Happy Holidays and a Healthier New Year

First of all, we'd like to wish every single person reading this a happy holiday next week. Whatever holidays you celebrate, at the very least it's a day or two off and enjoying it is something we all deserve.  Heaven knows, most of us work hard enough and, with everything that's been happening, there's plenty to be concerned about. Still, for people who have had or are considering weight loss surgery, the holidays can be a special source of stress.

Every year around this time there are many, many articles published about how to "survive" holiday events and special meals for folks who are concerned about their weight. We certainly understand that it's important to keep any holiday indulgences under control, especially for people who have recently had any type of obesity surgery. At the exact same time, there is a tendency to possibly over dramatize the dilemmas of holiday consumption and loose track of the actual holiday itself.

Really, whether you're contemplating or have recently had a sleeve gastrectomy or another bariatric procedure or are simply trying to slim down or keep your weight under control, the ultimate solution is to get things into a healthier balance. Food -- even food we think of as "fattening" or less than terribly healthy -- has its place as long as we don't turn what should be an occasional treat into a regular habit. The tendency of those of us with weight issues is to put too much emphasis on eating -- or not eating -- these treats. There is more to life than consuming things or not consuming them.

The secret is to simply enjoy a multifaceted life filled with activities you love -- and people you love too. Most of us tend to overindulge the most when we're bored or unfulfilled.So, though we realize achieving total fulfillment is rather a tall order for anyone, making the most of our lives in every way we can manage really should at least be the goal for all of us. As for holiday meals, here's a thought: What's more important to you, the food on your table or the people you're sharing it with?

Happy holidays, everyone.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Impacts the Family Unit in Meaningful Ways

This week, our clinic recognizes our December Patient Ambassadors, husband and wife team Roger and Mayra Rosales from Oxnard, California. Their story has now been shared in hundreds of publications throughout the country. A year ago to the week, the two received gastric sleeve surgeries from Dr. Feiz & Associates. Although it has only been a year, the benefits of their surgeries have been extremely far-reaching. The two are younger adults (Roger is 30 and Mayra, 29), but prior to the surgeries, both spoke of being sick and often dealing with back pain and headaches. These days, the two feel quite healthy, keying in on exercise and healthy eating as a result of working with Dr. Feiz and his team. At this point, Roger has lost 150 pounds, and Mayra has lost 80!

The health benefits of sleeve surgery and the FDA-compliant LAP Band are obvious; but a case like the Rosales' demonstrates the impact weight loss surgery has on familial relationships. During our recent talk with Mayra, she related that her nine-year-old son was embarrassed by her excessive weight. Now, he often invites his mother to his school events and has even told her that some of his classmates thought she was his older sister! Additionally, the gastric sleeve surgery really fanned the flame of romance for the couple. These days, Mayra and Roger regularly make time for weekend date nights.

Through listening to the Rosales' story, we see that bariatric surgery can improve the overall happiness of the family unit. If you would like to read more about sleeve gastrectomy from Dr. Feiz, visit the gastric sleeve surgery page on our website. 

Couples with Bariatric Surgery

Our patient ambassador here at Dr. Feiz & Associates for the month of December is actually two people: a married couple who both received a sleeve gastrectomy at the end of last year and have found amazing results. We'll talk more about their journey and success in a future blog post, but it piqued our interest in couples who receive bariatric surgery together.

Doing some brief internet research, we found many inspiring stories of couples who have undergone these procedures together: a couple in Poughkeepsie who got gastric bypass surgeries on the same day, two in the Bronx doing the same, Lisa Lampanelli and her husband receiving the gastric sleeve 8 weeks apart, and many, many more. The reasons for getting the surgeries together seem to take on a deeper meaning for many of these couples; not only do they want to live longer, they want to live longer together. Plus, these couples are lucky to have another avenue for support throughout their weight loss journey that many don't have.

It's also been found that a couple benefits from weight loss surgery even if only one person in the relationship gets it (this effect even carries through to children, if the couple has any). Part of this is that the family has a new idea of what nutrition and health can be. Dr. Feiz knows that any weight loss surgery in California he performs requires a fresh outlook on eating, exercise, mental health, and much more. He is willing to meet with any person interested in a bariatric surgery, either through a complimentary consultation or through a free weight loss seminar. Call 310-855-8058 for more information!

Surviving the Weight Loss Downs and Ups

The phrase "ups and downs" is bit confusing when we're talking about the lifelong battle to keep our weight under control. That's because, well, when you're weight is down that's more likely to feel like what we'd usually call an "up" and when it's up, you're quite likely to feel pretty down! Still, those of us who've had weight loss surgery should understand that fluctuations both in our behavior and our actual weight is normal.

There are a great many adjustments to deal with in the wake of a weight loss surgery, whether it's a lap band, a gastric sleeve, or something else. The fact of the matter is that while modern day obesity surgery is a genuine medical miracle, it isn't quite on the level of being a magic wand. The battle to watch our diet and keep up an overall healthy lifestyle will continue. The important thing is not to panic every time we experience a minor weight gain or "fall off the wagon" when it comes to what we should be eating.

The other important thing is to try to view the struggle not as a never-ending slog or struggle, but almost as a kind of game in which you will win by gradually improving your habits. The prize, of course, is a better life but the important thing -- and this might sound a little strange -- is to have fun while your doing it.

Food for Thought: Guidelines for Healthy Eating this Holiday Season

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Dr. Feiz & Associates trust that all of our patients had an enjoyable Thanksgiving Day! For many of us, the celebration extends through the four-day weekend. As family and friends come together, food can become the focus of the social time. If it was your turn to cook the feast this year, you probably felt more prepared. If another family member is heading up the meal, you don’t exactly know what you will be dealing with. This can be intimidating for those who recently chose the right path to health with a bariatric surgery from Dr. Feiz.

Although Thanksgiving is over, you may have many other holiday potlucks and dinner on your calendar. But you don’t have to be intimidated by what’s being served. Just apply the same rules and behaviors that you more strictly enforced at the start of your weight loss plan. Give yourself a mental pep-talk just before the event. Tell yourself that you will watch your portions, focusing on the nutritious vegetable options and staying away from the high calorie foods that are offered. Drink plenty of water. Don’t view food as the centerpiece of the event. Think about catching up with friends, topics for conversation. Sit in an area where the banquet table is not directly in your field of view. Think about talking to a fellow bariatric patient for moral support.

When you received your FDA-approved LAP Band procedure or sleeve gastrectomy, you made a commitment to eat healthily. You can keep this promise to yourself year-round. Dr. Feiz & Associates are here to follow up with patients’ dietary concerns. Feel free to give us a call this holiday season if we can be of assistance.    

The Many Benefits of a Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Dr. Michael Feiz, M.D., FACS is one of only a few accomplished bariatric surgeons who are qualified to perform a micro gastric sleeve surgery, employing the single-incision STARR Treatment. Dr. Feiz, who has performed numerous sleeve surgeries and FDA-compliant Lap Band procedures, recommends the STARR Treatment for qualified patients who are concerned about scarring or marks following the operation. Many potential patients are anxious about scars, but with gastric sleeve surgery, those receiving the procedure will only be left with one small mark about the size of a dime, contrasting with the standard laparoscopic method, which only requires a couple small incisions.

With all of the positive feedback from trustworthy medical sources, the gastric sleeve surgery is an excellent choice for the person contemplating a weight-loss procedure. Both young and old people suffering from obesity might be good candidates. The presence of a gastric sleeve may have a positive effect on glucose levels for patients with type 2 diabetes, and the procedure may improve a person’s candidacy for organ transplant. And of course, if you go by the testimonials of Dr. Feiz’s past patients, there is no denying that the gastric sleeve expedites weight loss. The patient will not experience the daily, sometimes hourly, cravings they struggled with prior to their weight loss surgery.

To set up a FREE consultation to see if gastric sleeve surgery might be right for you, please contact our office today.

Breaking the Chain of Obesity?

We're all familiar with the reality that certain health problems seem to be passed from generation to generation. For reasons that we have usually assumed related to be a combination of environment and genetics, obesity has been among those issues we always assumed that, to some degree or another, would always tend to run in families. However, a really hopeful and rather amazing study presented regarding the possible effects of weight loss surgery on an obese mother's offspring presented at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress points to some potentially very exciting conclusions and a possible long-term solution.

Although we have to mention the usual cautions that these findings about obesity surgery are still highly preliminary and there may be differences in outcomes based on differing types of weight loss surgery, the study appears to indicate that the children of mothers who have lost weight through bariatric surgery could be benefiting from some significantly improved health prospects. The really fascinating part, however, is the changes appear to be happening at the genetic level. In other words, it might turn out that, that a significantly overweight woman who loses weight prior to her pregnancy could be decreasing the risk of obesity, and its many related health risks, in her children. Moreover, the reason for this is certain very subtle changes in particular genes which may tend to predispose children to being overweight, or not being overweight. According to the new scientific discipline of epigenetics, It increasingly appears that environmental factors, perhaps including the environment of the womb in the case of unborn children, can turn genes "off" and "on."

So, will women losing large amounts of weight -- either with or without bariatric surgery -- by itself prevent obesity and other issues in children? It's too early to say, but it's definitely an area of study worth paying real attention to.

Dr. Feiz Corroborates Cleveland Clinic Findings

The Cleveland Clinic has published a report in the medical journal, Heart, that suggests all types of weight loss surgery reduce or eliminate factors that contribute to poor heart health. Not only do these operations help a patient lose weight and alleviate conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, they also work faster than alternative methods (such as medications, weight management, or a combination of the two) in preventing strokes and heart disease. We here at Dr. Feiz & Associates think this is great news for the people who turn to bariatric surgery for a whole life change in health.

After all, many come to Dr. Michael Feiz, MD, FACS because they have tried everything possible to lose weight and they are concerned about the direction in which their lives are heading. His procedures, including sleeve gastrectomy and lap band in Los Angeles, definitely help patients lose weight and feel better about their appearances; however, the operations are for more than physical appearance. We've found that weight loss surgery helps a person's mental health and self-esteem and also lessons or cures the symptoms of sleep apnea, diabetes, and many more conditions. Call Dr. Feiz today with any questions at 310-817-6911 or 800-868-5946.

Was Jessica Simpson Turned Away from Lap Band Procedure?

Whether this is solely a product of the rumor mill or if it is grounded in fact, we don't know. Nonetheless, some are reporting that Jessica Simpson went to two different doctors attempting to get a lap band procedure. It was said that they both turned her down, citing that she may not have been prepared for the lifestyle changes that such an operation would entail. We here at Dr. Feiz & Associates don't want to repute or support these rumors, but we are glad that this story is getting some attention in the press. Many detractors of bariatric surgery think it is a procedure that people just get on a whim. But the reality is quite the opposite; this is a lifestyle changing operation that requires not only preparation, but also a dedication following the procedure.
 
To qualify for a lap band in Beverly Hills from Michael Feiz, MD, FACS one must above all be mentally prepared for surgery and for the changes you'll have to make after the procedure (including a restricted, nutrition rich diet and exercise). Besides that, qualifications for an FDS compliant lap band from Dr. Feiz include a certain BMI number, a look into your medical history, a history of documented weight loss attempts, a psychological evaluation, and a nutritional consultation. For more information, please arrange a free consultation with a specialist at Dr. Feiz and Associates by calling 310-817-6911.

More Than an Amazing Picture

While we are happy to say that we help an awful lot of people here at the clinic for weight loss surgery, but it's not every day that we get a patient who has a positive attitude to rival that of Tyneda Dosek. As you can see by her pictures above, Tyneda has made some remarkable strides in terms of losing weight and keeping it off, but there's more to it than that. We could talk more about her, but why we don't we let her testimonial speak for itself?

Tyneda was looking down a long road, and she didn't like what she saw ahead of her.

I tried to embrace my obesity and live with being "big boned." Once the scales tipped at 278 pounds, and [being] almost 6 years away from being 40 years old, I knew I needed to make a drastic change. In February 2010 I went to a seminar with Dr. Feiz. I was both intrigued and excited.

By September 2010, I was getting my surgery. My "Ah Ha" moment was when I no longer had to shop in the plus size section. When I go snowboarding in the winter, I can board all day without getting winded and sore from just one run. I never thought I could have this much energy! Today I am loving life.

I have lost 113 lbs and wear a size 10.Dr. Feiz reassured I was doing everything right and I look fantastic. I truly feel like a new person and I thank Dr. Feiz and his team for all their support along my life journey.

Tyneda has really applied herself and, what's more, she's really enjoying the results of all her very hard work and the fact that she looks, quite frankly, kind of amazing. As medical professionals, we focus so much on various types of weight loss surgery and their the crucial technical aspects of our work that it's easy to get lost in the details sometimes. Obesity surgery for weight loss is obviously difficult and detailed work, and it's sometimes too easy to forget why we do what we. Then, we look at the truly amazing results that Tyneda has achieved, and how she's so brilliantly altered the direction of her life, and it reminds us all over again why we do what we do.

Lisa Lampanelli Joins List of Celebs Who Have Gotten Bariatric Surgery

You may know Lisa Lampanelli from her stand-up career (she's been on quite a few Comedy Central roasts) or from Celebrity Apprentice (she placed 4th), but now you may know her as something else: successful patient of a sleeve gastrectomy. It's been reported in InTouch Weekly and other publications that she had the procedure in April of this year, saying that "I've tried it all, and there's no shame in taking the next step." Since having the procedure, Lisa Lampanelli has lost 80 pounds and feels "so much healthier."

Ms. Lampanelli in 2011

We here at Dr. Feiz and Associates applaud Ms. Lampanelli for taking the "next step" and reclaiming her health. The procedure she opted for, the gastric sleeve, reduces the size of the stomach surgically. We think this procedure was perfect for Ms. Lampanelli as it not only reduces the capacity for food in the stomach, it also has been shown to reduce the presence of a chemical that causes hunger.

That being said, a gastric sleeve procedure isn't right for every person who is contemplating a lap band procedure.Your unique circumstances could make you a better fit for a lap band or gastric bypass; it really all depends. Luckily, Dr. Feiz is an expert the field of weight loss in Los Angeles and can speak realistically and compassionately to you about your options. Call Dr. Feiz at 800-868-5946 to set up your free consultation to find out what bariatric surgery can do for you.

An Election of Another Sort: Lap Band vs. Gastric Sleeve Surgery

There are two candidates; One is already in place, but the results that candidate promised haven’t really come to fruition (although it’s arguably not the candidate’s fault). The other, the challenger offers solutions of another sort, but there would be some sacrifices. The challenger is dedicated to a quick reduction in the size of the body they will represent.

Before you cast your ballot, make sure you’ve read carefully about the candidates.

Of course this race is between gastric sleeve surgery and another LAP Band to replace the dysfunctional Lap Band you already have in place. If your previous bariatric didn’t make these options clear, or didn’t listen to your medical worries and your weight loss surgery goals, you might be conducting an “election” in your mind. Of course, unlike with the presidential race, there’s the option of choosing neither.

At Dr. Feiz and associates, we don’t often recommend removal without revision if you plan to stay on track toward weight loss. Discomfort with your LAP Band can mean an urgent desire to “just get it out!” but take the long view if you can. Despite the daunting commitment, revision with the gastric sleeve is getting consistently great response from patients.

Doctor, Heal Thyself

It's been a very long time since it was common to see busy doctors chain-smoking as they went through their rounds, but the sad fact of the matter is that many of us docs don't always practice what we preach when it comes to a good diet. The truth of the matter is that no one is perfect all the time and even a pretty good physcian known for his work on weight loss surgery in California (no names!) has been known to indulge in some food items that might be less than completely healthy on rare occasions.

Still, as an article in today's Los Angele Times reminds us, too many doctors regularly indulge in "pizza and burgers" and other highly caloric, high fat foods without much nutritional value -- and with a tendency to producing the kind of serious obesity that all medical professionals are working so hard to combat these days. In fact, a group of researchers have just published a piece in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), specifically calling on doctors to ban together to get hospitals and other organizations to start eliminating junk foods at cafeterias and elsewhere.

The fact of the matter is that before every lap band in Beverly Hills and sleeve gastrectomy was preceded by decades of usually very unhealthy eating. It's one thing to criticize it, but it's really time those of us in the medical establishment really started leading by example.

Social Media Allows Unprecedented Access to Patient Testimonials

The rise of the internet has been a marvelous thing for those seeking a fuller story on bariatric surgical procedures that they are considering. Ten years ago even, it was hard to get a patient's point of view about an operation and the lifestyle changes they have to face. Now, however, there are many resources available online that are free and accessible, whether it be for lap band, sleeve gastrectomy, or any other type of bariatric procedure.

Blogging, of course, is the most popular way post-bariatric surgery persons share their story. After all, we are blogging now in order to increase the dialogue and knowledge about weight loss procedures. But, also, many of our readers have their own journals online, sharing their personal stories about weight loss (feel free to share your links in the comments!).

There are other resources, too, that put more scrutiny on patients who have gotten bariatric procedures. Stories can be shared on Yelp, people have hosted forums on Reddit, and even whole Twitter accounts are dedicated to shedding some light on what it takes to shed some pounds.

This isn't to say that hopeful patients should diagnose themselves; quite the opposite. Only a consultation with a qualified doctor can help you get a better understanding of the procedures. Dr. Michael Feiz is a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in surgeries for weight loss in Los Angeles. His compassionate, realistic approach means that people get the truth about what to expect when it comes to bariatric surgery and realize that it's not a solution in itself. Call his office at (310) 855-8058 for a free consultation.

Bariatric surgery has high rate of preventing Type 2 diabetes

A study recently published in The New England Journal of Medicine discusses the rate of Type 2 diabetes in patients who get bariatric surgery versus those trying to lose weight with diet and exercise. It found that, over a 15 year period, those opting for the weight loss procedure were 80 percent less likely to develop Type 2 diabetes. The statistic grew to 90 percent when it came to those persons considered prediabetic. These findings don't surprise Dr. Feiz, expert in surgeries for weight loss in Los Angeles. A bariatric procedure is not only a way for patients to reclaim their health; it also is a vital tool for those who have tried everything to lose weight and have felt the consequences of peaks and valleys in their weight loss.lap

The source we read about the study didn't say which bariatric surgeries were included in the study. However, we speculate they were lap band, gastric bypass, and sleeve gastrectomy. These all have differing benefits and risks; speaking with Dr. Feiz at one of his free consultations can help you determine if any are appropriate for you. One technique he has perfected is the micro lap band surgery, which involves only small incisions that don't leave large scars.

Jets Coach Rex Ryan Lost 106 Pounds with Lap Band Procedure

Celebrities from many walks of life have been coming forward about getting lap band surgery this year; for example, Carnie Wilson (of Wilson Phillips) and Laren Manzo (of the Real Housewives of New Jersey) have recently mentioned having the procedure done and subsequently losing weight. In the past month, a celebrity on the other side of the gender divide has come out about his lap band surgery,  head coach of the New York Jets Rex Ryan. Undergoing the procedure back in March of 2010, he claims he has lost 106 pounds since.

We salute these celebrities for seizing their health and discussing it openly. While a lap band procedure might not be right for every overweight person, this media coverage does shed light on bariatric surgery's place in the national struggle against obesity. Dr. Michael Feiz has been performing bariatric surgeries, including the lap band, in Los Angeles  for years and can help you determine if you are a suitable candidate for any of these procedures. Call his office today for a free consultation at 310-855-8058.

Bariatric Surgery May Not Decrease Bone Density

Studies have shown that people with an increased BMI tend to have higher levels of bone density. Some scientists were worried that bariatric surgeries, such as gastric bypass, would diminish this amount of mineral matter within the bones. This would create a problem as lower bone density is often linked to the risk of fractures, broken bones, and osteoporosis. We here at Dr. Feiz and Associates are happy to read about a recent study, completed at the University of Southampton, that proposes that, at least for the first three years after a bariatric surgery, there is no greater risk for broken bones. There could be, however, a potential for lower bone density after the three years. We will have to wait for more studies on the issue; this is a unique study and it will be interesting to see what other schools and scientists determine.


These concerns and others can be openly discussed with Dr. Feiz, surgeon extraordinaire for bariatric surgeries, like lap band, in Los Angeles. Keeping up to date on important studies like this one means that, during the important post-surgical meetings with Dr. Feiz, he can be sure to closely monitor your health, assuage your fears, and ensure that you are taking care of yourself nutritionally in order to curb loss of bone density. After all, procedures like sleeve gastrectomy are for patients who want to reclaim their health, not diminish it!

Hospitals that Perform the Most Bariatric Surgeries Have Fewer Complications

A recent article in the Los Angeles Times discussed a study on bariatric procedures recently released by Healthgrades, an "independent healthcare ratings company based in Denver."  The article suggests that hospitals have varying rates of complications when it comes to bariatric surgery, as opposed to some procedures where the risks are similar across the board. It was also noted that hospitals that perform the most bariatric surgeries have the lowest rates of complications. The implication, then, is that those seeking bariatric surgery should go to a place that does more than other hospitals.

This is no surprise as surgeons like Dr. Feiz are constantly learning more and more about new aspects of surgeries for weight loss in Los Angeles. For example, Dr. Feiz takes advantage of the many types of bariatric surgeries and gives his patients the personal care to match the required surgery for their needs. He's also a practitioner of the innovative, and less invasive, laparoscopic sleeve surgery that uses smaller incisions. Visit his website for a consultation and to see his schedule of free presentations on surgeries like the lap band and gastric bypass.

Obesity's Consequences for Society

As bariatric surgeons, we sometimes can't help but observe the controversies that occur over the obesity issue in America today. The subject of weight loss in Los Angeles and all across America seems to stay in the media day in and day out. While op-ed pieces such as this lament the lack of solutions to these problems, there are patients who have found their solution with the help of a skilled bariatric surgeon.

Scott W. Atlas of the Philadelphia Inquirer wrote a controversial op-ed piece today, pointing out some of the connections between smoking and obesity as health risks. I leave it to you to determine if the comparison is fair: 

He points out that smoking is stigmatized, and smokers themselves are socially ostracized in spite of the fact that they are making a personal decision. Perhaps consequently, rates of smoking in the U.S. have declined by 20 percent in the past 15 years alone, while the obesity rate has increased by 48 percent. Mr. Atlas seems to be of the opinion that weight loss is just as pressing an issue as smoking. Is this a fair conclusion to draw?

Furthermore, Mr. Atlas feels that obesity is not just a personal risk, since 5-10 percent of medical spending is obesity-related, and half of this amount is spent by Medicare and Medicaid, in other words, the taxpayers. He quotes an estimate of $550 billion over the next 20 decades if obesity could be curbed. 

He concludes that "Facilitating clinical trials and streamlining approval of innovative treatments are also important." Bariatric procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy, however, are already approved, and already achieving startling success.

Lap Band to Sleeve Gastrectomy Conversion Picks up Stragglers

Many patients undergoing bariatric surgery opt for the lap band procedure because it can be an effective tool for dramatic weight loss. It's also one of the least invasive bariatric surgeries available. Yet, even though this surgery has had a life-changing effect on many patients, many can feel that it's not adequate enough. Some lap band patients, though they have a stomach with a reduced capacity, have a hard time feeling full. This is why a percentage of lap band patients turn to Dr. Feiz for a lap band to sleeve gastrectomy conversion.

The lap band has a reputation for predominantly being a behavioral modification procedure as it physically restricts the amount of food a person can eat. On the other hand, sleeve gastrectomy surgery  does that as well while also targeting the hormonal aspect of hunger. A gastric sleeve suppresses the hunger-stimulating hormone Ghrelin, allowing a patient to feel fuller faster. When a patient doesn't get their expected result from a lap band (usually because they still have problems restricting their portion sizes), they get the conversion surgery. This is a huge decision to make, practically as serious as the decision to get bariatric surgery in the first place. If you're considering this surgery, you should consult with an experienced, caring, and honest doctor like Dr. Feiz to discuss your options.

Weight Loss Drug Qsymia vs Bariatric Surgery

Recently, the FDA approved a weight loss drug for the first time in 13 years. Qsymia, a combination of the appetite suppressant phentermine and the anticonvulsant drug topiramate, is being marketed towards obese patients and overweight patients with certain health concerns. While Dr. Feiz and his associates may eventually prescribe Qsymia, they question its efficacy especially when compared to a surgery like sleeve gastrectomy.

Now, those considering weight loss in Los Angeles wonder if this pill can take the place of bariatric surgery for those dangerously concerned about their health. As mentioned in our recent article, "Now It's Time for Science to Take a Crack at Weight Loss," Qsymia promises a 10% excess weight loss per year. This is good for any patient who needs to lose weight; however, it pales to the effects of gastric sleeve which Dr. Feiz estimates removes at least 70% excess weight loss. Also, many current prescriptions of drugs similar to those found in Qsymia are only prescribed temporarily, causing some to wonder what their long term effects are on weight loss. Nonetheless, both are about reclaiming one's health and if Qsymia happens to change lives for the better then it can be a powerful tool for surgeons like Dr. Feiz to better help their patients.

Italian Doctor Puts His Faith in Gastric Bypass

A 10-year study out of Naples, Italy, suggests that long-term weight loss results from gastric bypass are "statistically superior" to those of gastric banding. This small-scale study out of San Giovanni Bosco Hospital offered that lap band patients had a mean loss of excess body weight of 46%, while gastric bypass patients had one of 69%. While, yes, gastric bypass has been more effective here, we should not forget that both of these results are incredible and these patients have begun to live healthier lives, regardless of their numerical weight loss.

That being said, gastric bypass isn't always the appropriate bariatric surgery for everyone. Your weight loss surgery needs to be customized for your specific goals and health concerns. Also, some surgeries inherently come with more complications, so lesser-invasive procedures (such as a sleeve gastrectomy) should be considered for those with severe health issues. Dr. Feiz and his associates are available to answer your questions about any type of bariatric surgery, so come to them to discuss your options.