Indianapolis Surgical Weight Loss

Considering a Weight Loss Surgery Program?

Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Lisa Buckalew

When searching for a weight loss program, the first place to start is by asking your family physician for a recommendation. Your doctor should be able to provide you with several options for programs that other patients have found to be successful.

Ideally, you should do a lot of research, ask a lot of questions, and find a weight loss program that you are comfortable with (even excited about participating in!)

Here are the basic things you should consider when researching weight loss programs:

How much weight do you wish to lose? Your program should encourage you to set realistic and attainable goals.
How much support will you receive from the program? Find a program that offers support in ways that suit your lifestyle (online classes, personal counseling, support groups, etc.)
Can the program be customized to meet your lifestyle? The program you choose should fit the way you live. If they simply make you eat things you don't like, it will be hard to stick with it.
What kind of maintenance program is provided? The best programs include a maintenance regime that focuses on helping you change your eating and exercise patterns.

If you would like to learn more tips about searching for a program, please click here.

Celebrating My "Surgiversary," Part I

Tuesday, November 10, 2009 by Traci Baker

October 2009 marked my two year re-birth date! I’m still learning to be a Bariatric patient even after two years into my weight loss journey. Some thoughts I’d like to share:

Bari bellies are a sensitive piece of real estate! It is crucial that I respect my piece of real estate and give it the proper nourishment/vitamins it needs. Protein, protein and more protein along with hydration or I’m feeling down in the dumps!

A lifestyle/behavior change is a necessary daily practice. If I choose to continue my old behaviors I’m choosing to sabotage myself. Life happens and when it does I have the choice to repeat my old behavior or make the better/healthier choice in those moments. These are times when I find myself reaching out to a friend.

I still have good days, great days and bad days.

I truly believe in having “Safe People” in my life who understand what I’m going through as a Bariatric patient. I need people who can relate with me physically, emotionally and spiritually to help support me while being genuine.

I have to be mindful of head hunger because it is always lingering. Each day is different and sometimes it can be very challenging to overcome the head hunger. This is another time when I know I need to change the scenery or reach out for help.

Honesty and open communication is essential with my surgeon, dietitian, and my support people along with myself. Being sincere helps me stay on track and not self-sabotage. Denying the truth only hurts me.

Handful Harry is a demon on my shoulder who will probably always exist and is a constant reminder to me that the operation was performed on my stomach not my head.

Check out Part II on Friday!

Join us for seminar on Saturday!

Thursday, November 5, 2009 by Andy Pollen

If you have been anxious to learn more about how bariatric weight loss surgery can change your life, then join Clarian Bariatrics' Indianapolis surgeons and staff on Saturday, November 7 for a FREE informational seminar.

You, and your family and friends, are invited to learn more about the different types of weight loss surgery procedures (Gastric Bypass and Lap Band), learn about the insurance process and ask questions about the health risks caused by obesity.

The seminar is from 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and we cannot wait to meet you! Learn more and RSVP, by clicking here!

Don't Forget Support Group Tonight!

Tuesday, November 3, 2009 by Sarah Muntel

The holidays are right around the corner! Holidays are different if you’ve had bariatric surgery or if you’re getting ready for it. Do you have a plan in place to make sure you have a Healthy and Happy Holiday? Then come to support group tonight!

Date: Tuesday, November 3
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Clarian Bariatrics

This group is perfect for all pre and post surgical patients and their support people. See you later!

Daily Inspiration by Katie Jay

Friday, October 30, 2009 by Traci Baker

You have chosen a new way of life with weight loss surgery, a new way that isn’t supposed to include a lot of unhealthy eating. But as Halloween approaches, and other holidays follow

close behind, your sense will be assaulted more and more with holiday treats. Are they really treats? When you look at a piece of candy and think, “Oh that looks good! One won’t hurt,” you are not contemplating treating yourself, you are contemplating sabotaging yourself.

If you really don’t want to eat things that are unhealthy for you around the holidays, think of the candy as the damaging force it really is. No matter how much we love it, sugar is NOT good for us. Eating candy is like digging a hole. One bite can be the first shovel-full of dirt. Do you really want to risk falling into that hole?

Action for the day:
Treat yourself by putting those unhealthy foods out of sight as best you can, and resolve to eat only satisfying, healthy foods today.

Types of Weight Loss Surgery:

Friday, October 30, 2009 by Lisa Buckalew

Laparoscopic surgery is a less invasive surgical option because it eliminates the need for a long incision to open the abdomen. With this procedure, a small video camera is inserted through small incisions made in the abdominal wall, and the surgeon views the procedure on a video monitor. This helps the surgeon to achieve better visualization.

Studies have shown that this type of surgery offers the following benefits:

Less pain.
Easier breathing and increased lung function.
Fewer wound complications.
Faster recovery times.

Laparoscopic procedures produce similar weight loss to open surgical methods. However, not all patients are candidates for this approach.

After Surgery

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 by Andy Pollen

Ever wonder what you can expect after bariatric weight loss surgery with Clarian Bariatrics? This video helps answer some of those questions!

The Biggest Loser and You

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 by Erin Light

Do you love watching The Biggest Loser? Whether you love the show or not, most people can agree that the participants are inspiring in their quests to get healthy and lose weight. This past year, I’ve gotten quite a few comments and questions about the show and the exercises that are performed by the participants. I haven’t faithfully watched the past few seasons, so I can’t comment directly on the training programs in the show. However, I was

sent an article recently that reviewed the exercise programs and included an interview with Bob Harper (show trainer) about how realistic the show really is when it comes to what you see on the screen.

If you want to read Bob Harper’s comments and other personal trainers thoughts on the show, check out this article.

A couple things I took away from this article:

Remember that these participants are living outside of the “real world” during this show. Think about the changes you could make if you didn’t have to work, clean the house, or take care of your family. Their jobs during this special time in their lives are to exercise, learn how to eat right, and compete in weight loss. We ask you to do all these things, but we can’t keep you here overnight. Think about how successful you are for doing all of these things while living your real life!
The exercise programs are typically extreme for the overweight population. These participants are thoroughly checked for medical issues before and during the show. They are not allowed to be a participant if they suffer from certain medical conditions. If you are ever questioning whether you should be exercising like them---think about whether or not The Biggest Loser doctors would clear you to participate.
Although the whole concept of the show is very inspiring, you have to remember that the main goal of The Biggest Loser is TV ratings and entertainment. I am the first one to admit I come to tears every time I watch the show, but I always try to remember the “TV element” of the production. We don’t see everything!
And most of all…if the show gives you positive and uplifting feelings and helps you start exercising, then keep watching! If it makes you feel inadequate or unmotivated like you could never exercise, then change the channel!

Join us for a FREE seminar in Cicero!

Monday, October 26, 2009 by Andy Pollen

Are you looking to gather more information on weight loss surgery? Have you wanted to ask questoins about bariatric surgery costs, types of weight loss surgery (including Lap Band and Gastric Bypass) and the Indiana insurance approval process?

Then consider joining us for a FREE informational weight loss seminar on Thursday October 29 at 6:30 pm in Cicero, Indiana at 1160 South Peru Street, State Road 19. You can register online at ACallToChange.org.

Also, feel free to bring as many of your friends and loved ones along to hear our Indianapolis-based bariatric surgeons discuss the process. See you there!

Types of Weight Loss Surgery: Lap Band

Saturday, October 24, 2009 by Lisa Buckalew

Restrictive operations serve only to restrict food intake and do not interfere with the normal digestive process. To perform the surgery, doctors create a small pouch at the top of the stomach where food enters from the esophagus. Initially, the pouch holds about one ounce of food and later expands to hold more. The lower outlet of the pouch has a small opening to delay the emptying of food from the pouch and cause a feeling of fullness.

Restrictive operations for obesity include the Adjustable Gastric Ban (LAP-BAND), which restricts the size of the stomach using a band.

Although restrictive operations lead to weight loss in almost all patients, they are less successful than malabsorptive operations in achieving substantial, long-term weight loss. Some patients regain weight. Others are unable to adjust their eating habits and fail to lose the desired weight. Successful results depend on the patient's willingness to adopt a long-term plan of healthy eating and regular physical activity.

Types of Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery

Friday, October 23, 2009 by Terri Hohlt

This operation is the most common and successful malabsorptive surgery. First, a small stomach pouch is created to restrict food intake. Next, a Y-shaped section of the small intestine is attached to the pouch to allow food to bypass the lower stomach, the duodenum (the first segment of the small intestine), and the first portion of the jejunum (the second segment of the small intestine). This bypass reduces the amount of calories and nutrients the body absorbs. It is the primary surgery performed by The Clarian Bariatric Center.

This operation can be performed either by a traditional open surgery or laparoscopically, a relatively new technology using a small video camera and a few customized instruments to perform surgery with minimal tissue damage. The Roux-en-Y technique is generally more effective in reversing health problems associated with severe obesity. Patients who have malabsorptive operations generally lose two-thirds of their excess weight within two years.

Why is Bariatric Surgery a Safe Option?

Friday, October 23, 2009 by Andy Pollen

Below is another popular educational video that we produced to help potential patients understand the risks and rewards of Indiana weight loss surgery. Remember, if you have additional questions, please call us at 317-275-7010 to sign up for a FREE weight loss surgery seminar.

How the Bariatric Process Works

Wednesday, October 21, 2009 by Andy Pollen

It has been several months since I posted this video, but I have had some requests to re-run some of our "What to Expect" series. Look for a few this week and next, and remember to leave a comment if you have any questions about weight loss surgery procedures, bariatric surgery costs or Indianapolis surgeons.

News article: Weight-loss surgery brings risk of iron deficiency

Saturday, October 17, 2009 by Trish Seidel

This article is just another reminder of how important it is to talk with your dietician to ensure that you are getting all the proper nutrients you need post-operatively. If you ever have a question about supplements, please call us at 317-275-7010.

Full text of this Reuters article can be found by clicking here.

Weight loss surgery can help you lose weight, but it's also likely to leave you unable to absorb iron, a new study suggests: Iron deficiency is a common problem after stomach bypass surgery to treat severe obesity -- and standard iron supplements may not be enough to prevent it in some patients.

Researchers found that among 67 Chilean women who had undergone the most common form of weight-loss surgery, 39 percent developed low blood counts, also known as anemia, within 18 months of surgery. That anemia was most often due to a deficiency in iron, which the body needs to produce healthy red blood cells that carry oxygen.

In contrast, less than two percent of the women had been anemic before surgery, the researchers report in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Join us at a FREE informational seminar tomorrow!

Friday, October 16, 2009 by Terri Hohlt

Join us for an educational seminar to speak with our surgeons, nutritionists and past patients to learn how weight loss surgery can help you gain control of your weight, regain health and start a new life.

This Saturday, October 17 from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. you are invited to visit our outpatient clinic on the northwest side of Indianapolis and have your questions answered about bariatric surgery costs, causes of obesity and sustainable weight loss options at the hands of our skilled Indianapolis staff.

If you are interested in attending, please fill out our online registration form or call 317-275-7010 or 877-275-2555 (toll free) to reserve your spot.

Who is a candidate for weight loss surgery?

Wednesday, October 14, 2009 by Terri Hohlt

The following factors will be considered in determining if you are a candidate for bariatric surgery:

You have tried to lose weight by changing your eating habits and exercise and are still severely obese.
You are unable to perform routine daily activities without being seriously affected.
You understand the procedure and the lifestyle changes you will need to make after bariatric surgery.
You are motivated to make a lifelong behavioral commitment that includes well-balanced meals and physical exercise.
You understand that this surgery won't solve all your problems, but can make you healthier -- and probably much happier.

Before patients undergo surgery for morbid obesity, they must qualify for our bariatrics program. Our basic program guidelines are:

Being 100 pounds or more over your "ideal body weight," according to the established weight charts.
Having a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 40 with no co-morbidities or greater than 35 with serious co-morbidities.
Being able and willing to make the necessary lifestyle changes.

BMI Categories:

Underweight: less than18.5
Normal: 18.5-24.9
Overweight: 25.0-29.9
Obesity (Class 1): 30-34.9
Severe obesity (Class 2): 35-39.9
Severe obesity (Class 3): 40-49.9
Super-obesity: over 50

Learn more by joining us at a FREE informational seminar this week! Learn more at ACallToChange.org.

What is the cost of weight loss surgery?

Thursday, October 8, 2009 by Lisa Buckalew

We recently received a blog comment asking about the cost of a typical procedure. While there are many variables as each patient is different, I thought I would re-run the posting as a way to answer some additional questions.

I am often asked by prospective patients the price of Bariatric surgery. I try to give a ball park figure, but it is a price that I cannot quote exactly. Prior to surgery we verify the benefits available to each patient with their insurance plan. If insurance is not an option, I offer the patient the cash pay rate. This is not one fee for all; you will receive a balance of approximately $26,000

A portion of this will be due before surgery (two weeks) the remaining balance will be in different bills. Pre-operative testing, anesthesia, surgeon fees, etc…I cannot give an exact figure as each patient has different mitigating factors affecting their procedures. Different co-morbidities require different tests for example.

If you have any additional questions about bariatric surgery financing, gastric bypass costs and other fees related to weight loss surgyer, please do not hesitate to call us at 317-275-7010 or attend a FREE seminar.

Join us at seminar next week!

Saturday, October 3, 2009 by Terri Hohlt

Join us for an educational seminar to speak with our Indianapolis surgeons, nutritionists and past patients to learn how bariatric weight loss surgery can help you gain control of your weight, regain health and start a new life.

The next FREE seminar will be held at Clarian Bariatrics' INTECH Park location on Thursday, October 8 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. If you are interested in attending, please fill out our online registration form or call 317-275-7010 or 877-275-2555 (toll free) to reserve your spot.

Did you know?

Wednesday, September 30, 2009 by Andy Pollen

Bariatric surgery is recognized as the most effective and durable method for persons who are morbidly obese to lose their excess weight and keep it off for many years. It is NOT a quick fix. It is NOT taking the "easy way out."

The benefits of bariatric surgery are numerous:

Longer Life – Studies show that gastric bypass surgery can improve your life expectancy by as much as 89%.

Reduced Health Problems – Severe obesity is associated with at least 50 diseases, including diabetes, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, fatty liver, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, gout and various skeletal and joint problems. Bariatric surgery has been proven extremely successful in eliminating or dramatically reducing most of these health problems. For example, 80% of non-insulin dependent diabetics are cured as a result of gastric bypass. Sleep apnea patients enjoy uninterrupted sleep within a year of surgery, and half of the patients with high blood pressure come of their medications within a few months of surgery.

Psychological Benefits – Bariatric surgery can also help reduce the stress and anxiety associated with obesity. With a new self-image, issues like depression and fear of social situations can be overcome. A new desire and ability to interact with family and friends is also a common benefit following bariatric treatment.

Want to learn more about how Indiana weight loss surgery can help you? Then join us at a FREE informational seminar where Indianapolis bariatric surgeons and staff will discuss treatment options. Learn more by clicking here.

Grab N Go snack ideas from Obesity Help, Part II

Friday, September 25, 2009 by Traci Baker

Just continuing my list from Tuesday with more grab n' go snack items. Thanks to Obesity Help for these great ideas!

Jerky
Jerky is available in many proteins: beef, turkey, ham and salmon to name a few. Jerky is a snack that you can put in your purse, briefcase or desk and can be readily available without any preparation. Jerky can be home-made to cut down on the sodium. Jerky is made in various flavors such as bar-b-que, jalapeno, teriyaki and peppered.
Nutrition Bite: 1 ounce of beef jerky is 116 calories

Yogurt
There are many flavor and brand choices of low-calorie and fat-free yogurts. Yogurt is a nutritional food with unique health benefits. It is nutritionally rich in protein, calcium, riboflavin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and contains healthy bacteria to aid in digestion.
Nutrition Bite: 1 container of Greek yogurt is 120 calories

Packaged & Deli Sliced Meats
Portable snacks now include protein options. Manufacturers have responded to the public’s appreciation of protein as a snack by packaging flavored tuna and chicken in pouches and serving size cans. You can also get packages of luncheon meat that are thinly deli sliced that are equal in nutrition to other snacks.
Nutrition Bite: Smoked and deli-sliced turkey is 114 calories

Dried Snacks
Individual sized bags filled with your favorite cereals, granolas, protein chips, cracker sandwiches (with cheese or peanut butter) are a quick grab. You can also purchase high-protein snacks from many vendors that sell healthy snacks friendly to weight loss surgery pre and post-ops.
Nutrition Bite: 1 rye cracker sandwich with cheese filling is 34 calories

Nuts
Nuts, specifically almonds and walnuts, are a nutritious and energy packed snack. Nuts add protein to your dietary intake and are a low glycemic index food. Nuts are frequently recommended as a snack for insulin resistance problems associated with type 2 diabetes.
Nutrition Bite: 1 ounce of whole almonds is 163 calories

Sugar Free, Fat Free Gelatin and Pudding
A favorite snack of long-term post-ops and early post-ops alike are sugar- free, fat-free gelatins and puddings. Smooth and creamy can be soothing and filling to a irritable pouch. For a boost of protein, sprinkle unflavored protein powder over the top. Sugar free, fat free gelatin and puddings can also satisfy the most persistent sweet tooth.
Nutrition Bite: ½ cup portion of sugar free gelatin is 8.6 calories, 3.5 ounces of vanilla fat-free pudding is 88 calories

Grab ‘n go snacks are fast and easy. Just as you have a bag ready when you go to the hospital, pack your grab ‘n go items the night before or even as little as a couple of hours before you leave so they are ready to go when you are.

If you plan ahead, you’ll be ready to grab ‘n go regardless of your schedule. When you are prepared with healthy food choices, it results in staying on track with your weight loss surgery success.