Advanced BMI in Lebanon

Approximately 5% of the stomach is separated by the use of special stapling tools, and this creates a new, small Gastric Pouch. The rest of the stomach (95%) stays in place, continuing on producing digestive juices. This newly formed Gastric Pouch has an outlet which is attached to the small intestine to enable the food to empty directly into the lower part of the intestine, therefore by-passing the stomach. Any digestive juices produced by the pancreas, stomach, duodenum and gall bladder are directed by the Biliopancreatic Limb into the common channel in a ‘Y’ shape hook-up, thereby giving this technique its name – Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

The patient eats less and feels full sooner due to the small Gastric Pouch – the by-passing of a portion of the intestine ensures that the person’s body is only able to absorb a portion of the calories consumed. The most effective technique is to complete a hand-sewn gastrojejunostomy, instead of using the stapling tools. Surgeons who choose not to use the hand-sewing gastrojejunostomy method due to its technical difficulties will be left with no choice but to make larger Gastric Pouches so that the instruments will fit, enough to be able to create the anastomosis.

This is a Restrictive Procedure. Gastric Plication is a laparoscopic procedure, in which Dr Safa initially makes five small incisions in the abdomen. It is performed using a video camera. Instruments are placed or inserted through these small incisions.

The stomach is sewed by making one or more large folds, which reduces the volume of the stomach by up to 70%, thereby reducing the capacity of the stomach. A smaller stomach results in a smaller appetite, making you eat less. There is no cutting, stapling or removal of stomach or intestines in this procedure. LGCP, a minimally invasive surgery, takes approximately an hour to be performed. You will be required to stay in the hospital for a day or two following this procedure.

Potential reversal or conversion to any other procedure is possible after undergoing this surgery.

This port is connected to the gastric band by means of a soft and thin tubing. The surgeon makes use of this adjustment port to administer a saline solution, which is commonly used as IV drips, into the gastric band. The saline solution is used to control the restriction provided by the band, i.e. an increase in the saline solution input makes you feel full faster than before, thereby lowering your appetite.

However, the digestion process and nutrient absorption happen in the same way they used to happen before. The gastric band is an appetite controller as it limits the food intake at a single go. This makes you feel full sooner than before. The band creates a stoma which plays a key role in slowing down the rate at which food flows from the gastric pouch to the lower stomach.

It is highly useful as you will not feel hungry for a long time, making you involuntarily have excellent control over your appetite.

• Are at least 18 years of age and older
• Have a BMI < 30
• Have a history of demonstrated failure in maintaining weight loss with traditional weight loss methods and if you do not meet the criteria for weight loss surgery but wish to achieve weight loss for health or and/aesthetic reasons
• Have a BMI >27 and need to lose weight in order to reduce your risk for surgical procedures such as joint replacement or back surgery
• Are not currently pregnant and have no intention of becoming pregnant in the 12 months following Gastric Balloon placement
• Have not had previous bariatric surgery, intestinal obstruction, or adhesive bowel problems

• Have a feeling of fullness
• Lose more weight than conventional weight loss programs
• Be supported by the Advanced BMI Team of medical experts
• Modify your life-style for long-term success
• Non-surgical and reversible approach to weight loss

The gastric balloon is not a magic pill, but a tool to change your lifestyle. Taking part in the program will give you the education and support to change your lifestyle habits and have a better chance for long-term success.