If a stomach reduction is the solution for you, know that there are several kinds of surgery. In the first kind: gastric banding or gastric sleeve, the stomach is reduced. Because your stomach is reduced, you are able to eat less food. This way, you feel full quicker.
The second type of surgery is more drastic and complex: a gastric bypass ((mini-) gastric bypass) and a duodenal switch. In these cases, not only the stomach is reduced considerably, but the intestine is bypassed as well. This way, not only less calories are absorbed in the small intestine, but also less vitamins and minerals.
Whichever kind of stomach reduction you choose, you will have to keep an eye on your nutritional status (vitamin values, minerals and proteins) for the rest of your life. Replenish any deficiencies with specially developed multivitamins. Bariatric Advantage® provides a unique mix of active vitamins and well absorbable minerals in the right amounts. Since the shortages may differ from individual to individual and are not only dependent on the type of surgery, a complete multivitamin complex with a 200% reference intake is recommended. Bariatric Advantage® Multi with 200 % R.I. is suitable for every type. In case of additional needs, you can choose for extra iron, zinc or vitamin B12…
After surgery, your body needs extra calcium. Calcium is important for the maintenance of strong bones and teeth. Our multivitamins do not contain calcium, on one hand because this would take much volume, on the other hand because it could hinder the absorption of other minerals when taken simultaneously.
DO NOT FORGET THE PROTEINS!
Proteins are essential to build up cells and tissues. After surgery, it may be hard to take the necessary proteins via your diet. An additional protein supplement may be recommended in case of decreased protein intake or to replenish deficiencies.
Which kind of stomach reduction is the best option for me?
Every intervention has its own specific results. Which kind of stomach reduction is most suited for you, is dependent on several factors, the advice of a multidisciplinary team and your personal expectations.
Your personal situation and your dietary habits are examined. The surgeon will have a look at your personal history and expectations and tell you more about the different options. That is why the path you follow in case of a stomach reduction is different for everyone.
What happens during surgery?
Usually, you can go home one day after surgery, if there are no complications. Full recovery takes about 4 to 6 weeks. When you will be able to start working again, is dependent on the kind of job you do. If you have an office job, you will probably be able to start working again more quickly than if you have a physically heavy job. You certainly have to take this into account.
The first weeks, you will be feeling tired for sure. That is not only a result of the surgery and the narcosis, but also of the fact that you are able to eat considerably less.
You will be able to walk quite soon. To start cycling or running, it is better to wait two to four weeks. Listen to your body. If your body is not ready to move, you will certainly get signs. If you are still feeling pain, it is important to take it easy.
How soon will I recover after a stomach reduction?
This is different for everyone as well. Much depends on the extent to which you meticulously follow the advice of your surgeon. If you take enough rest, drink enough water and gradually build up your diet, you will be up and around in no time. However, if you are not able to resist the temptation of eating a fat hamburger and fries after one week, you will soon experience the consequences.
How much exactly does it cost to get a stomach reduction?
The price of a stomach reduction is largely dependent on your insurance. Health insurance only intervenes if you meet some strict conditions.
The conditions are the following:
- You are an adult.
- Minimally one year of dieting has not had any result on you
- You have been evaluated by a multidisciplinary team and you are willing to drastically change the way you live.
- You have a BMI of 40 kg/m² or more
- You have a BMI of or above 35 kg/m², but you have problems such as high blood pressure, sleeping apnea or diabetes or you have had bariatric surgery which did not have the desired result.
Additional costs are dependent on the kind of hospitalization you choose: a room for one person or for several persons, extra service, medication, and so on. You can take an additional assurance for this.
Some health insurance funds provide a refund of certain costs, such as dietary sessions, sports sessions… Be sure to check this with your health insurance fund.
In short, having a stomach reduction performed is not something you decide lightly. There are many things to be taken into account. Talk about it with your physician, surgeon, dietician,… Many hospitals organize information sessions and offer brochures with a lot of information and advice.
