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Over 41% of US adults are overweight or obese. The obesity rate has tripled since 1975. The nation’s obesity epidemic became exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to people leading even more sedentary lifestyles than before. Incidentally, being overweight or obese makes you more susceptible to illnesses such as COVID-19, which can lead to an early death.

The coronavirus is only one disease that is linked to an elevated body mass index (BMI) score, which measures how much excess fat one is carrying. Obesity-comorbidities include high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and several cancers. In fact, there are over sixty weight-related ailments that can affect someone who is heavier than their ideal weight.

How do we fix this worsening problem? The medical community has worked hard to devise treatments for obesity, which include medically supervised diets, weight loss medications, and bariatric (weight loss) surgery. The latter is the most effective and permanent treatment we currently have for obesity. Procedures like gastric bypass surgery and gastric sleeve surgery are effective for slimming patients down. What’s more, these popular procedures are also effective treatments for obesity-comorbidities.

If your BMI is elevated, you should know that there is hope. Weight loss surgery can boost the quality of your life. Here are ten ways the right surgery could do just that.

How Can Weight Loss Surgery Improve Your Quality of Life?

Take the Weight Off

Let’s start with the most obvious way your life can improve following a procedure like a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric sleeve surgery. We all have an ideal weight. When we speak of weight, we mean the total mass of the human body. While fat is part of that equation, your weight also includes muscle, water, bone, blood, as well as fat.

We all need some fat to survive. Fat cushions your organs, insulates the body, and stores energy. The human brain is composed of mostly fatty tissue.

The human body is so efficient that it turns the food we eat into fuel. When we consume more fuel than we need, the calories are stored as fat in the body to be used as energy during times of famine. The problem is that most of us won’t be facing a famine anytime soon. And with calorie consumption so high in most of the foods we eat (including at restaurants), it is very easy to pack on more fatty tissue than we need to survive.

The fat we gain comes on slowly. Bit by bit, a person who overeats and doesn’t exercise to burn off the excess fuel will gain weight steadily over time. Before you know it, you could end up being twenty, thirty, forty, fifty, or more pounds overweight.

Imagine a dumbbell being fifty pounds. Now picture lugging that dumbbell with you everywhere you go. That is essentially what you are doing when you carry fifty pounds of excess fat.

Surgeries like gastric sleeve and gastric bypass allow you to lose that weight when regular diet and exercise have failed to move the needle on the scale. With that weight lifted, your joints are no longer under so much pressure. You feel lighter and healthier, and you’re able to move around much better with far greater amounts of energy.

Treat Obesity-Comorbidities

According to the National Institutes for Health, bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for obesity and weight-related ailments.

If you are currently taking medication for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and other ailments that are related to an elevated BMI, it is not unheard of for doctors to reduce or eliminate your medication entirely after the excess weight has come off. A recent study showed that 85% of diabetes patients no longer needed medication two years after having bariatric surgery. The same goes for high blood pressure, which tends to resolve itself two years after weight loss surgery as well.

Not only will you feel lighter after surgery, but you can become healthier as well.

Have More Energy

Procedures like gastric bypass surgery and gastric sleeve surgery alter the amount of volume your stomach can hold. With less stomach volume, you end up eating less, and your body absorbs fewer calories as a result.

With your body no longer bogged down trying to digest oversized meals, your body’s metabolism works more efficiently. The result is a surge of energy and attentiveness that can make life far more enjoyable.

Experience Greater Mobility

When your body is weighed down by excess fat, every joint can seem to become inflamed. This makes general movement uncomfortable and, on occasion, downright painful.

Patients that undergo weight loss surgery report feeling less pain and having greater mobility in the first few years after weight loss surgery.

Not only will you have more energy to do the things you want to do after bariatric surgery, but your body will be in better shape to undergo activities you may have thought were impossible before, such as skydiving.

Extend Longevity

Study after study after study show that bariatric procedures such as the gastric bypass and gastric sleeve are associated with a longer life span.

Bariatric procedures are not without risks. Every surgery can be risky. But doctors are often quick to remind patients that doing nothing about obesity is far riskier than undergoing weight loss surgery. The right surgery may add years to your life.

Wear Fashionable Clothes

We have discussed quite a few health benefits of weight loss surgery. Now let’s turn to your wardrobe. When you become obese, shopping for clothing isn’t as cut and dry as it should be. You often have to shop in special sections, like the big and tall department. And because fatty tissue often isn’t symmetrically balanced, you may find yourself between sizes or wearing clothing that is tight in one area and loose in another. All these factors make it difficult to dress how you would prefer.

When you undergo weight loss surgery, a whole new world opens up. Suddenly, you are able to shop in the regular clothing department like everyone else. You get to discover your new body type with fashionable clothing options.

While it can be expensive to replace your entire wardrobe, doing so is one of the most exciting aspects of losing all the excess weight.

Find Body Positivity

Losing a significant amount of weight is a major accomplishment. Weight loss surgery may sound like an easy fix, but you still must do the work. You must change your lifestyle so that you are eating healthily and getting regular exercise. When the weight finally does come off, you will be able to see the fruits of your labor staring back at you in the mirror. Weight loss surgery is a wonderful way to feel better about your body again.

There are instances where excess skin can remain after a procedure like the gastric bypass and gastric sleeve. There are procedures known as post-bariatric body contouring that can remove that excess skin, which can help even more when it comes to finding body positivity following your procedure.

Better Self-Confidence

Being obese can take an emotional toll. You may feel as though you stand out and are so much different than everyone else. While body positivity movements exist in today’s society, there is still a stigma around obesity. The prevailing myth is that you chose to be the way you are. But obesity is not a choice. It’s a disease, and defeating it is a huge accomplishment.

Losing all the weight will make you feel so much better about yourself. And with more energy, greater mobility, and improved attentiveness, you will feel more capable of tackling life’s obstacles than you may have felt previously.

Improved Emotional Well-Being

Bariatric surgery patients report being in a better mood in the years following surgery. When you aren’t turning to food for stress relief or living a sedentary lifestyle without regular exercise, and since you are no longer carrying so much excess weight around, you feel more in-tune with yourself and your emotions.

It’s easy to see why weight loss surgery patients would be in a great mood. It’s easier to get in and out of the car, tie your shoes, climb stairs…the list is endless in all the ways your life can improve.

Save Money Over Time

Being obese is expensive. Studies show that billions of dollars are spent each year on medical costs related to obesity or obesity-related ailments. While weight loss surgery is not necessarily cheap (bariatric surgery can cost around $20,000 to $25,000), the surgery could end up paying for itself in the years following the procedure.

The latest estimates show that patients that go on to lose weight with procedures like gastric sleeve surgery end up saving as much as $900 each month or more on saved medical costs.

You are also eating less food than you were before. Since both gastric bypass and gastric sleeve reduce your stomach volume (gastric bypass also redirects your smaller stomach to your small intestine to reduce calorie and nutrient absorption), you end up eating less overall. Think of all the money you will save at the grocery store.

Instead of worrying about the prohibitive cost of surgery, just think of all the cost savings that will add up in the years ahead.

Which Bariatric Surgery is Right for You?

Now that you know the amazing ways your life can improve after a bariatric procedure, you have a decision to make. We have mentioned two of the most popular procedures, the gastric bypass, and gastric sleeve.

Gastric bypass surgery involves separating your stomach into an upper and lower portion. The smaller upper portion becomes your new stomach and essentially holds less food. The smaller stomach is then rerouted to your small intestine, which helps you absorb fewer calories and nutrients. The procedure can facilitate weight loss amounting to 70% or more of your excess weight. If you are currently 100 lbs. overweight, that means you could lose over 70 lbs.!

Gastric sleeve surgery involves the removal of 80% of your stomach tissue. The tissue that is removed is responsible for creating the hunger hormone ghrelin. With that tissue removed, you no longer feel as hungry after surgery. That means you won’t feel deprived as you end up eating less. The remaining stomach tissue is converted into a banana-like sleeve, which is where you will store food on the way to digestion. The surgery can facilitate weight loss of up to 50% to 60% or more of your excess weight.

These are only two options but there are more, such as the Lap-Band, duodenal switch, gastric balloon, and others.

A consultation with a weight loss surgeon can help you decide which bariatric procedure is right for you.

If you live in the Southern California area, schedule a consultation with Doctor Babak Moeinolmolki of Moein Surgical Arts. Doctor Moeinolmolki is dual-board-certified as a minimally invasive surgeon and body contouring surgeon. That means he can perform weight loss surgery and post-bariatric body contouring to help you find body positivity after the excess weight has come off.

Because these procedures are minimally invasive, there is a low risk of complications, and reduced downtime.

After a physical examination and discussion of your weight loss goals and health history, Doctor Moeinolmolki can inform you of your choices with regard to the ideal bariatric surgery for you.

Get started now by calling our office to book your appointment – (310)694-4486.

Some cosmetic surgeons charge a consultation fee. This is a good thing. Learn the facts before scheduling with Dr. Moein of Moein Surgical Arts.

If you are in the market for a cosmetic procedure like a facelift or tummy tuck, you may have come across cosmetic surgeons charging a fee for consultations. Some surgeons do this while others do not. This may irk you since cosmetic surgery is elective. That means insurance is already out of the picture. Any consultation fees you pay will come out of your own pocket, as will the cost for any procedures you undergo.

Still, you should not let a cosmetic surgery consultation fee deter you from meeting with a surgeon or undergoing a procedure if it will mean improved self-esteem. Here is what to expect during a consultation and the answer to the question: Why do some cosmetic surgeons charge for an initial meeting?

Why Are Cosmetic Surgery Consultations Critical for Proper Care?

When you schedule a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon, you are doing so for two important reasons. The first is so that you can vet the surgeon and learn more about the procedures that interest you. You don’t have to have a procedure in mind when you arrive for the meeting. You only have to be able to convey the insecurities you have and those parts of yourself you wish to correct. The surgeon can use that information to provide you with the available options that can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

During the consultation, you also get a chance to ask plenty of questions. This lets you determine if the surgeon is the best fit and if you feel a rapport with the professional before moving forward.

How Long Does a Consultation Typically Take?

The length of your consultation depends on the procedures available to you and the information you want to learn. The more procedures you are an ideal candidate for and the more questions you ask, the longer the meeting is likely to take. Generally speaking, you can expect the initial meeting between you and a surgeon to take around two hours.

Read our article: Tips for Scheduling Your First Cosmetic Procedure with a Cosmetic Surgeon

A couple of hours is usually enough time for you and the surgeon to get to know one another and discuss all available options, both surgical and non-surgical, to achieve your aesthetic goals. You will also be able to learn about the surgeon’s educational background and level of experience, in addition to the surgeon’s vision of what is possible for you.

Other information you might find yourself discussing includes the surgery timeline. The schedule of the surgery and your downtime will be mentioned, as well as what to expect during your surgical recovery. You may have to schedule time off work for the surgery and during your recovery period unless you choose to undergo surgery during one of your vacation periods.

The private meeting between you and the surgeon also gives you a chance to discuss the fees associated with surgery. Depending on the services that are right for you, the surgeon will provide you with a quote that includes the costs for cosmetic surgery and extras, such as anesthesia, surgeon’s fees, medical devices (such as breast implants), and others. You can discuss finance options during this time as well.

Who Will You Be Meeting During a Cosmetic Surgery Consultation?

When undergoing cosmetic surgery, you won’t only be dealing with your cosmetic surgeon, though he or she will be calling the shots. You will instead have a surgical team ensuring your safety and that you get the best results possible. The team may consist of a surgical assistant, anesthesiologist, a patient care coordinator, and others. During the consultation, you will get a chance to meet every one of these individuals. Not only will you be able to say hello, but you can also ask questions until you are comfortable having those individuals at your bedside in the operating room.

While you will get a chance to meet your care team, the majority of the meeting will be spent speaking with the cosmetic surgeon. An experienced surgeon will make you feel comfortable and devote a considerable amount of time listening to you, discussing your options, and alleviating your concerns.

What Evaluations Are Made During a Consultation?

Once you have chosen a surgical or non-surgical med-spa option, you will meet with the surgeon and surgical care staff to discuss a customized treatment plan. For the sake of thoroughness, the surgeon and staff will perform a physical examination. This helps to provide you with personalized recommendations related to your aesthetic goals. Rest assured, the examination will be handled with the utmost respect and consideration for your modesty.

Will Photos be Taken?

Photos are not usually taken during the first consultation. The surgeon may take photos before surgery for your “Before” phase to be coupled with your “After” photos taken post-operation. In some cases, the surgeon takes photos to help you visualize your results using imaging tools and technology.

Does the Consultation Involve Needles or Blood Work?

Cosmetic surgeons typically do not poke or prod you during the average consultation. Cosmetic surgery consultations don’t require invasive tests. If bloodwork is required, the surgeon will usually refer you to your primary care physician to perform the blood work and run the necessary tests.

You should expect to discuss your medical history with your surgeon, including prescription medications, supplements, and recreational drugs you may be taking. This helps to ensure your safety prior to having surgery. Plan to be open and honest with your surgeon regarding your health, substances you are putting into your body, and your medical history.

Why Do Cosmetic Surgeons Charge a Consultation Fee?

As you can imagine, cosmetic surgeons invest a considerable amount of time and energy into their potential patients during a consultation.

Cosmetic surgeons who charge fees for the initial meeting aren’t being greedy; far from it. They do so because they feel it is in your best interest and their own. Here are a few reasons cosmetic surgeons charge fees for the above discussion and questions.

No Sales Pressure

Cosmetic surgeons feel the fees they charge to remove the potential for patients to anticipate sales pressure since they have already paid for the doctor’s time.

Compensation for Time Spent

A cosmetic surgeon is a professional with years of schooling, training, and experience. Similar to an attorney or accountant, a cosmetic surgeon feels it is fair to be compensated for the time they spend devoted to your questions and concerns.

Maximize Time with You

Surgeons don’t want to rush from patient to patient. They like to take their time to ensure adequate levels of care. Charging a consultation fee lets the surgeon spend the most amount of time with you during the first meeting. They also want to know that you have all the information you need to move forward with surgery, which is a major decision to make.

Are You Serious About Aesthetic Improvement?

Charging a consultation fee lets the surgeon know that you are dedicated to improving your appearance with cosmetic surgery. You’re not just wasting time. You are actually committed to moving forward with a procedure, which makes for a more productive consultation experience.

How Much Does a Cosmetic Surgery Consultation Cost?

How much they charge is relative and depends on which surgical center you choose to visit. Some surgeons charge as little as $75 and some as much as $250. Most surgeons who charge consultation fees apply the fee toward your procedure if you decide to eventually schedule the surgery you want.

That being said, you should not feel pressured to pick one surgeon over another just so you won’t forfeit the money spent. Even a $250 consultation fee is a small price to pay for a professional who will give you a favorable outcome with regard to aesthetic greatness.

Ask about the consultation fee when you schedule your appointment. That way, you know what to expect and will not be taken by surprise.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Babak Moein of Moein Surgical Arts

We hope this information has provided clarity about consultation fees and why cosmetic surgeons may charge you to meet with them. Dr. Babak Moein of Moein Surgical Arts does charge a consultation fee because of the reasons stated. This is for your benefit as much as it is for Dr. Moein’s.

As a board-certified cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Moein is devoted to your positive outcome with cosmetic surgery and non-surgical med-spa techniques. Learn more by booking an appointment with the world-renowned doctor by calling (310)694-4486.

Obesity is a serious disease that has become a global epidemic. Nearly 40% of U.S. adults are suffering from obesity. As if that weren’t enough, many of these men and women are also suffering from numerous weight-related comorbidities. A concise list of these ailments includes high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obstructive sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, and cancer.

Obesity negatively affects your quality of life, productivity, mobility, and longevity, with severe obesity reported to reduce life expectancy by an estimated five to twenty years.

According to experts, weight loss procedures are effective treatments for obesity and weight-related comorbidities, yet they are highly underutilized.

If your weight has climbed to a level of obesity or severe obesity, you may not know where to turn. Turns out, the help you need may be as close as your local cosmetic surgeon’s office. There are now several weight loss procedures you can choose that can give you a better quality of life, and potentially longer life to boot.

Here is all you need to know about these safe and effective procedures, which include both surgical and non-surgical weight loss techniques.

You can find out if you are a suitable candidate for one of these procedures by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Babak Moein of Moein Surgical Arts in Los Angeles, California.

Non-Surgical Weight Loss Options – When You’re Not Ready to Commit to Surgery

When your weight climbs to the level of obesity, losing weight becomes downright difficult. While cutting calories and exercising may help someone of normal weight drop a few excess pounds, for obese individuals, losing weight no longer works that way.

Your body fights against you when you become obese. You form a resistance to leptin, which is the hormone produced by the intestines that helps you feel full when you’ve had too much to eat. Your metabolism slows when you become obese, and it takes longer and more intense exercise to lose weight compared to someone of a healthy weight.

If you are struggling to lose weight, non-surgical weight loss options can help you shed the excess pounds.

Non-surgical weight loss procedures are ideal for those who aren’t quite ready to commit to bariatric surgery. The procedures offer a much-needed reprieve from yo-yo dieting, extreme fad diets, and rigorous exercise plans.

Recent advances in bariatric science have led to the development of these non-surgical medical weight loss solutions for patients who need help dropping excess weight.

Let’s explore a few of these medical innovations now.

Obalon – FDA Approved for Weight Loss Without Surgery

Obalon is a gastric balloon system. It is the first and only FDA-approved balloon treatment that you swallow. The treatment is effective and makes weight loss easier for obese individuals.

The Obalon balloon device is lightweight and easy to swallow. The device takes up room in your stomach, which forces you to eat less.

You can’t eat what you want on the Obalon balloon system. The program is designed to be paired with a professionally supervised nutrition and exercise program. The balloon doesn’t stay in your stomach forever. It is removed after six months. Here are the specifics of the treatment.

The Obalon is designed to help patients achieve weight loss without side effects. When you have the balloon installed, you will experience progressive weight loss over the course of the six months, as long as you combine it with a moderate intensity weight loss and behavior modification program.

The balloon itself is durable, smooth, and multi-layered. This lets the device withstand stomach acid, enzymes, bacteria, and other forces when placed in the stomach.

When you swallow the balloon, the device is empty. Your doctor will fill the balloon with a nitrogen gas mixture that allows the device to remain inflated during the six-month period. The gas is inserted into the balloon with an attached catheter that is easily removed once the device is filled. The balloon is leak-proof and can be viewed with digital imaging, so your doctor can ensure the device is always doing its job.

Are You an Ideal Candidate for the Obalon Balloon?

The Obalon Balloon System is reserved for individuals with a body mass index (BM) of 30 to 40kg/m2. You must also be over the age of 22. To be a candidate, you must be willing to follow a twelve-month program that includes diet and exercise. Healthy eating and physical activity must continue even after the balloon is removed after the six-month treatment.

The purpose of the Obalon gastric balloon is to teach you how to follow a healthy lifestyle, which is required to lose a significant amount of weight and keep the weight off long-term.

How Much Weight Can You Expect to Lose with Obalon?

The Obalon balloon has been clinically proven to help patients drop a significant amount of weight when paired with a diet and exercise program. On average, patients lose between 15 and 50 pounds with 89.5% of the total weight loss maintained after the first year.

How is Obalon Placed in the Stomach?

The placement of Obalon takes less than ten minutes with no sedation required. You swallow a capsule, which contains a small balloon attached to a micro-catheter. Your doctor will use digital imaging and a specialized dispenser to inflate the balloon with the nitrogen gas mixture. When the inflation is complete, the catheter is detached and removed, which leaves the Obalon Balloon System to work its magic within your stomach.

How Many Balloons Are Used During a Typical Obalon Treatment?

In most cases, three balloons are placed over three months. The balloons have a volume of 250ccs and weigh less than six grams. That makes them around the size of a small orange when fully inflated. The reason three balloons are used is to help increase your tolerance and facilitate progressive weight loss throughout the six-month program. Studies show that those treated with three balloons lose more than four times as much weight as those treated with only two balloons. All three balloons are removed six months after the first balloon is placed.

How Much Does an Obalon Gastric Balloon Cost?

On average, Obalon costs between $6,000 and $9,000. The Obalon system is not covered by health insurance, but medical financing is always an option.

Reshape Gastric Balloon for Non-Surgical Weight Loss

Reshape is another non-surgical balloon-based weight loss procedure. The program is designed for individuals with a lower BMI of 30 to 40 and is ideal for those who may not qualify for weight loss surgery.

Reshape is different from Obalon in that two connected balloons are used. The devices are filled with a saline saltwater mixture and are placed within your stomach in an outpatient setting. The duration of the procedure is around twenty minutes and uses light anesthesia to keep you comfortable.

During the procedure, an endoscope is used to insert the Reshape balloons into your stomach. Saline is then used to inflate the balloons as they are properly positioned. When the balloons are fully inflated, the endoscope is removed. You will keep the balloons in your stomach for six months, similar to Obalon.

Read our article: The Magic of Reshape

How Does Reshape Help You Lose Weight?

Just like the Obalon system, Reshape helps you lose weight by taking up room in your stomach. You are also encouraged to follow healthy eating and exercise habits. The balloons don’t just help you feel full faster, but you’ll feel less hungry overall.

After the six months are up, the balloons are deflated and removed using the same endoscopic method.

Why Are Two Balloons Used with the Reshape Weight Loss Program?

Reshape is a unique gastric balloon system. The two balloons are used because the connected devices are designed to conform to the natural curvature of your stomach. This helps with comfort and keeps the balloons from moving around. The latter is a safety measure. If one balloon accidentally deflates, the second balloon will keep the device from migrating to your intestines.

Since there is no surgery involved with Reshape, which means there are no incisions, scars, or permanent changes to your digestive system. There is also minimal downtime, which means you can return to work and your normal activities within a few days.

How Much Weight Can You Lose with Reshape?

On average, patients lose an average of 20 to 50 pounds with the Reshape gastric balloon system.

How Much Does Reshape Cost?

Reshape costs around $7,000 with insurance not likely to cover the procedure.

Orbera Gastric Balloon – A 12-Month Non-Surgical Weight Loss Program

Orbera is a non-surgical treatment for obesity that again uses a balloon-based system. The treatment uses sedation before your doctor guides a thin, soft balloon down your throat and into your stomach.

The balloon is filled with saline until it reaches the size of a grapefruit. The duration of the procedure is between twenty and thirty minutes. You will go home the same day. After six months, the balloon is emptied the same way it is filled, then removed.

Like the other balloon systems we have discussed, Orbera takes up room in your stomach. The device typically takes up less than half the space available for food. This helps to slow the passage of food and liquid, helping you feel full faster during meals. What the system aims to do is train you to be satisfied with smaller portions and smaller meals.

While the Orbera balloon is placed, you will collaborate with a dietician and other members of your weight loss care team by following a medically supervised diet and exercise program. A food diary is typically advised to help track your progress.

Even after the balloon device is removed, your care team will provide six months of guidance and behavioral therapy to help you maintain the lifestyle changes necessary for long-term weight loss.

How Much Weight Can You Lose with Orbera?

Overall, patients tend to lose between 10% to 15% of their body weight while the balloon is installed. You are encouraged to maintain the weight loss after the balloon is removed by following a sensible diet and exercise program.

How Much Does the Orbera Gastric Balloon Cost?

The average cost of Orbera is $6,925 and is not usually covered by an insurance plan.

A Surgical Option for Weight Loss

While the above systems are non-surgical in nature, which means they are reversible, there is also a non-reversible treatment for obesity that involves insurance. Let’s explore that method now.

Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve – The Most Popular Weight Loss Surgery

Laparoscopic gastric sleeve surgery is aimed at treating the severely overweight. Also referred to simply as gastric sleeve surgery, this procedure is quickly becoming the most popular bariatric (weight loss) surgery in the world.

You would be an ideal candidate for the gastric sleeve if you have a body mass index higher than 40. That usually means you are carrying more than 100 pounds of excess weight.

How is Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve (LSG) Performed?

A laparoscopic gastric sleeve is performed in a hospital or dedicated surgical center under general anesthesia. After you are unconscious, the surgeon makes five tiny incisions around your abdomen. The cuts are used as entry points for the laparoscopic tools.

First, a long telescope with a tiny camera and light at the end is inserted into your abdomen. Other instruments are pushed through the other incisions to perform the surgical operation. The procedure is viewed by your surgeon using a monitor in the operating room.

During the procedure, up to 80% of your stomach tissue is removed. This part is known as the fundus. After the fundus is extracted, the surgeon closes the rest of your stomach into a tube the shape of a banana. This is called a sleeve, hence the name sleeve gastrectomy.

Because your stomach is made smaller by the gastric sleeve procedure, you will end up eating less following the surgery.

A bonus of having the fundus removed is that your body will make less of the hormone ghrelin, which makes you feel hungry. You eat less and feel less hungry overall following the gastric sleeve, which helps you lose the excess weight.

The entire procedure takes around two hours to complete. Most people end up staying in the hospital or dedicated surgical center for two days after surgery.

How Much Weight Can You Lose with Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Most gastric sleeve patients lose an average of 40% to 50% of their excess weight in the first two years of having surgery. If your BMI is 60 or more, you may lose an average of 125 pounds.

The gastric sleeve doesn’t only treat obesity. Bariatric surgery is also a suitable treatment for obesity comorbidities like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and many more.

How Much Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cost?

The gastric sleeve costs $15,400. Your insurance plan may cover bariatric surgery, which means some or all of the costs could be covered by your policy. Check with your insurer. But remember, medical financing is always available, such as programs like CareCredit, to help you cover the costs of this life-changing procedure.

Schedule a Weight Loss Procedure Consultation

If you have made the choice to have a non-surgical or surgical weight loss procedure, you will be pleased to know that both are now available at your local cosmetic surgeon’s office. Call Dr. Babak Moein of Moein Surgical Arts in Los Angeles, California, to schedule a consultation. We also offer a medical tourism program for those living outside the Southern California area. Dial now to learn more (310)694-4486.

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and liposuction are two procedures that are designed to help you lose stubborn body fat and attain a flatter belly. But which one is right for you?

We are always told that diet and exercise is the best way to lose fat and get the flattest stomach possible. Yet, for some people, no matter how much they watch what they eat or move their bodies, the stubborn pockets of fat never seem to budge, and the scale doesn’t seem to register any fat loss at all.

The reason diet and exercise don’t work for some could be down to genetics, metabolism changes following pregnancy, and previous obesity. For these individuals, body contouring surgery may be the only option left to help them obtain the results they desire. This is where the tummy tuck and liposuction come into play.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that can help remove excess skin from the abdomen. Excess skin often becomes a problem after pregnancy or earlier weight loss and can’t be fixed with mere dietary and exercise habits.

There are two essential types of tummy tuck – partial and full. Both procedures are performed under general anesthetic. Both surgical techniques remove excess fat and sagging skin while tightening the abdominal muscles. In addition, stretch marks and old scarred areas may also be removed along with the sagging skin.

The tummy tuck operation can take several hours. Most often, you can expect to remain in the hospital for days afterward. You can also expect to undergo several weeks of healing before returning to your full daily activities. You may be bruised and swollen for some time, but these side effects will subside with time so that you can enjoy the full benefits offered by the procedure.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is another surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the abdomen. During the surgery, small areas of body fat are suctioned out and removed. The surgeon first makes small incisions on the abdomen and breaks up the fat cells before removing them with a suction tube.

Unlike abdominoplasty, liposuction is not used to remove excess skin. Therefore, stretch marks and scarring cannot be removed, nor does the procedure tighten the abdominal muscles. It only removes the fat.

Liposuction tends to work best for people who already have tightened abdominal muscles and supple skin, and who are already at a normal weight.

Like the tummy tuck, liposuction is usually performed under general anesthetic, though epidural anesthesia is also an option. If only a small area is being worked on, local anesthesia will generally suffice. The surgery is typically completed in under an hour.

When opting for liposuction, you may have to stay in the hospital for a night following the operation. The total recovery time tends to be as little as two to six weeks.

Keep in mind that liposuction isn’t just confined to the abdomen, as it can be performed on other parts of the body as well, such as the arms, hips, and thighs.

Which is Better: Liposuction or Tummy Tuck?

Both the tummy tuck and liposuction can help patients achieve their body contouring goals. When it comes to which procedure is right for you, it all depends on the goals you hold to be most important.

The tummy tuck is ideal if you have a body mass index of over 30, you are considering getting pregnant in the future, and if you are actively trying to lose weight.

Your surgeon may also recommend a tummy tuck over liposuction if you have a chronic heart condition.

Liposuction is the best fit if you are only looking to remove small deposits of fat that are most commonly found on the hips, thighs, buttocks, and stomach areas. The procedure removes fat deposits from the targeted area, which reduces bulges and improves the body’s contour.

Another thing to keep in mind about liposuction is that the procedure is not recommended as a weight loss tool. As in, you shouldn’t get liposuction if you are obese.
How Much Do the Tummy Tuck and Liposuction Procedures Cost?

The average cost of a tummy tuck is around $5,798 while liposuction costs $3,200.

Do You Lose Weight After a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is designed to flatten the tummy and tighten the abdominal muscles but should not be used for weight loss. You should, however, plan to change your lifestyle following surgery, which includes a high protein diet and exercise. Doing so will help you maintain the results you gain for the long-term.

For best results, you should be as close as possible to your ideal weight before opting for the tummy tuck procedure.

How Painful is a Tummy Tuck?

The tummy tuck procedure itself is not painful, as you will be under anesthesia as the surgery happens. Afterward, you may feel slight discomfort in the abdomen, particularly if you also had the ab muscles tightened.

If your surgeon placed a drainage tube around the surgery site, you may experience discomfort around this area. The tube is usually left in for about a week after surgery. The soreness around this area is normal but swelling and bleeding are not. Contact your surgeon if you notice blood or swelling around the drainage tube.

The most intense discomfort typically comes right after surgery and will subside within about a week. You should plan on resting during this time. After the first week, you should begin to notice a decrease in discomfort around the surgical site, though you may still feel sore or tight for a few more weeks.

You may also feel some soreness when engaging in your everyday activities, like getting out of bed and standing up straight. This is completely normal. Your body will adjust and react to your smaller tummy area in no time.

If you think the discomfort will be too much for you, your surgeon may recommend a “mini” tummy tuck. This procedure removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdominal area with no drainage tube, minimal pain levels, and less downtime.

How Long Does a Tummy Tuck Last?

The surgery itself takes around two to six hours, depending on the extent of the procedure being performed. For instance, if you are just having your tummy flattened, you can expect the procedure to be shorter than it would be if you also had your abdominal muscles tightened.

Healing generally takes the longest when opting for a tummy tuck. In addition to healing time, when you should allow your body to rest, you can expect full healing to take about a year’s time.

Does the Fat Come Back after Lipo?

Many patients want to know if liposuction permanently removes fat. The answer is yes, liposuctions out fat cells so that they are no longer in your body. However, it is possible for fat to return after lipo, but only if you allow it to come back.

The fact is that patients who succeed in maintaining their “post-liposuction weight” tend to experience the most dramatic results. For these patients, the fat will not return, and the ideal results will remain intact.

Who is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

The best candidates for liposuction include adults who are within 30% of their ideal weight and who have firm, elastic skin along with good muscle tone.

Before your surgeon can recommend lipo, he or she will need to ensure that you are not suffering from a life-threatening illness or medical condition that can impair the healing process. You must also be a non-smoker.

Ideally, you will have a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for body contouring before your surgeon will recommend the procedure for long-term fat loss.

How do I Prepare for a Tummy Tuck?

Your surgeon will likely recommend that you schedule an initial consultation before you can opt for the tummy tuck procedure. During this process, your surgeon will examine you and assess your medical history to determine if you are indeed a good candidate for the procedure. He or she will also give you strict instructions to follow to prepare for the surgery.

Preparation for a tummy tuck can include taking certain medications or adjusting your current medications. If you are a smoker, you will probably be advised to stop smoking. Your surgeon will also tell you not to use aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements, as these can increase bleeding.

In addition, if your tummy tuck is performed on an outpatient basis, you should arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery. You might want to plan to have that person stay with you for at least the initial night following the surgical procedure.

How Dangerous is a Tummy Tuck?

All surgeries come with risks, but millions of people have undergone the tummy tuck procedure without any significant or lifelong problems.

The risks of tummy tuck include risks of anesthesia, bleeding, and infection, though these are similar risks associated with most surgeries accompanied by anesthesia.

There may be fluid accumulation, also known as seroma, poor wound healing, skin loss, and numbness or other changes to skin sensations. Some patients may experience skin discoloration, prolonged swelling, unfavorable scarring, recurrent looseness of skin, and deep vein thrombosis.

Other risks can include asymmetry, suboptimal aesthetic results, the possibility of revisional surgery, and persistent pain.

Talk with your surgeon about the risks involved with tummy tuck procedures so that you can have a better understanding of what to expect when opting for abdominoplasty.

Is Getting a Tummy Tuck Worth It?

Many people have had excellent success with the tummy tuck procedure. Talk to your surgeon about maintaining realistic results when opting for surgery.

Can an Obese Person Have a Tummy Tuck?

Ideally, you should be within ten pounds of your ideal weight when undergoing the tummy tuck procedure.

As such, your surgeon may recommend the body contouring surgery after engaging in a procedure like the gastric sleeve, which can help to bring the weight down to a more manageable level.

How Much Fat Can Lipo Remove?

Surgical guidelines state that a surgeon is only allowed to extract a maximum of 5,000 milliliters of fat from a patient. That comes out to around eleven pounds for all patients, regardless of variations in body weight or body fat status.

How Many Pounds are Removed in a Tummy Tuck?

Once again, the tummy tuck procedure is not intended for weight loss. However, you can expect to lose around 6.6 pounds of unsightly fat and sagging skin. Your results may vary, depending on how much excess fat there is to gather and how much sagging skin there is.

Find Out if a Tummy Tuck or Liposuction Procedure is Right for You

Now that you know more about the tummy tuck procedure and liposuction, it’s time to determine if one or maybe both procedures are right for you. This isn’t a decision to make lightly, nor is it one to make on your own.

To make your decision easier, you should first determine if you are a good candidate for abdominoplasty or lipo. You can do that by scheduling an appointment with an experienced body contouring surgeon like Dr. Moeinolmolki at Moein Surgical Arts.

If you have a high BMI, Dr. Moein may recommend that you lose weight first before you can opt for surgery. The doctor has scientifically backed processes to help you lose excess weight, which will make the surgical procedures safer while yielding superior results.

An initial consultation with Dr. Moein can help you better understand the differences between these two surgeries and put you on track to help you achieve your body contouring goals.

It is during the consult that you can have your questions answered and learn if the tummy tuck or liposuction is the perfect procedure for your needs and goals.

You can schedule your appointment by calling the friendly staff at Moein Surgical Arts in Los Angeles, California.

Laser hair removal is an attractive option for those who hate shaving and despise unwanted hair. The act of shaving brings with it all sorts of headaches. Razors are expensive, you can get razor burn and ingrown hairs, and shaving takes precious time out of your day that you can never get back. Who wants all that when you can have the hair lasered away in record time?

Before you toss out your razor and opt for this effective form of hair removal, it pays to educate yourself about the procedure and any side effects you may experience to make sure the treatment is the right fit for you.

Laser Hair Removal Facts You Should Know

You Must Have Patience

Laser hair removal takes multiple treatments to receive the full benefit. If you want your unwanted hair to be eradicated, be regular with your appointments so that each hair has a chance to get zapped.

The Appointments are Fast

Most people are surprised to find that laser hair removal doesn’t take much time at all. Depending on the amount of hair, and the area of the body, treatment can take as little as twenty minutes.

More Benefits Than Just Hair Removal

Laser hair removal won’t just get rid of your unwanted hair, but you can also say goodbye to pesky ingrown hairs. Imagine having clearer and smoother skin with permanent hair reduction and less irritation! That is reason enough to throw out every single razor you have.

There May Be Discomfort

Many people are hesitant to sign up for laser hair removal because they think that the laser burns or otherwise hurts. It is true that hair removal works through a powerful laser, and a small amount of heat is involved, but the irritation is not unbearable.

Laser therapy utilizes high-heat laser beams to provide a mild form of radiation. The light of the laser is sent through the pigment in the hair. The light converts to heat, which damages the hair follicle and bulb. While this sounds like it could be painful, it’s more of a discomfort and doesn’t last long.

How Painful is Laser Hair Removal?

You may be dismayed by the term “discomfort.” After all, pain tolerances vary. What may feel uncomfortable to one person may be downright painful to another. So, let’s get right down to it. How painful is laser hair removal, really?

Most patients will tell you that the procedure doesn’t hurt nearly as bad as waxing. The technician can also adjust the power of the machine to lessen the intensity of the laser if your pain tolerance is low.

The discomfort tends to be less intense on areas where the skin is thicker, like the stomach and arms, and more intense on areas with thinner skin like the underarms and upper lip.

Is Permanent Hair Removal Really Permanent?

You often hear the word “permanent” used in conjunction with “laser hair removal,” but the permanence is really a misnomer. Hair removal using lasers only reduces the number of unwanted hairs on your legs, arms, and other areas. The procedure will not eradicate the hairs forever.

The hair follicles and bulbs are only temporarily disabled. The hair follicles will eventually heal, resulting in new hair production. This is why multiple sessions are recommended if you want unwanted hair removed for extended periods of time.

How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of laser hair removal is around $429. However, costs will vary depending on the areas you want to be treated and where you go. Face and neck hair removal can cost as little as $600 and as high as $900. Chest hair removal can range from $350 to $600, and the bikini area can range from $350 to $500.

How Many Treatments Does the Average Person Require for Laser Hair Removal?

While single laser treatment can remove much of the unwanted hair in any given area, more treatments are required to maintain hair loss. The follicles will begin to shed over the following days and weeks after your initial appointment. Experts then recommend that you have another treatment in around four to six weeks. With these multiple appointments, you will see a significant reduction in the number of hair follicles your body produces in the treated area.

All in all, you may find that 4 to 6 treatments are needed to rid your body of the unwanted hair completely. Others may require 5 to 7 treatments. The number of treatments you require will depend on your hair and skin color, hair texture, and the hormones your body produces that are driving the unwanted hair growth. Everyone is different, so your treatment frequency may vary.

Are There Any Downsides to Laser Hair Removal?

When you schedule a consultation with your laser hair removal technician, you will be evaluated to determine your risk of developing side effects. Side effect risks will vary depending on your skin type, treatment plan, and hair color and texture.

The laser is designed to attack the pigment of the hair. This is why the procedure works best on darker hair. The procedure doesn’t work as well for individuals with hair colors that don’t absorb light well, such as gray, blond, white, red, and white hair.

The risk of damage to the skin is greater in patients with little contrast between the color of their hair and skin. However, laser technology has come a long way in recent years, which means that even those with darker skin can enjoy the benefits of laser hair removal without painful or annoying effects.

The most common side effects of laser hair removal are skin irritation and skin pigment changes. The skin could develop temporary discomfort and turn red or swollen following your laser hair removal treatment. Your skin might also darken or lighten, but these effects are temporary and should resolve themselves in just a few days. In most cases, skin lightening will affect individuals who fail to avoid sun exposure right before or after treatment, but it can also occur in those with darker skin.

In rare cases, lasering the hair away can cause crusting, blistering, and scarring of the skin. Your technician will ensure you the right fit for the procedure before scheduling your appointment to keep the chances of side effects to an absolute minimum.

Can You Get Cancer From Laser Hair Removal?

Many myths prevail about laser hair removal. One of the most shocking myths we’ve heard is that having the hair lasered away causes cancer. These rumors are completely unfounded, as the lasers are designed to pass through skin cells and only target the hair follicles deep within the skin.

The lasers only produce a slight amount of radiation. However, this radiation is not thought to be harmful, and there is no evidence at all that laser hair removal therapy causes skin cancer. In fact, millions of people have undergone the procedure without issue since the FDA approved laser hair treatments as safe in 1997.

Do You Need to Do Anything to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal?

The first thing you should do when considering laser hair removal is to schedule an appointment with a board-certified specialist who is experienced in cosmetic laser procedures.

During your consultation, you will be asked about your medical history to determine if you have allergies or health problems that can complicate the procedure. You will also be evaluated to see if you are a good fit for the laser removal procedure. If you tend to scar easily or you have recently gotten a tan, you may not be recommended. You could also be a poor candidate for the procedure if you are prone to herpes or cold sore outbreaks and if you have ever taken isotretinoin (Accutane).

Your laser hair removal technician will also discuss the risks of the procedure so that you are well-informed before opting for the treatment. As with any medical procedure, lasering your unwanted hair away can come with some risks. These include burns, scars, and permanent skin color changes, though these effects are rare.

Your technician will let you know how many treatments are recommended and will discuss payment options with you.

After scheduling your appointment, there are some things you can do to prepare.

First of all, stay away from sunbeds or excessive amounts of sun exposure for six weeks leading up to your procedure. If your technician recommends that you use a bleaching cream, make sure you use the topical ointment as recommended. This may be the case if you have recently gotten a tan.

Don’t pluck or wax your skin for six weeks before the procedure and avoid chemical peels or collagen injections. You should also stay away from blood thinning medication or aspirin for at least a few days before your procedure. Be sure and tell your technician if you have taken prescription or over the counter medications recently, as these could cause side effects when used in conjunction with laser hair removal.

Finally, it is recommended that you shower and shave the area before your appointment. When shaving the treatment area, use a new razor, shaving cream, and warm water so that you get the closest shave.

The only thing left to do is show up for your appointment. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and have a great time as your unwanted hair gets zapped away.

Does Hair Really Grow Back Thicker After Laser Hair Removal?

Most people find that laser hair removal causes their hair to grow back thinner and lighter. In very rare cases, the procedure can stimulate hair growth. Experts don’t truly understand the reason for this phenomenon, but the technical term for the hair growing back thicker is called hypertrichosis.

According to studies on hypertrichosis, only 1% to 10% of patients develop thicker hair following laser hair removal. Discuss this possibility with your technician during your consultation to alleviate any concerns you may have.

Other Common Questions About Laser Hair Removal

Is Electrolysis Better Than Laser for Hair Removal?

Both electrolysis and laser hair removal are effective for removing unwanted hair. Electrolysis involves an electrical current that is passed through each hair follicle. The hair follicle becomes damaged, preventing future hair growth. Electrolysis is permanent and can come with side effects. Of the two procedures, laser hair removal is currently the most popular in the nation.

Is It Okay to Pull Your Hair Out After Having it Laser Removed?

It is best to leave all the treatment areas alone following your treatment. If you still notice hair in the areas you wish were bare, have patience. Your follow up appointments will get rid of the problem in due time.

Should You Shave Before Your Laser Hair Removal Appointment?

We do recommend shaving and showering before the appointment for the best results.

Will Laser Hair Removal Affect Your Teeth?

The laser involved with the removal process doesn’t penetrate deep enough to affect your teeth or gums, so undergoing treatment won’t anger your dentist.

Does Laser Hair Removal Affect Tattoos?

Since the laser involved with removal is attracted by the pigment in the hair follicles, your tattoos may be affected. The laser cannot distinguish between tattoo dye and hair pigment, so treatments may cause your tattoo ink to scatter or otherwise lighten.

Are There Age Requirements for Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is safe for any age. Many parents take their teens to get their lips and even legs waxed. However, it is up to the discretion of the doctor or technician on whether a person is a good candidate for laser hair removal.

Is Laser Hair Removal Approved by the FDA?

The United States Food and Drug Administration approved lasers as safe and effective for hair removal in 1997.

Can Laser Hair Removal Cause a Hormonal Imbalance?

Laser hair removal can’t cause a hormonal imbalance, but you may experience effects related to a hormonal imbalance if you have one. This is seen in the rare cases of paradoxical hypertrichosis, where the hair grows back thicker following laser therapy. Talk to your doctor or technician if you have a hormonal imbalance during your consultation.

Why is My Hair Still Growing After Laser Hair Removal?

Laser removal takes a few sessions before the hair is completely eradicated. As long as you stay consistent and remain vigilant with your follow up appointments, the areas can be freed of hair without shaving or waxing.

What Happens if I Stop Laser Hair Removal?

Over time, the hair will grow back like normal. Laser hair removal is semi-permanent, which means you can get rid of your unwanted hair in various problem areas for the long-term. Once you stop treatment, the damaged hair will eventually heal, leading to a continuance of the standard hair growth cycle.

How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Are Required for Underarm Hair?

The underarm area can take around three to five treatment sessions to achieve maximum results.

Schedule Your First Hair Removal Appointment Today!

Where on your body do you have unwanted hair? By now, you know more about the procedure and how it works. Your next step is to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Moeinolmolki. Dr. Moein is also certified in the use of lasers for cosmetic purposes, including hair removal.
Schedule now if you want to:

Start Small

Many patients start out by trying a tiny problem area like the upper lip, sideburns, nipples, chin, abdominal line, or eyebrows.

Larger Areas

You can then move up to the underarms, bikini line, inner thighs, buttocks, lower legs, shoulders, back, and arms.

Call Moein Surgical Arts now for a free and private consultation.

Sometimes, all it takes is a small aesthetic flaw to ruin the beauty of your appearance. Take your eyes, for example. When crow’s feet start to from around the corners of your eyes, they can make your eyes appear tired and aged, which detracts from the beauty of your overall appearance.

When it comes to reducing the appearance of crow’s feet, Botox is your ideal choice. Botox injections are safe to use around the sensitive tissue surrounding your eyes and make rejuvenating the youthful beauty of your eyes easy and quick. Regular injections with Botox can keep your eyes looking vibrant and youthful for years.

Don’t let crow’s feet diminish the beauty of your face – contact Möein Surgical Arts today to schedule a consultation for your Botox injections. We can provide your eyes with the personalized care they need so that you can feel confident about your appearance.

Aging can cause a number of aesthetic issues, with the most noticeable ones occurring on the face. The aging process affects the strength of your skin and can cause facial volume to diminish. When both of these issues occur on the face, it can cause noticeable wrinkles and folds to form on your face.

The best way to restore the youthful look of your face and reduce the appearance of wrinkles is with cosmetic fillers like Juvederm and Restylane. These products restore subtle amounts of volume and nourish the skin to fill in noticeable folds and lines. The injections produce minimal discomfort and do not require a lengthy recovery period.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Babak Moein will carefully examine your face in order to determine how much product will be needed to provide you with the aesthetic results you are after. If cosmetic fillers sound like your ideal solution to your aesthetic issues, contact us to schedule a consultation.