Alex Brecher

Yup! I had hernia surgery after I had my Bypass and Bypass reversal. It was a standard hernia surgery.

I don't understand why surgeons ask their patients to use chewable vitamins. Flavorless capsules dissolve quickly once they're taken orally, and they don't get stuck. Solid tablets definitely can cause issues. I use BariatricPal Multivitamin ONE “1 per Day!” flavorless capsules from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/bariatricpal-multivitamin-one! BariatricPal has a special offer where it’ll cost you only $99 for an entire year's supply! Check it out at https://store.bariatricpal.com/99 With just ONE convenient & affordable BariatricPal Multivitamin ONE daily, you can get the bariatric vitamins and minerals you need to stay healthy! BariatricPal Multivitamin ONE was designed and developed by the world’s leading Bariatric medical professionals. Please take a calcium supplement separately to prevent interference with iron absorption. You can view a large selection of bariatric-friendly Calcium supplements at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/calcium. You can also find MANY other brands of bariatric multivitamins at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/multivitamins.

If you take a real bariatric multivitamin and consume enough protein, you should be covered. There's no need to buy a separate hair vitamin. I use BariatricPal Multivitamin ONE “1 per Day!” flavorless capsules from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/bariatricpal-multivitamin-one! BariatricPal has a special offer where it’ll cost you only $99 for an entire year's supply! Check it out at https://store.bariatricpal.com/99 With just ONE convenient & affordable BariatricPal Multivitamin ONE daily, you can get the bariatric vitamins and minerals you need to stay healthy! BariatricPal Multivitamin ONE was designed and developed by the world’s leading Bariatric medical professionals. Please take a calcium supplement separately to prevent interference with iron absorption. You can view a large selection of bariatric-friendly Calcium supplements at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/calcium. You can also find MANY other brands of bariatric multivitamins at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/multivitamins.

If you're looking for a convenient and tasty way to supplement your protein intake, check out the wide selection of bariatric-friendly protein bars available at the BariatricPal Store. While some options are available in single servings, others are sold in bulk. This allows you to easily find the perfect protein bar without the risk of wasting money on a whole box of something you may not like. Here are some of the awesome protein bar brands they carry: - Atkins Nutritionals - BariatricPal - Bhu Foods - BSN - Buff Bake - Built Bar - CanDo - Convenient Nutrition - Dang - Detour - Eat Me Guilt Free - Epic - Evolved - Extend Nutrition - Genius Gourmet - Good To Go - HealthSmart Foods - IQBar - Keto Bars - Keto Wise - Kirkland - Love Good Fats - MET-Rx - Munk Pack - Muscle Foods - NuGo - One Brands - Optimum Nutrition - Organic Food Bar Company - Perfect Keto - Power Crunch - Promax - Proti Diet - Pure Protein - Quest Nutrition - Raw Revolution - Rawmantic Chocolate - Robert Irvine's Fit Crunch - SlimFast - Think! - Universal Nutrition - ZonePerfect

I can tell you who you shouldn't use. Do NOT use Dr. Selim Illan at BC Hospital and coordinators Bill Yanez and Stacy Illan. They embezzled a ton of my money, and Dr. Illan BOTCHED up my surgery TWICE!!! There are many great options in Mexico. Don't chance it with a dishonest surgeon.

I resposted your experience in both our FaceBook groups: Gastric Sleeve Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/GastricSleeveSupport/permalink/5377631009006951/ and Bariatric Surgery Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheBariatricSurgerySupportGroup/permalink/2503349566499729 I hope this brings more awareness to your situation and assists other when deciding on a surgeon or facility to use in Mexico.

Thanks for bringing this to my attention. I will post about this to our FaceBook groups. There are many members over there researching doctors and facilities in Mexico. I’m not surprised or shocked. It’s terrible that this is still going on over there.

Exciting news for all bariatric patients! The BariatricPal Store has added the delicious and nutritious Protein2o Orange Mango Whey Protein Isolate Powder to its product line. This powder is perfect for those looking for a premium whey protein isolate with a burst of tangy orange and juicy mango flavor. Not only does it taste amazing, but it's also lower in calories and contains 0g of sugar, making it a great option for those trying to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. And, with the added electrolytes, it provides the fuel you need to tackle your next adventure. If you're a fan of fruity flavors, this powder is a must-try! Personally, it's one of my favorite protein powders, and I'm sure you'll love it too. So head to the BariatricPal Store and get your hands on this amazing product today!

It's common to feel nervous about stretching your stomach after bariatric surgery, especially in the early stages of recovery. However, it's important to listen to your body and trust the process. Slowing down between bites and being mindful of the foods you're eating can help you better identify feelings of fullness

It's great that you are taking the time to consider any potential issues before your gastric sleeve surgery. Narrow airways can indeed be a concern during anesthesia, but it's important to note that this is a relatively uncommon issue and can often be managed effectively by your healthcare team. In many cases, the anesthesia team will use alternative methods for intubation such as a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) or a fiberoptic scope to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Additionally, some patients may be managed with a combination of intravenous and inhaled anesthesia, which can also be effective. It's important to discuss any concerns you have with your anesthesia provider and surgeon before your surgery. They will be able to provide you with more information about your specific situation and determine the best course of action for you. Good luck with your surgery!

I hope you're feeling better! Here are a few last-minute tips that may help: Follow your surgeon's pre-op instructions carefully, including any dietary restrictions or fasting requirements. Pack a bag with comfortable clothes, toiletries, and any other essentials you may need during your recovery. Get plenty of rest the night before your surgery. Have a trusted friend or family member accompany you to the hospital and be prepared to stay overnight. After your surgery, be sure to follow your surgeon's instructions for post-op care, including taking any prescribed medications, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding strenuous activity. Stay positive and focus on your goals. Remember, you're making this change for your health and well-being. Good luck with your surgery, and feel free to reach out if you have any other questions or concerns.

It's not recommended to chew and spit out solid foods, even if it's just for the flavor, as this can disrupt the healing process and negatively impact your weight loss progress after bariatric surgery. It's important to stick to a clear liquid diet for the first few weeks post-op and then slowly transition to pureed and soft foods as recommended by your doctor or dietitian. It's important to follow their guidelines and avoid any foods that may not be suitable for your specific type of surgery.

Losing a large amount of weight can result in loose skin, especially in areas such as the midsection. While exercise and skin tightening exercises can help improve the appearance of loose skin a little, they will not eliminate it. However, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine can help improve skin elasticity and strengthen the underlying muscles. In most cases, surgery will be necessary to remove excess skin.

No questions are dumb! Dyeing hair/roots: You can dye your hair before surgery, but it's important to avoid harsh chemicals and hair treatments close to the surgery date as they can affect the healing process. Walking post-surgery: If your doctor recommends it, you can use walking sticks to assist you in walking. Non-weight bearing exercises: It's best to consult with your doctor to know what kind of exercises are safe for you after surgery. COVID, flu, tetanus: It's important to follow the recommended guidelines and get vaccinated for COVID-19, flu, and tetanus if you have not done so. Kitchen things: A hand blender can be used for puréeing food.

It's not uncommon for some people to continue to have the habit of snacking, even after weight loss surgery. However, it's important to make sure that the snacks you choose are in line with your bariatric diet and do not sabotage your weight loss goals. You can try to determine if the snacking is related to hunger or if it's a habit or emotional response. If you feel it's the latter, you may want to consider seeking the help of a therapist or counselor to work through any underlying emotional issues. Additionally, finding new activities to occupy your time, such as exercise or hobbies, can help reduce the urge to snack. The BariatricPal Store carries a huge selection of Bariatric friendly Protein Snacks & Desserts at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/bariatric-high-protein-low-calorie-snacks-and-desserts Here are some other bariatric-friendly ideas as well: Chips and Crunchy Snacks: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-chips-and-crunchy-protein-snacks Chocolate Bars & Candies: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/bariatric-friendly-chocolate-bars-chocolate-candies Cakes, Cookies & Wafers: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/cookies-wafers Sugar-Free Candy: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/sugar-free-candy Cheese Snacks: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/cheese-snacks Meat & Jerky Snacks: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/meat-snacks Fish Snacks: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/fish-snacks Protein Bars: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-bars Pretzels: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/pretzels Nuts: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/nut-snacks

Migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, including diet, stress, changes in sleep patterns, and hormonal changes. It's not uncommon for people to experience an increase in migraines during a change in diet or lifestyle, such as the pre-op diet for bariatric surgery. If you're experiencing an increase in migraines, it's important to discuss this with your doctor, who can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment options. In some cases, they may also recommend keeping a food diary to help identify any specific triggers.

As a diabetic, it's important to closely monitor your blood sugar levels and work with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively. Avoiding sugar-sweetened beverages and drinking water can help prevent sudden drops in blood sugar. Premier Protein, although it's not the best quality protein, offers several protein drink options that are free from caffeine, including their shakes in Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry flavors. Additionally, it may be helpful to eat small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day to maintain stable blood sugar levels. It's important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a plan that works best for you.

There are many ways you can document your weight loss journey after gastric sleeve surgery. Here are a few suggestions: Monthly Photos: Take a photo of yourself in the same spot and clothing every month, just like you mentioned. This will give you a visual representation of your progress and can be motivating. Journal: Keeping a journal can be helpful in tracking your thoughts, feelings, and experiences throughout your journey. You can write about your challenges, successes, and what you have learned. Food Diary: Document what you eat, how much, and how you feel after each meal. This can help you identify patterns and make changes to your diet as needed. Video Diary: Consider recording a short video each week or month to document your progress and share your story. Remember, this journey is about you and your health, and it's important to find what works best for you in terms of documenting and tracking your progress.

Here are some tips that might help you manage this change: Listen to your body: Pay attention to the signals your body is sending you, such as hunger and fullness cues. Eat slowly: Chew your food well and take small bites to allow your brain to catch up with your stomach. Stop eating when you're full: Don't try to eat more just because you're used to feeling full in the past. Avoid high-volume, low-nutrient foods: Foods that are high in sugar or empty calories can be tempting, but they won't fill you up and may contribute to overeating. Drink water regularly: Staying hydrated can help you feel full and prevent overeating. Keep a food journal: Writing down what you eat and when you eat it can help you identify patterns and prevent overeating. Remember, everyone's journey is different, and it may take some time to adjust to the changes in your body. Be patient with yourself and stay focused on your goals.

It's not uncommon to experience some bruising and swelling after gastric bypass surgery, but it's always best to check with your surgeon if you have any concerns. The bruise on your stomach could be due to the placement of the incisions or the handling of the tissues during the procedure. Regarding the dizziness and hot flashes, it's possible that they could be related to low blood pressure, which can occur after surgery. This is because the body needs time to adjust to the changes in fluid and electrolyte levels. It's also possible that you could be feeling fatigued or experiencing some dehydration, which can contribute to these symptoms. It's important to follow your surgeon's instructions for post-operative care and to report any concerns to them as soon as possible. They will be able to evaluate your symptoms and determine the best course of action. In the meantime, make sure to drink plenty of fluids and rest as much as possible to help your body recover from the surgery.

I understand that you are feeling overwhelmed and regretful after your weight loss surgery. It sounds like you went through a difficult and confusing time both before and after the surgery, and it's understandable that you are feeling frustrated and sad about the experience. You mentioned several points in your message, and I'd like to address each one: Pre-surgery preparation: It sounds like you did not feel fully prepared for the surgery, both in terms of understanding the prerequisites and the potential physical and emotional effects of the surgery. This can be a common experience for people who undergo bariatric surgery, as the process can be complex and confusing. Hospital experience: The experience you had in the hospital sounds particularly challenging, with language barriers, physical discomfort, and a lack of support from the medical staff. This can be difficult to manage and can impact one's recovery and overall feelings about the surgery. Eating habits and diet: The changes in your eating habits and diet can be a significant adjustment, especially when combined with the physical side effects of the surgery. It's understandable that you are feeling frustrated with having to eat smaller portions and chew food thoroughly, as well as the headaches and nausea that come with eating. Mental and emotional impact: Your mention of having a history of eating disorders is important, as bariatric surgery can bring up old thoughts and feelings related to self-harm and negative self-talk. It's important to have a support system in place and to reach out for help if you need it. Overall, it's clear that you are going through a difficult time and that your experience with bariatric surgery has not been what you expected or hoped for. I would encourage you to reach out to your bariatric surgeon or a mental health professional for support and guidance. They can help you understand the physical and emotional changes you are experiencing and provide you with tools to manage them.

Here are some additional items you might consider adding to your monthly order list: Greek yogurt: A good source of protein and calcium. Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, and other nuts are a healthy snack that can help you meet your protein needs. Hard-boiled eggs: A convenient and portable source of protein. Berries: Fresh or frozen berries are a healthy and low-calorie snack. Vegetables: Carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes, and other vegetables are a healthy and low-calorie snack. Low-fat cheese: A good source of calcium and protein. Deli turkey or chicken breast: A low-fat source of protein that can be used in salads or sandwiches. Nut butters: Almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter can be used as a spread or added to smoothies. Whole grain crackers or rice cakes: A low-calorie snack that can be topped with nut butter, cheese, or avocado. Meal replacement bars: A convenient option for when you're on the go and need a quick and balanced meal. Also, check out The BariatricPal Store! They carry over 7,500 Bariatric friendly products for pre and post-op! Check them out at https://Store.BariatricPal.com.

Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing procedure for many people and can lead to significant weight loss and improved health. However, like any major surgery, it also comes with its own set of risks and challenges. It's understandable to have concerns and feel overwhelmed by the information you're reading online. However, it's important to keep in mind that not all experiences are the same and that many people have had positive outcomes from bariatric surgery. It's best to discuss your concerns with your bariatric surgeon and to ask questions about the procedure, the risks, and the recovery process. Your surgeon can provide you with personalized information and guidance based on your individual needs and medical history. Ultimately, the decision to have bariatric surgery is a personal one and should be based on a careful consideration of the benefits and risks, as well as a thorough discussion with your doctor. With the right support and preparation, many people are able to achieve their weight loss goals and improve their overall health.

It can be challenging to work in an environment with a lot of junk food, especially when you're trying to change your eating habits. However, there are some steps you can take to make it easier: Plan ahead: Pack healthy meals and snacks to bring to work with you. This way, you'll have healthy options readily available when you feel hungry. Surround yourself with positive influences: Try to seek out coworkers who have similar goals and interests in healthy eating. Joining a weight loss support group or finding an accountability partner can also be helpful. Practice mindful eating: Take the time to sit down and enjoy your meals, rather than eating at your desk or on the go. Pay attention to the flavors, textures, and smells of your food, and savor each bite. Be prepared to say no: It's okay to decline junk food offerings from coworkers. Be polite but firm in your resolve to stick to your healthy eating plan. Avoid temptation: If there's a particular junk food item that you find especially tempting, try to avoid it altogether or limit your exposure to it. Stay positive: Remember why you're making these changes and focus on the benefits you'll experience, both in terms of your health and your weight loss goals. By making small changes and being proactive about your health, you can overcome the challenges of working in an environment with a lot of junk food and achieve your weight loss goals. Good luck!

It's good that you're taking a proactive approach to your health and seeking clarification from both your endoscopy doctor and your bariatric surgeon. Intestinal metaplasia is a condition in which normal cells in the stomach lining are replaced with cells that resemble those found in the small intestine. It can be a risk factor for developing stomach cancer, and it's important to monitor it closely. If your endoscopy doctor has recommended another endoscopy, it's a good idea to follow through with it. The procedure will allow your doctor to get a better look at your stomach lining and determine if there have been any changes since the previous endoscopy. In terms of bariatric surgery, it's important to discuss your specific case with your bariatric surgeon, who can provide you with the best guidance for your individual situation. They can also answer any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure and help you make an informed decision. If you have intestinal metaplasia, your bariatric surgeon may recommend a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RNY) instead of a sleeve gastrectomy. The RNY procedure involves rerouting the small intestine to a small pouch created from the stomach, which can help reduce the risk of developing stomach cancer. It's important to follow your doctor's recommendations and to discuss any concerns you may have with them. With the right care and support, you can achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health.