Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery | El Paso TX

For many patients desiring to lose weight, gastric sleeve surgery is a great option for better health. Gastric sleeve surgery differs from gastric bypass surgery in a few ways. For instance, the procedure is performed laparoscopically and usually requires one night in the hospital. About 85-90% of the stomach is resected, changing the metabolic status of the patient resulting in a loss of about 70% of the extra body weight.

Gastric sleeve surgery comes with a host of positive benefits including:

  • May physically reduce your hunger. This will help you maintain the weight that is lost from the procedure, but it’s important to understand that the reduction of hunger does not always occur in every patient.
  • Does not require as much operating time as compared to gastric bypass.
  • Does not require any re-rerouting of the intestines.
  • No dumping syndrome experienced. Dumping syndrome is a condition that can develop after surgery to remove all or part of your stomach or after surgery to bypass your stomach to help you lose weight. Also called rapid gastric emptying, dumping syndrome occurs when food, especially sugar, moves from your stomach into your small bowel too quickly.
  • No adjustments are needed. Other weight loss tools such as the Lap Band do require several doctor visits. However, gastric sleeve surgery will require follow-up appointments.
  • No foreign objects left in the body.
  • Weight loss typically occurs in most patients over a period of 18 months. The majority of weight loss occurs in the first year.

Consult Your Weight Loss Specialist

If you are desiring to lose weight with the latest weight loss surgery, contact your weight loss specialist in El Paso, TX.

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Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery Faq | El Paso TX

What does the surgeon remove during laparoscopic gallbladder surgery?

Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery (cholecystectomy) is done to get rid of gallbladder and gallstones through a lot of little incisions in the abdomen.

What can I expect during the surgery?

The surgeon in charge of this operation enlarges your abdomen with carbon dioxide or air to view the operation area properly.

The surgeon fixes a scope that is lighted on a video camera (laparoscope) which is inserted into one incision close to the belly button. The surgeon then uses a video monitor as a guide while inserting surgical instruments into the other incisions in order to be able to remove your gallbladder.

What needs to happen before surgery?

Before the removal of the gallbladder, you might need to have a special X-ray procedure done. This procedure is called intraoperative cholangiography and it shows the inside of the bile ducts.

A minimum of 2 hours’ general anesthesia is needed to carry out this surgery.

What should I do after my laparoscopic gallbladder surgery?

After surgery, you could be required to stay in the hospital for about a day or two. While for some patients it could take up to a week to 10 days before they can get back on their feet as they are likely to be very sore after having laparoscopic gallbladder surgery. But will be back on their feet faster than people who have open surgery. No special diets are required after surgery.

To find out if gallbladder surgery is best for you, contact your bariatric specialist in El Paso, TX today!

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What to Expect at Your Bariatric Consultation | El Paso TX

Often patients are nervous when attending their bariatric consultation. Patients can be more at ease by understanding what to expect during the consultation and preparing for the surgery themselves. Dr. Clapp and his staff work closely with patients to determine if bariatric surgery is best for them.

Pre-Surgery Bariatric Consultation

Our bariatric surgeon in El Paso provides a comprehensive surgical weight loss program which focuses on delivering long-term health and includes a number of activities before surgery, as well as post-operative care, a customized workout routine, nutritional counseling, support groups, and more.

To determine if you are a good candidate for bariatric surgery, your doctor will provide:

  • A complete psychological assessment by a specialist
  • A pre-surgery dietary assessment by a dietitian
  • A comprehensive exercise assessment and program development
  • A dedicated team of compassionate physicians and professional care before and after your surgery

Understanding Bariatric Surgery

Before taking the step to get rid of your weight surgically, we expect you to have done as much research as possible about bariatric surgery. Generally, not every overweight individual is a good candidate for bariatric surgery. However, any person whose health has been affected by their extra weight, or who has failed to shed the fat by other means may be eligible. But keep in mind that your procedure will be combined with exercise and diet changes for great success.

Taking the steps to enhance your quality of life is easier with a team of specialists walking alongside you during the process. To get started on your weight loss journey and life of better health, contact our bariatric surgery office in El Paso, TX.

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Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery | El Paso TX

For many, losing weight can seem like an unachievable dream. It can be a source of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. With gastric bypass surgery, many who though losing weight was not for them find it is possible. With their newfound confidence, they also discover the additional benefits of choosing gastric bypass surgery in El Paso, TX.

Why Choose Gastric Bypass?

The gastric bypass has been one of the most popular bariatric surgeries for weight loss results. The procedure was named the most popular bariatric surgery option in 2015 and is considered the “gold standard” for bariatric surgery.

  • You will lose weight. The average person loses 70-80% of their excess body weight in the first 18 months post-surgery.
  • Those with type 2 diabetes will see significant improvement. In some cases may even eliminate the condition.
  • You will not physically be able to consume large meals due to your smaller stomach size following the procedure.
  • You can get sick from eating too many carbohydrates, including sugar, which helps keep weight off.
  • Those who are on medication for high blood pressure or high cholesterol may see improvements significant enough to lower medications or come off of it entirely.
  • Studies have shown 90% of patients maintain at least 50% of excess weight loss after surgery.
  • You may see hormone improvements, including increased testosterone and metabolism improvements.

If you are considering bypass surgery, please schedule a consultation with our award-winning gastric bypass surgeon. Dr. Clapp will work with you to determine if gastric bypass surgery or other options are best for you.

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Why Choose Dr. Clapp Reflux Surgeon in El Paso, TX

Finding the best specialist to help eliminate your reflux is essential in El Paso, TX. Patients need a doctor that will listen to their reflux issues and help them determine if surgery is the best option for them to find relief. Dr. Clapp is committed to providing individualized care for each patient, as he understands that each and every client requires different needs.

Experience with Our Reflux Surgeon

  • Every patient is treated respectfully and with care
  • You’ll be seen at your scheduled time without unnecessary waiting lines
  • Dr. Clapp and his dedicated staff will explain everything in detail to ensure you fully understand all things that pertain to your treatment.
  • You’ll be comfortable throughout the duration of your appointment and treatment.

Request an Appointment

Schedule an appointment with the best surgeon in El Paso for all your weight loss needs. Contact us online or call our office at (915)-351-6020.

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Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery: What to Expect in El Paso TX

Often patients experience symptoms that require laparoscopic gallbladder surgery to remove their gallbladder. Dr. Clapp works directly with patients to determine if surgery is best for them and what they can expect throughout the experience.

During Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery

Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery (cholecystectomy) is done to get rid of gallbladder and gallstones through a lot of little incisions in the abdomen. The surgeon in charge of this operation enlarges your abdomen with carbon dioxide or air to view the operation area properly.

The surgeon fixes a scope that is lighted on a video camera (laparoscope) which is inserted into one incision close to the belly button. The surgeon then uses a video monitor as a guide while inserting surgical instruments into the other incisions in order to be able to remove your gallbladder.

After Surgery

After surgery, you could be required to stay in the hospital for about a day or two. While for some patients it could take up to a week to 10 days before they can get back on their feet as they are likely to be very sore after having laparoscopic gallbladder surgery. But will be back on their feet faster than people who have open surgery. No special diets are required after surgery.

How Well It Works

Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery is a very effective and safe method for the removal of gallstones that are found in the gallbladder. It can’t be used in removing stones that are found in the common bile duct. There is the possibility that gallstones can be formed in the common bile duct a couple of years after the gallbladder has been removed, although a case like this is rare.

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Am I a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery? | El Paso TX

Determining if a patient is a candidate for bariatric surgery requires excellent care in El Paso.  Dr. Clapp understands that each patient is different.  With their uniqueness in mind, Dr. Clapp considers all factors when determining if surgery is right for his patients.

During a consultation, factors in determining if a patient is a candidate for bariatric surgery may include:

Diet and Exercise

Many find it easy to lose weight with a change in diet and exercise in El Paso. For many who are obese, this is not always the case.  Patients unable to lose weight with a healthy diet and regular exercise may be candidates for bariatric surgery.

Body Mass Index

Body mass index is an excellent way for doctors to determine if a patient’s weight is cause for concern.  For patients who have a body mass index greater than 40, health concerns can arise quickly.  Bariatric surgery can help patients with a high body mass index to reduce their weight and possible health concerns.

Health Concerns

Patients who are obese have other health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or sleep apnea that are cause for concern.  These conditions plus a body mass index above 35 could mean the patient is a candidate for bariatric surgery.

To best determine if you are a candidate for bariatric surgery, it is best to consult with our professional bariatric surgeon, Dr. Clapp.  By scheduling a consultation at (915) 351-6020 in El Paso, you can start your journey to healthier living.

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The Benefits of Bariatric Surgery in El Paso TX

Though obtaining long-term weight loss is one of the benefits of bariatric surgery, it is not the only crucial advantage.  Bariatric surgery can change a patient’s life by not only helping them to maintain a healthy weight but also maintain other aspects of their lives in El Paso.

Reduce Chronic Conditions

Many patients find weight loss after surgery provides additional changes in their physical health.  Often patients with type 2 diabetes can reverse their condition after surgery.  Weight loss after bariatric surgery can reduce a patient’s risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.  Other patients who suffer from sleep apnea may find they no longer need to use the machine for good night sleep.  The physical benefits to reduce chronic conditions are high after bariatric surgery.

Relieve Depression

Depression is common among those who are obese in El Paso.  Many have said their weight contributed to poor body image and inadequacy in social situations.  Losing weight after bariatric surgery can help boost a patient’s self-confidence and increase their desire to enjoy life with others.

Improve Fertility

For some women who struggle with infertility, weight can be a root cause.  Many obese women can conceive after bariatric surgery and long-term weight loss.

The benefits of bariatric surgery are vital for many in El Paso who struggle with their physical, mental, and emotional health.  It is essential to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced bariatric surgeon like Dr. Clapp.

If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of bariatric surgery, contact our office at (915) 351-6020.  We look forward to the opportunity to help you improve your health for the future.

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Preparing for gastric bypass weight loss surgery

Before taking the step to get rid of your weight surgically, we expect you to have done as much research as possible about bariatric surgery. Generally, not every overweight individual is a good candidate for bariatric surgery. However, any person whose health has been affected by their extra weight, or who has failed to shed the fat by other means may be eligible.

Bariatric surgery is a fast, safe, and effective way to not only reduce weight, but also ward off the dangers of obesity, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, among others. Dr. Benjamin Clapp MD FACS recommends that patients consider bariatric surgery when dealing with moderate obesity, and a BMI between 35 and 40, rather than waiting until their BMI is over 40 or even 50 when the patient is less likely to enjoy the full benefits of the procedure.

There are many different approaches to bariatric surgery, though the most common ones are:

  • Sleeve gastrectomy – Used by around 60 – 70% of obese patients, the procedure requires the doctor to remove 80% of your stomach. This procedure is particularly suited for patients with a BMI of 35 to 40.
  • Gastric bypass – This procedure is recommended for severely obese patients. It involves bisecting the stomach and small intestines into two segments, and then linking the smaller ones together to reduce both your food intake and absorption in the intestines. It can result in 60-80% excess weight loss, with long-term results that extend over 20 years after surgery. The procedure also helps to resolve most obesity-related health problems.

Please keep in mind that surgery is usually considered as a last resort, when diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes fail. The weight loss from surgery typically ranges from 40 to 80% of your “excess” weight.

Keep in mind that the results vary for different patients depending on motivation, how close they follow the doctor’s recommendations, and on-going support. Most of the weight loss occurs during the first few months after surgery, and continues for 12-18 months post bariatric surgery.

Final note

Surgical weight loss programs are focused on delivering long-term health, and include a number of activities before your surgery, as well as post-operative care, a customized workout routine, nutritional counseling, support groups, and more. All these components are necessary for great success and keeping the extra weight off for life.

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Finding a Gastric Bypass Specialist in El Paso

Weight loss surgery solutions can help you lose weight when diet and exercise fail to provide the results you want.

Managing obesity is not simply a matter of changing your appearance and getting rid of the extra weight. Being overweight is often associated with a large number of health issues that range from high blood pressure and heart disease to joint problems and depression to infertility.

Why choose surgery?

Bariatric surgery is an effective way to reduce your weight while warding off the dangers of obesity, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, among others. Weight loss surgery involves reducing the size of your stomach to directly reduce your food intake. The procedure also causes changes in your appetizing hormone levels, which helps to lower your appetite and boost insulin sensitivity, which often causes diabetes remission.  

There are many different approaches to bariatric surgery, though Dr. Dr. Benjamin Clapp recommends Gastric Bypass for severely obese patients. This procedure involves bisecting the stomach and small intestines into two segments, and then linking the smaller ones together to reduce both your food intake and absorption in the intestines. It can result in 60-80% excess weight loss, with long-term results that extend over 20 years after surgery. The procedure also helps to resolve most obesity-related health problems.

What to Expect

Our comprehensive surgical weight loss program is focused on delivering long-term health, and includes a number of activities before your surgery, as well as post-operative care, a customized workout routine, nutritional counseling, support groups, and more.

Dr. Clapp will determine if you’re a good candidate for gastric bypass surgery. For this, you can expect:

  • A complete psychological assessment by a specialist
  • A pre-surgery dietary assessment by a dietitian
  • A comprehensive exercise assessment and program development
  • A dedicated team of compassionate physicians and professional care before and after your surgery

Gastric Bypass surgery can help you get rid of a substantial amount of weight, and also improve your overall health and quality of life, enhancing your well-being and possibly adding years to your life. Please visit us today to learn more about this procedure.

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