually can be found in liquid form at room temperature, like olive oil. The other types are saturated fat and trans fat, which should be monitored more closely.

Saturated Fat is usually found in meat and dairy products. While you are encouraged to consume some saturated fats, high levels have been known to cause heart disease.

Easy: Just avoid trans fats!

Trans Fat is the worst offender and should be avoided at all costs. Trans fats are man-made and have been linked to diabetes, heart disease, cardiovascular diseases and other still emerging health risks. There is no benefit to consuming trans-fat. If you see “partially hydrogenated oil” on an ingredients list, the food contains trans-fat—even if the trans-fat % DV (percent of your daily value—see below) says zero.

Cholesterol: Cholesterol is important in controlling your hormones, but too much cholesterol in the blood can damage arteries and cause cardiovascular disease.

Sodium: Sodium regulates blood pressure and blood volume in the body. Healthy adults should limit sodium intake to 2,300 mg per day while those with high blood pressure should keep it to no more than 1,500 mg per day.

Total Carbohydrates: Carbs get a bad rap, but not all are bad for you. Carbs are your body’s No. 1 source of energy! There are two types of carbs: processed and whole-grain. Whole grains contain more fiber and nutrients and will regulate your blood sugar, keeping your energy and appetite levels stable, making them a healthier choice. Processed carbs are burned up quickly, spike your blood sugar and leave you hungry soon after, making them a carb to avoid as much as possible.

While the Total Carbohydrates won’t tell you which can be found in your food, it will tell you how many grams there are per serving. To find out if your food contains whole grains, check the ingredient list. If the first word in the list—the very first word—is whole, you are consuming whole grains. If the first ingredient says enriched or bleached, it is a processed carb, will leave you hungry sooner and offers little nutrition.

Dietary Fiber: Fiber is indigestible, but helps the digestive process run smoothly. Food high in fiber, due to the inability to be digested, also helps you stay fuller, longer.

Sugar: There are two types of sugars: natural sugars, which occur naturally in foods like fruit and dairy, and added sugars, ones that are added to foods to change the taste. Over consumption of sugar is linked to an increased risk for obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia (high cholesterol, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol and/or high LDL cholesterol). It is recommended that women limit added sugar intake to 24 grams or 6 teaspoons and men 36 grams or 9 teaspoons.

Protein: Protein helps to facilitate muscle repair and growth. It is recommended that adults consume .8 grams of protein for every pound of body weight.

Vitamin A, C, Calcium and Iron: Simply put, these are vitamins and minerals nutrients your body needs to run properly. Vitamins and minerals are found in the foods we eat, and some foods are more dense with vitamins and minerals than others.

Regarding ingredients, the labels will give you a clue if it’s a very elaborate food or what is so natural or processed. We must keep in mind the amount of preservatives, colorings, and flavorings, which are used in its preparation. Its not recommended that highly processed food makes part of your daily diet, because eventually will toll on you.

Good nutrition is key throughout your life!

There’s a huge difference between eating well and eating poorly. Good nutrition can help you feel in better shape and stay strong, in addition to helping reduce the risk of some common diseases such as certain cancers, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, osteoporosis, among others. If you suffer from certain health problems, good nutrition can help to control symptoms and live better.

If you want to learn more or would like the schedule a consultation with our certified nutriologist at VIDA Wellness and Beauty, you can call us toll free 1-619-610-1667 from US or dial (664) 608-6460 if you are in México. Remember that we are only a 10 minutes drive from the border, and you can complement your visit with other consultation services like dermatology, internal medicine, and more, half the cost than in United States.

BEATING OBESITY: THE GASTRIC SLEEVE

Want to know if a gastric sleeve is right for you?

 Answer to those phrases that you identify with:

  • I’ve tried to lose weight with diets and exercise without getting results.
  • My overweight is causing me health problems and diseases.
  • When I look into the mirror, I would love to look different.

If you answered yes to more than one of the above sentences, and your BMI (Body Mass Index) is more than 30, we have an excellent option for you: Gastric sleeve surgery.

Severe to moderate obesity has become an epidemic disease in the last decade. Contemporary lifestyles, as well as hormonal, thyroid, and endocrine problems, make it difficult for many people to reach a healthy weight, despite multiple efforts like working out, diets, and medication, it just seems something impossible to achieve.

In the United States, two-thirds of women are overweight and have obesity problems. Even worse, there are 67.6 million obese people and 65 million overweight individuals, according to a study by the Washington Medical University of Saint Louis, Missouri, in 2012. This means that 40% of the US population is facing overweight problems and health disorders associated to obesity. If you are part of the statistics, we want to help you!

 What is the Gastric Sleeve?

 Gastric sleeve is a safe and new procedure and a very effective option to the treatment of obesity, changing the life of people in the long term since it promotes a new lifestyle, making it difficult to recover the lost weight.

The gastric sleeve has a few advantages over the gastric band since there is no foreign body in the stomach. This surgery also known as vertical gastric sleeve consists of the removal of 85% of the stomach from the body, this reduction is what forces the patient to eat only 10% to 15% less than before, causing a dramatic weight loss in the first six months after the surgery. Of course, the patient needs to make some changes in his nutritional habits, eating more balanced in order to keep good health. In a few words, the person learns to eat again.

Another of the advantages is the minimal invasion of the body, since it is a procedure done by laparoscopy, via incisions ½ inch or less. This has added safety to the operation as well as patient acceptance.

Are you a candidate for the gastric sleeve?

If you have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of more than 35 it means you are a candidate for this type of surgery, also if you have been diagnosed with serious conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or high blood pressure related to overweight.

How much weight am I going to lose?

Most of the weight is lost in the first six months after the surgery.  After this period the patient must continue with a balanced diet and a training plan in order to keep a healthy lifestyle.*

Health benefits

When you compare the statistics against traditional diet and workout programs or even specialist-supervised programs, you’ll find out that the surgery is more effective with long-term weight maintenance and improvement of health. The patients often live a long, productive, and healthier life, with fewer visits to the health care system.

Also, the savings in health care expenses will pay for the surgery in 2 or 4 years, since in 75% of the cases patients will experience the reduction or total disappearance of chronic disorders like heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and other degenerative illnesses.

Change your life today in the hands of top-qualified surgeons and world-class care at affordable prices.

At VIDA Bariatrics you would find an experienced team of bariatric surgeons, certified and qualified with more than 5,000 successful surgeries. If you are seeking a lifelong impact, at VIDA Bariatrics you have the opportunity to do it, paying 50% less than in the United States for a bariatric procedure like the gastric sleeve.

If you want more information or want to schedule a virtual consultation, feel free to call us at 1 (619) 610-1667 from the US, or access to a
Virtual Consultation from the safety of your own home.

*Bariatric surgery results may vary in every person. A nutritional program follows bariatric surgery in order to achieve the best results.

THE 3 TOP REASONS PEOPLE REGAIN WEIGHT AFTER WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY

After decades of a toxic relationship with food, Sara found herself in a hospital bed at 50, thinking she was going to die. Today, Sara climbs mountains instead of holding on to railings to pull herself up the stairs. She works as a life coach, helping people release the fears and long held beliefs/habits that have stopped them from living a full, healthier life.

At VIDA Bariatrics we care about every part of your journey.

We’re very happy to announce Sara as a VIDA Bariatrics collaborator.

Making the decision to have weight loss surgery is a very big deal. It seems obvious to say that when someone agrees to weight-loss surgery they’re desperate for help to change the way they’re living, or not fully living their lives. Everyone goes into the procedure ready and willing to surgically alter their anatomy hoping for a better future. So why is it that so many will fall short of losing the optimal amount of weight for their health and will actually regain within 3 years much if not all of the weight they lost? Some studies say 1/3 of patients will regain most of their weight post-surgery. I think the number is actually higher because many people who regain simply fall out of contact with their bariatric surgeon and support staff because they feel ashamed, so the statistics do not include these people. So, why do most people regain the weight? What can you do to help insure that you will be one of the successful long-term losers of your excess weight? By examining why people fail you can create a plan for how you will succeed.

The government agency, National Institutes for Health (NIH) defines weight-loss surgery as “merely a tool that helps people get a new start toward maintaining long-term good health. The surgery alone will not help someone lose weight and keep it off.

Together with a reduced-calorie and low-fat diet and daily exercise, surgery will help an individual lose weight and maintain the weight loss.” Please read that a few times. That is how important this quote is! The surgery alone will not help someone lose weight and keep it off. We as weight-loss surgery patients have a history of seeking comfort, happiness and pleasure through food. We wouldn’t be here if that weren’t true. Me included. The process of surgically altering our anatomies does nothing to remove from us the tendency to seek comfort in familiar ways but assures there will be physical suffering if we do. Post-surgery we will still have the same brain that is used to comforting us with food, and we will still have the fingers and the arms that are used to lifting food to the same mouth to find comfort and pleasure. It is critically important that the WLS patient seek out new ways to soothe, comfort, and find pleasure in their world other than by eating.

ONE main reason patients regain their weight is they search for ways to get around the surgery, still thinking of food as primarily a source of pleasure, not a source of fuel that can be pleasurable. This is often done relying on liquid calories, which may pass more easily, like high calorie coffee or juice bar drinks or alcohol. This is also done post-operatively by trying to maintain the presence of “trigger foods” in their lives. “Trigger foods” are often foods from the patient’s past that helped cause obesity, do not satisfy hunger but instead create a craving. Many are high-calorie and highly processed, not nutritious. Trigger foods can include chocolate, chips, crackers, bread, cookies, ice cream, pudding, lattes, frapuccinos and alcoholic beverages. Really, any food can be a “trigger food” if there is so much pleasure in the “mouth-feel” or taste that repeating the pleasurable experience takes on more importance than actually feeding hunger. Very successful patients cultivate a mostly trigger-free postsurgical life. Bariatric surgeons know the most common reason for regain. The most common postsurgical complication is “noncompliance.” Non-compliance is a fancy word that means the patient is not eating and exercising the way he/she agreed to before surgery. These people “talk the talk.” The successful patient “walks the walk” after surgery and changes how they eat and move.

A SECOND reason people often regain beginning in the second or third year post-op is that the “honeymoon” is over. The “honeymoon” generally encompasses the first 12 to 18 months postsurgery. During this time many patients will say, “I could eat all the chocolate and ice cream I wanted and still lose weight. I didn’t have to try and the weight just came off.” This is often true because the body has been through such a shock after surgery that it takes months for the body to reset itself and learn to function with its’ new physiology. Patients who regain their weight often believe that this “honeymoon period” is the new way that it will always be and don’t adopt healthy eating patterns. So when their “honeymoon period” ends as it will they believe that the surgery has somehow failed them. In reality they have failed their surgery! During the first 12-18 months post-op it is essential to develop healthy patterns around food and exercise. This is the time when it is actually easiest to do and to not do so wastes a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to begin a great new life with positive momentum.

A THIRD reason many patients regain much of their lost weight is a lack of support. Humans are social animals and we desire and need the support of each other throughout our lives. For thousands, if not tens of thousands, of years people coming together as a family or a community over food has been a way we connect with each other. Post-surgery, when the patient isn’t able to eat what others are eating or in the quantities others are eating, or others are eating their ‘trigger foods”, life can feel very stressful and lonely. This can be compounded by being around unsupportive people or people who want to be supportive but don’t know how. Patients fail by not surrounding themselves with supportive people in a safe environment where they also must be accountable for their actions and behavior with food and their bodies. It is key to have a community of professionals and non-professionals who understand the challenges and hardships faced by those carving a new life with a new anatomical structure. There are online and in-person support groups. Even patients who’ve gone abroad for weight loss surgery can often use the support services available with their local medical group’s Bariatric department. Creating relationships that support and assist you in becoming a healthier person and that hold you accountable for making healthy choices are key.

These are my top three. What would you add to this list? What plan will you create to deal with the items you add to this list? Who will support you on this journey of your life…..for your life?

Call us toll free!

1 (619) 610-1667

8 Tips For The Bariatric Patient

Thinking about getting bariatric surgery? The benefits from this weight-loss procedure are life-changing, and according to the ASMBS, the number of bariatric surgeries in 2017, 228,000 bariatric procedures were performed in the U.S., which is about 1 % of the population eligible for surgery. Here are some tips for the bariatric hopeful. 

Mr. Right Doctor

We cannot stress enough the importance of the right fit between you and your doctor. This person is about to guide you into one of the most important events in your life, and if you’re not 110% comfortable with them, you shouldn’t move forward. Trust and communication are key when it comes to the doctor-patient relationship. A trustworthy bariatric surgeon is board certified, has documentation of his work, and probably has a ton of patient referrals willing to vouch for him. Do your research on bariatric surgeons online, including reading testimonials and checking out every option. Don’t be afraid to ask every single question and resolve every doubt. This is your life we’re talking about, and the right doctor will not rush you and understand your own personal process.

All Set?

The pre-op process is lengthy and vital for the outcome. These are a few important points:

  1. Do your research. Understanding the surgical process and what to expect afterward will make this easier. Talk to people who have gone through it before, and make sure you have a support group. This is not only a physical makeover, but an emotional one as well.
  2. You will have to make changes pre-op. Losing a bit of weight before surgery reduces risks and speeds up the recovery process. If you smoke, you will definitely have to stop. Your surgeon will also have you go through a qualification process tailored to your specific case.
  3. Bear in mind that your life will truly completely change after this. Your eating habits will be modified for the rest of your life, so you must be mentally prepared for this 180°, have an outlined plan to maintain your weight loss after surgery, and be able to follow through.

Let’s Get Physical!

Working out is equally important in pre-op & post-op. Increasing your level of fitness is obviously good for your mental and physical state, and focusing on cardiovascular exercise improves heart health, decreases body weight and helps lose fat. Be sure to work with caloric facts and medical guidance as to not overdo it and hurt yourself. After surgery, you should gradually incorporate low-intensity physical activity in your daily routine, with the guidance of your doctor or health care specialist. Without a doubt, exercise will form a key part of your success for the rest of your life.

Easy As Pie

A diet designed especially for the post-op bariatric patient is imperative to ensure the goals are reached, i.e. help the body heal and modify their overall eating habits. It’s truly important to follow the recommended guidelines carefully prepared by your healthcare providers for this situation. The purpose of a diet is to limit the amount of caloric intake you consume without sacrificing balanced meals that help you achieve optimum nutrition and preserve muscle tissue. It also helps to get used to new portion sizes, lose the actual weight and avoid side effects from the surgery. Some general guidelines would be:

  • Eat balanced meals with small portions.
  • Follow a diet low in calories, fats, and sweets.
  • Keep a record of your food portions and of your calorie and protein intake.
  • Eat slowly and chew small bites of food thoroughly.
  • Do not use straws, drink carbonated beverages, or chew ice. They can introduce air into your pouch and cause discomfort.

The specifics of your diet should be discussed with your personal healthcare specialist. Needless to say, life after surgery is going to be very different, and you have to be patient with yourself and ease into this new and improved lifestyle. Have some fun looking for (or making your own!) creative recipes for this new phase of your life.

H2Go!

We’ve all heard the 8-glasses-of-water-a-day rule, and as obvious as it may seem, this essential liquid plays a key part in your metabolism. Although most of us take it for granted, water has many qualities almost tailored for the bariatric patient. Apart from naturally suppressing the appetite, studies have shown that the amount of water you drink has a direct relationship with the decrease/increase of fat deposits in your body.

This is because our kidneys can’t work at their full potential without enough water consumption. When this happens, some of their work is passed on to the liver. The liver, as we know, metabolizes fat into energy, but when it has the kidney’s load on top of that, it can’t fulfill its task properly and metabolizes less. Consequently, the fat remains in the body, and weight loss suddenly becomes way more difficult, so be sure to stay hydrated!

No Mama Drama

You most definitely and obviously cannot go through bariatric surgery while pregnant or while still healing from this beautiful process, but there are some things you should know about when looking forward to pregnancy after weight loss.

  1. After a bariatric procedure, your body is going through a LOT. A body that is losing weight rapidly and adjusting its nutritional deficiencies is not a good habitat for a baby. Experts recommend waiting 18 months after surgery so your body is in tip-top shape for the newcomer.
  2. According to a 2004 study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, women who’ve had bariatric surgery have a higher risk for a cesarean process. The causes are not exactly clear, but the results are. Talk to your ob-gyn from the beginning so they can guide you in these issues.
  3. Great news! A 2005 report in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing tells us that women with obesity-related fertility problems see a significant improvement in their fertility after weight-loss surgery.
  4. Remember that our bodies and minds are inextricably linked. You may have to deal with body image issues when your body starts changing again during pregnancy. From accepting this change in your physicality –again- to coming up with strategies to lessen stress-eating and sticking to a good diet, make sure you’re ready for the pregnancy journey.

Body Language

When considering weight-loss surgery, most people tend to think about the bariatric process only, when in reality there are more decisions to make. Massive fluctuations in weight often cause the skin to lose its elasticity, so it can no longer shrink back to a smaller size and shape once the excess weight has been lost. This can leave post-bariatric patients with loose excess skin that hangs off the body in folds. The board-certified plastic surgeons at VIDA Bariatrics realize this and for each specific case, there are several procedures that can solve this.

Patients who have undergone major weight loss surgery generally see body contouring as the next step. This consists in a combination of procedures that address the problematic areas in each situation. Generally, it targets excess sagging skin on the buttocks, excess skin on the thighs and hips, and/or limited fat deposits in lower body areas. To correct all these aesthetic concerns, plastic surgeons offer the post-bariatric lift, which focuses on the upper body and lower body.

For instance, for patients needing extensive contouring throughout their entire lower body, lower body lift surgery can include abdominoplasty (tummy tuck surgery), lateral thigh lift, and Brazilian butt lift surgery. For other patients requiring less extensive body contouring, the CosMed plastic surgeon may only include abdominoplasty and thigh lift surgery. To get a broader sense of the post-bariatric lift, you can click on the following link:

www.vidawellnessandbeauty.com/services/bariatrics/post-bariatric-body-contouring

Lifelines

A lifestyle change is easier said than done. The weight-loss experience can be a hard and emotional one, even when you have the means to recover in luxury. Support is what will get you through this process more than anything else. Readjusting almost all of your life can be terrifying, and we know that. That’s why we recommend keeping your dear friends close by for familiar warmth, group therapy with people who have gone through the same ordeal and can advise you on things they’ve been through themselves, or life coaching from a certified specialist that can give you psychological and emotional support through your brave journey.

Dr. Gabriela Rodriguez specializes in General and Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery. She brings to VIDA Wellness and Beauty a wealth of experience in bariatrics.

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Start Your Weight Loss Journey with Bariatric Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

To schedule an appointment with our bariatric surgeon to learn more about the advantages of bariatric surgery in Tijuana, México, contact VIDA Wellness and Beauty by calling 1-619-313-6435 (toll free) and start your weight loss journey!

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The Beth Project: Super Creative Pictures Document a Woman’s Weight Loss!

A life transformation is something to be remembered!

This is exactly what Beth Beard and Blake Morrow had in mind when they went into this almost 2 year long project called the “Beth Project“. Blake is a pop culture oriented photographer based in Toronto that has interned for Annie Leibovitz and photographed bands like Radiohead, Oasis and Moby. Beth has a background in theater and more importantly, had a life journey to share.

When she approached her old friend Blake about doing some before and after pictures to document her weight-loss after bariatric surgery, they both jumped on the chance to be creative. We love how these photos turned out!

They named this series “The Beth Project“ and Blake released a little statement of the piece on his website:

“I created a series of pop culture-inspired portraits for my friend Beth, playfully celebrating her fantastic weight-loss of 150 pounds. I shot her “Before“ and “After“ selves two years apart, and then digitally integrated them to interact with each other within each scene. To properly communicate and celebrate Beth’s accomplishment, her body shape has not been digitally altered.”

We love this attitude and their artistry. Hurray for real bodies, and real journeys!

If you’re interested in documenting your weight-loss transformation, here at VIDA we’d be more than happy to oblige!

Get creative with us! If you want more information, feel free to call us at 1 (619) 610-1667, and we’ll be more than happy to help you!

5 Easy Ways to Detox

This modern life keeps us busy and always on the go, but once in a while it’s important to stop and make an effort to thank our body and detoxify.

Here are five easy ways to get started with your detox habits!

If Life Gives You Lemons …

We’ve all heard of the benefits of this citrus juice – from the Master Cleanse (that has been in vogue since the 40’s) to drinking lukewarm lemon juice at the beginning of the day – lemon is famous for its aid in digestion and its antiviral, antibiotic and antiseptic traits. But did you know that lemon peels are also incredible for detoxing at home? The oil in the lemon’s rind contains a powerful chemical agent called d-Limonene. This extract is known for having detoxifying characteristics that scavenge free radicals (i.e. lines & wrinkles!), increase liver enzymes and fight carcinogens.

We recommend mixing a few lemons (don’t forget the peel!), a bit of coconut oil and a touch of aloe vera into your blender to enjoy a delicious and naturally sweetened lemon water that will work hard to clean your insides will you continue your busy day!

Spice (and Herb) Up Your Life!

Apart from bringing out flavors and enticing our sense of taste and smell, spices and herbs are fantastic for detox habits! A few of our favorites would include:

  • Cilantro: This pungent leaf can do way more than add some fun to your chicken salad! It’s a powerful antioxidant, but most importantly, it helps your body get rid of toxins such as mercury and fight the dangerous salmonella bacteria.
  • Cinnamon: We all enjoy a cupcake or two, but one of the best ways to take advantage of this sweet spice’s qualities is to drink it. A mix of boiled water, organic honey & cinnamon in the morning works wonders on an empty stomach. Get ready to enjoy the anti-inflammatory, pro-circulatory benefits to help your body flush the toxins away!
  • Dandelion: This flower has been used in Chinese and Native American tradition for centuries, given that it contains diuretics and it supports bile production, which helps transport toxins out of the body. Sip a cup of dandelion root tea and wait for the magical effects!
  • Cayenne Pepper: A known circulatory stimulant, this little spice does wonders for our lymphatic and digestive systems as well. Its spiciness heats our body, making us sweat and streamlining the detox process. Combine it with the popular lemon and honey for a kick-start morning!

Juicy Cool-ture

Juicing detoxes are all the rage these days, and for good reason! Benefits include resting the stomach & liver, repairing the gut, and reducing your appetite. There’s a wide variety of juice trends, so when it comes to choosing your juice detox, make sure you’re flooding your body with super nutrition and the right amounts for your complexion. Whether you decide to go with a green smoothie cleanse or a more fruit-astic option, confirm that it’s balanced and really fills your caloric needs so you can enjoy rehydration, renewed energy and maximum detoxification.

Charcoal Is the New Black

When we found out what activated charcoal is, we couldn’t believe we’d gone without it for so long! This unique, odorless and tasteless form of carbon is treated to achieve highly porous properties, and is able to adsorb many chemicals and reduce their toxicity in their course through our body. You can find activated charcoal capsules at Walgreens, CVS or almost any pharmacy as a supplement. Its amazing detoxifying properties have many uses – from treating poison ingestion to water filters – but we came up with some fun DIY ideas:

  • Goodbye Blackheads!

Take a few carbon capsules and empty them into a container. Add a bit of witch hazel (a natural astringent known to reduce puffiness and redness) a bit of aloe vera, and mix in with the charcoal to get a black liquid texture. Test it on a small portion of the skin on your wrist to see that you don’t have any adverse reactions. Distribute the mix evenly over your face, including the lips but avoiding your eyes, for 5-10 minutes, and then wash off with a warm wet towel to admire the glowing outcome!

  • Teeth White-out!

This is as easy as dipping your toothbrush into the charcoal powder and brushing away! As we’ve said before, activated carbon traps the toxins and carries them with it, so if you regularly brush your teeth with it (once a week is more than enough) you will see color improvement on your pearly whites! Don’t freak out with the black foam, brush for 5 minutes, and rinse repeatedly to get the most out of this detoxifying cleanse!

Wrap & Rock!

If you have a little more time to spare, some hands on work by professionals is always the best way to go! A full-body wrap works wonders for your body, especially if it’s one tailored to detox. Here at MediSpa by Cosmed we have the best option! The Cosmed Signature Detox Wrap is a purifying, cleansing treatment that improves circulation and helps skin cells function with greater efficiency. It removes toxins and impurities, resetting your skin so it feels and looks healthier & balanced. The combination of healthy daily habits with professional care is the key to treat yourself like you should. Never underestimate the power of professional care when it comes to your skin!