procedures

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procedures

Vaginal Rejuvination/Restoration

Why Consider Vaginal Rejuvenation?

Often times, through aging and child birth, the vagina becomes stretched and the vaginal muscles become relaxed. Many women are embarrassed to ask their physican about vaginal looseness, incontinence (involuntary urination), enlarged or irregular labia, or loss of sexual satisfaction. In turn, most doctors are uncomfortable asking their patients about those same issues. Many women do not even realize there are surgical techniques to solve their problems. We at the Blue Water Surgical Centre are here to help you in a warm and comfortable setting.

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Many of the symptoms that are solved by the different Vaginal Rejuvenation procedures are created by Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Pelvic Organ Prolapse occurs when pelvic structures (like the bladder or rectum) bulge or protrude into the vaginal wall. Many different structures can prolapse. The bladder, the uterus, the vagina, the small bowel, or the rectum are common structures that can be herniated and cause prolapse.

What are the Signs of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

While many women do not have symptoms, some women may notice a bulge or lump in the vagina or even notice the vagina protruding outside the body. Other symptoms may include:

A pulling or stretching feeling in the groin area
Painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
Vaginal pain, pressure, irritation, bleeding or spotting
Urinary and fecal incontinence
Difficulty with bowel movements
Delayed or slow urinary stream

You Are Not Alone

If you suffer from symptoms like those described above, you are not alone. Millions of women suffer just like you do. Patients requiring Vaginal Rejuvenation can sometimes experience local discomfort, pelvic pressure, an interrupted urinary stream, difficult bowel movements, and is often not talked about. Fortunately many methods of Vaginal Rejuvenation are available. Your doctor at the Blue Water Surgical Centre will determine the surgical procedure most suitable for your present condition. The procedures are designed to correct the problem and free you from the limitations caused by this problem.

How Will the Procedure(s) be Performed?

At the Blue Water Surgical Centre, there are currently multiple different procedures that we perform to rejuvenate the vaginal area. These procedures usually include Apogee, Perigee or Monarc Sling combined with perineal liposuction, perineal laser resurfacing and hair removal. These procedures are usually out-patient procedures performed under regional or general anesthesia, depending on what you and your doctor choose. A vaginal incision and a few small skin incisions will be made. A piece of mesh is inserted through the incision, placed in the body and secured under the skin. The mesh is intended to restore your anatomy to its natural position and strengthen the structures around your vagina to maintain support. After the surgery, you may notice immediate results. To see an illustrative video of how this portion of the procedres are performed, please click below:

Apogee (mpg) 3 minutes (25 megabytes)
Perigee (mpg) 3 minutes (5 megabytes)

A Complete Solution

At the Blue Water Surgical Centre, various cosmetic procedures can be added to your package to provide you with a complete solution that will give you the exact results that you want. Many of our clients choose to add light areas of liposuction or hair removal to their packages. Because the Blue Water Surgical Centre staffs fully board certified plastic surgeons, the possibilities are endless.

No Surgery Without Risk

Several Vaginal Rejuvenation procedures are performed each year at the Blue Water Surgical Centre. The results of this procedure are usually quite positive. However, there are risks associated with any surgery. Fortunately, most complications are rare and can be prevented by closely following your doctor's instructions before and after the surgery. Because much of the healing of surgery is dependant upon your body, there can never be a guarantee of a perfect outcome or a surgery without risk.

Infection and blood clots are rare complications, but they can occur. Post-operative antibiotics are given to reduce the risk of infection, and precautionsare taken during surgery and immediately after to prevent the complications related to clot formation.

Where Your Surgery Will Be Performed?

The Vaginal Rejuvination Procedures to repair Pelvic Organ Prolapse are performed at the Blue Water Surgical Centre, a private surgical centre which is fully accredited by the CAAASF (Canadian Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities) and has the added benefit of providing the privacy and personal comfort that traditional hopital settings can not offer.

Anesthesia

One of the most critical parts of your surgery is your anesthesia. In most centres in North America, anesthesia is provided either by an M.D. who is specialized in anesthesia or a nurse certified in anesthesia. At the Blue Water Surgical Centre, your anesthesia is only provided by a fully certified anesthesiologist M.D., F.R.C.S.C. We believe that this person is as critical to your safe outcome as is your surgeon.

What Happens Immediately After the Procedure?

Immediately after surgery you will be brought to the recovery area. It is a standard requirement that you recover in the recovery room for the same amount of time that you were under anesthesia. When you are concious, comfortable, and your vital signs are stable, we will get you up, offer you something to drink, dress you and give you something for pain. Post operative instructions will be given to you at the time of your discharge. This will provide you with additional information on how to care for yourself after surgery, including any other limitations to activities. Immediate over activity may limit the long-term success of the procedure. You will also be given a 24-hour emergency phone number should a concern arise after normal office hours. The following day you will return to see your physician to have the urinary catheter and vaginal packing removed. At that time you will be encouraged to closely follow the post operative instructions you were given and to not miss your follow-up appointments with your doctor, as they are essential to evaluate the progress of your healing. This is also a good opportunity to have any of your questions and concerns answered by your doctor.

Other Considerations

Since pregnancy and childbirth often distort and disrupt the normal vaginal anatomy, you should only have this procedure if you no longer desire to have children. Pregnancy may negate the effects of the procedure.

Summary

You do not need to live with Pelvic Organ Prolapse and the pain and discomfort it causes. Join other women today who have sought help for this problem and once again enjoy an active lifestyle with family and friends.

The Gastric Balloon Managed Weight Loss System is unlike anything you have ever experienced. It's not a diet. It's not weight management surgery. It's not a pill. It's a novel and proven system to unlock the "you," you've always known you can be. We know you're finally ready to achieve and enjoy the weight results you've dreamed of. We're here to help you.

What is a Gastric Balloon

The Gastric Balloon Managed Weight Loss System is a safe* and effective alternative to weight management surgery- with proven results.

This weight loss journey is made up of three important parts and begins with a medically placed device, the Gastric Balloon System intragastric (inside the stomach) balloon, which is inserted temporarily into your stomach to encourage portion control without weight management surgery. In conjunction with education and training to build a personalized, habit changing action plan and a support team of experts to join you on your journey, the Gastric Balloon System provides a kick-start to healthy, sustained weight loss, without having to undergo weight management surgery.

The Gastric Balloon System has already become a clinically accepted treatment for weight loss in Europe and South America and is now being introduced to Canada and Australia.

*As with all medical procedures, there are potential risks of unforeseen, unknown or adverse reactions to medications and the procedure itself.

Gastric Balloon System Intragastric (inside the stomach) Balloon:

The Gastric Balloon System device is a soft, silicone balloon that is inserted into the stomach and filled with sterile water without weight management surgery. With the balloon you will feel full sooner and will feel less hungry more often. The balloon will be removed after six months. With the help of the Gastric Balloon System, you can more easily adopt the lifestyle changes needed to lose weight without weight management surgery

Support Team of Experts:

Experienced weight-loss professionals will consult with you and design a program to help successfully reach and maintain your weight-loss goals. Your team will be there every step of the way with encouragement and support when you choose the Gastric Balloon System as an alternative to weight management surgery. Your support team of experts may include the following:

Physician
Dietitian
Exercise therapist
Psychologist
Other specialists

Education and Training:

During the regularly scheduled meetings with your team, you will learn the principles needed to manage your weight and promote long-term health and avoid weight management surgery. Some of these include nutrition, exercise, eating behaviours, and psychological issues related to food. While learning, you will be motivated by your success and turn these principles into habits that will serve you the rest of your life and help you to avoid the need for weight management surgery.

How does the Gastric Balloon System work?

The Gastric Balloon System consists of a soft, expandable intragastric (inside the stomach) balloon that is temporarily inserted into the stomach to create a feeling of early and prolonged fullness after meals – a foundation for weight loss. The device itself is a soft silicone intragastric balloon that is inserted (without surgery) in a deflated state into the stomach and then inflated with sterile water through a self-sealing valve once it enters the stomach. The intragastric balloon will remain in place for a maximum of 6-months.

The intragastric balloon provides a 6-month kick-start to healthy weight loss and is an ideal solution if you are looking to lose 20-40lbs but are fearful of surgery, fed up with diets, pills and other weight loss programs that didn’t work.

The Gastric Balloon System is a life changing, three pillared approach to achieving – and sustaining – your weight loss goals, once and for all.

During those 6 months (and beyond) you will work together on a customized plan with your support team of weight loss experts, to overcome the challenges of retraining your appetite, adopting new nutritional habits, and establishing a reasonable exercise routine to help you succeed and stay motivated.

The Gastric Balloon System has already become a clinically accepted treatment for weight loss in Europe and South America and is being introduced to Canada and Australia.

Explaining the procedure

The balloon is inserted in a deflated state by an endoscopic procedure. Once inside the stomach the balloon, which has a self-sealing valve, is immediately filled with sterile water through a small filling tube. The catheter is then gently removed. Once it has been filled, the balloon will be too large to leave the stomach.

Placement procedure times can vary from 20 to 30 minutes.

Immediately after the placement you will regain complete awareness but will remain in the clinic for observation for a period of 1 - 2 hours. After this the physician will discharge you into the custody of the person who will take you home.

Side effects such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea and cramping will be experienced during the first few days as your stomach gets used to the presence of the balloon. These side effects can often be managed by medication prescribed by your physician and are minor compared to those experienced after weight management surgery.

How much weight loss can be expected?

Individual weight loss will vary depending on how well the patient adapts to the balloon, how quickly they alter their eating habits and adopt an exercise routine. A healthy goal is to aim for an average loss of 2 lbs per week and studies have shown that with the Gastric Balloon System, patients can lose 20-40lbs in six months -all without weight management surgery.

Experience has shown that 70-80% of a patient's weight loss typically occurs during the first three months of treatment. After that time, the presence of the intragastric balloon plays a supportive role in helping patients to maintain their new nutrition and exercise habits. The balloon will be removed after six months but the new healthier habits will remain and weight management surgery will have been avoided.

Clinical Support for the Gastric Balloon System

The health risks of being overweight, in terms of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders and some cancers are well known.

"...Recent evidence from a large prospective, 10 year follow-up of over 500,000 middle aged men and women showed a two-three fold greater risk of mortality in obese than non obese individuals, and a 20-40% increased risk of death in overweight subjects - confirming the dangers of excess body weight at all levels."

As part of a supervised diet and lifestyle modification program, the Gastric Balloon System is a useful tool in helping patients with a qualifying BMI and previous poor record of dietary success to achieve significant weight loss over the six months that the device and support program are in place, without resorting to weight management surgery.

The Gastric Balloon System, used in conjunction with a managed weight loss program, including a supervised diet and lifestyle modification, is designed to increase the possibility of sustaining weight loss without weight management surgery. The Gastric Balloon System is indicated for a maximum placement duration of six months.

FACT: Gastric Balloon System experts from Italy, Brazil, Spain and Canada conducted a survey, in person or over the phone, with 186 current (40%) and post-removal (60%) patients which showed that 87% of patients were satisfied to very satisfied with the intragastric balloon and 85% would recommend the intragastric balloon to others.

FACT: International Gastric Balloon System experts, with experience in over 6,000 patients, have collaborated to identify a global standard of care for Gastric Balloon System patients. Key issues, which are addressed, include: selecting, preparing and monitoring patients, placing and removing the intragastric balloon and optimizing successful outcomes while alleviating the need for weight management surgery.

FACT: Overweight and obese patients are a major health challenge for physicians working in a wide range of specialties and the long term risks of all levels of excess body weight are well recognized. The Gastric Balloon System has proven effective and safe* since its introduction in 1997. Improvements of the intragastric balloon's outer shell and valve were introduced in 2004 and, in the experience of the expert panel, no leakages or deflations have been seen with over 80,000 Gastric Balloon System placements.

*As with all medical procedures, there are potential risks of unforeseen, unknown or adverse reactions to medications and the procedure itself.

Who is a candidate?

While the Gastric Balloon System does not require weight management surgery, any medical procedure requires careful thought and consideration. Moreover, the Gastric Balloon System is not going to be for everyone.
To qualify for the Gastric Balloon System you must be:

At least 18 years old
Overweight with a BMI of at least 27
Motivated and ready to comply with a serious, medically supervised program

The Gastric Balloon System advantage

The Gastric Balloon System has several advantages over other weight-loss plans including weight management surgery. With the Gastric Balloon System you can:

Have a feeling of fullness sooner and longer after meals to encourage portion control – no more hunger!
Lose more weight than with other diet programs – achieve success!
Be supported by a team of medical experts – we’re in this together!
Learn principles for long-term success – so you can keep that lost weight off!
Have the benefits of a non-surgical, non-pharmaceutical approach – easy as not eating pie!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What exactly is The Gastric Balloon managed weight loss system?
A: The Gastric Balloon managed weight loss system is not a magic pill, but a set of tools to change your lifestyle: The intragastric balloon device to help kick-start your weight loss; A team of experts to guide you; and education and training to help you achieve a sustainable weight loss goal.

Q: How will my weight-loss results compare with other diet programs?
A: You can expect to lose more weight with the Gastric Balloon System. Because you will feel full sooner and longer after small meals – a result of the intragastric balloon placed in stomach - you are better able to control your eating and make healthy changes in your eating habits.

Q: How is the intragastric balloon device placed and removed from my stomach without surgery?
A: Placement of the balloon generally takes about 20-30 minutes during which you will be lightly sedated. The deflated balloon is inserted into your stomach through your mouth (endoscopically). Immediately after the balloon is placed and filled with sterile water, you will regain complete awareness and remain in the clinic for observation until the doctor discharges you. The intragastric balloon is removed through the mouth in a similar manner, under the same supervised conditions.

Q: Will this intragastric balloon device limit my activity?
A: The first week you should not plan any heavy activity. Once your body has adjusted to the intragastric balloon however, you can continue your normal activities. Starting a regular exercise program is highly recommended and will improve your success.

Q: Can I eat anything I want? Are there specific food or alcohol restrictions?
A: You will not feel like eating as much as you used to. In addition, if you eat fatty foods or sweets, you may feel sick. Excessive overeating while the intragastric balloon in place can be dangerous and can result in a serious medical condition. Alcohol in moderation is fine.

Q: What about side effects or complications?
A: The first three to five days can be very difficult. Cramping, nausea and vomiting are normal and should be expected. It is very important that you follow your doctor’s instructions and drink plenty of fluids. Your doctor may prescribe you medications to help ease the discomfort.

Q: How long will it take to recover after the procedure?
A: You should plan at least three days of inactivity to recover from the procedure. You will be able to resume normal activity sooner or later than this depending on how quickly your body adjusts to the intragastric balloon.

Q: Will I be able to feel the intragastric balloon in my stomach?
A: There will be discomfort during the first few days. After that, the primary sensation of the device is a feeling of fullness.

Q: Does the Gastric Balloon System require frequent visits to my doctor after the procedure?
A: The follow-up program is critical to success with the Gastric Balloon System, and in learning new lifestyle skills. You should meet with your physician and support team at least monthly while the intragastric balloon is in place. During this time your progress will be evaluated and you will learn valuable principles of health, nutrition, and exercise that will provide you with a foundation for long-term success.

Q: Who do I talk about this, and where do I go to get the Gastric Balloon System?
A: A qualified and trained physician is the best person to answer questions you may have and the only person who can start you on the Gastric Balloon System weight loss journey. There are several such physicians practicing across the country: [Hyperlink: Find A Clinic]

Q: Why can the device only be used for 6 months?
A: The Gastric Balloon System intragastric balloon must be removed after six months. If the intragastric balloon is not removed at this time interval, it can leak and deflate. It will likely pass through your body naturally, however in some cases it may need to be removed by your doctor.

Q: How quickly will I lose the weight?
A: The time frame for weight loss will vary from patient to patient, and will depend to large degree on how well they adapt to the Gastric Balloon System, alter their eating behaviour, and adopt an exercise regimen. However, experience has shown that 70-80% of a patient's weight loss typically occurs during the first three months of treatment.

Q: Will I regain the weight after the Gastric Balloon System is removed?
A: Patients who alter their eating behaviour, and adopt an exercise regimen have seen the greatest and most sustained success. There are no miracles in weight loss, as you well know.

Q: Will my insurance company cover the cost or offer assistance for this procedure?
A: Coverage varies for each insurance company. Please contact your insurance company and supply them with category number B-50000. We also strongly encourage you to contact a clinic near you for specific procedure costs and payment plans they offer.

Q: Does the Government offer assistance for this procedure?
A: Unfortunately, the government does not currently offer assistance for the Gastric Balloon System procedure. There may be opportunities to receive a medical expense tax credit for this procedure. We encourage you to contact your accountant for assistance.

Weight Management Surgery

Gastric Ballooning for Moderate Weight Loss

The Gastric Balloon Managed Weight Loss System is unlike anything you have ever experienced. It’s not a diet. It’s not weight management surgery. It’s not a pill. It’s a novel and proven system to unlock the “you,” you’ve always known you can be. We know you’re finally ready to achieve and enjoy the weight results you’ve dreamed of. We’re here to help you.

What is Gastric Balloon

The Gastric Balloon Managed Weight Loss System is a safe* and effective alternative to weight management surgery– with proven results. This weight loss journey is made up of three important parts and begins with a medically placed device, the Gastric Balloon System intragastric (inside the stomach) Balloon , which is inserted temporarily into your stomach to encourage portion control without weight management surgery. In conjunction with education and training to build a personalized, habit changing action plan and a support team of experts to join you on your journey, the Gastric Balloon System provides a kick-start to healthy, sustained weight loss, without having to undergo weight management surgery.

The Gastric Balloon System has already become a clinically accepted treatment for weight loss in Europe and South America and is now being introduced to Canada and Australia.

*As with all medical procedures, there are potential risks of unforeseen, unknown or adverse reactions to medications and the procedure itself.

Gastric Balloon System Intragastric (inside the stomach) Balloon:

The Gastric Balloon System device is a soft, silicone Balloon that is inserted into the stomach and filled with sterile water without weight management surgery. With the Balloon you will feel full sooner and will feel less hungry more often. The Balloon will be removed after six months. With the help of the Gastric Balloon System, you can more easily adopt the lifestyle changes needed to lose weight without weight management surgery.

Support Team Of Experts:

Physician
Dietitian
Exercise therapist
Psychologist
Other specialists

Education And Training:

How does the Gastric Balloon System work?

The Gastric BalloonSystem consists of a soft, expandable intragastric (inside the stomach) Balloon that is temporarily inserted into the stomach to create a feeling of early and prolonged fullness after meals – a foundation for weight loss. The device itself is a soft silicone intragastric Balloon that is inserted (without surgery) in a deflated state into the stomach and then inflated with sterile water through a self-sealing valve once it enters the stomach. The intragastric Balloon will remain in place for a maximum of 6-months.

The intragastric Balloon provides a 6-month kick-start to healthy weight loss and is an ideal solution if you are looking to lose 20-40lbs but are fearful of surgery, fed up with diets, pills and other weight loss programs that didn’t work.

The Gastric Balloon System is a life changing, three pillared approach to achieving – and sustaining – your weight loss goals, once and for all.

The Gastric Balloon System has already become a clinically accepted treatment for weight loss in Europe and South America and is being introduced to Canada and Australia.

Explaining the procedure

The Balloon is inserted in a deflated state by an endoscopic procedure. Once inside the stomach the Balloon , which has a self-sealing valve, is immediately filled with sterile water through a small filling tube. The catheter is then gently removed. Once it has been filled, the Balloon will be too large to leave the stomach.

Placement procedure times can vary between 20 to 30 minutes.

Immediately after the placement you will regain complete awareness but will remain in the clinic for observation for a period of 1 – 2 hours. After this the physician will discharge you into the custody of the person who will take you home.

Side effects such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea and cramping will be experienced during the first few days as your stomach gets used to the presence of the Balloon . These side effects can often be managed by medication prescribed by your physician and are minor compared to those experienced after weight management surgery.

How much weight loss can be expected?

Individual weight loss will vary depending on how well the patient adapts to the Balloon , how quickly they alter their eating habits and adopt an exercise routine. A healthy goal is to aim for an average loss of 2 lbs per week and studies have shown that with the Gastric Balloon System, patients can lose 20-40lbs in six months –all without weight management surgery.

Experience has shown that 70-80% of a patient's weight loss typically occurs during the first three months of treatment. After that time, the presence of the intragastric Balloon plays a supportive role in helping patients to maintain their new nutrition and exercise habits. The Balloon will be removed after six months but the new healthier habits will remain and weight management surgery will have been avoided.

Clinical Support for the Gastric Balloon System

The health risks of being overweight, in terms of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders and some cancers are well known.

“…Recent evidence from a large prospective, 10 year follow-up of over 500,000 middle aged men and women showed a two-three fold greater risk of mortality in obese than non obese individuals, and a 20-40% increased risk of death in overweight subjects – confirming the dangers of excess body weight at all levels.”

FACT: Gastric Balloon System experts from Italy, Brazil, Spain and Canada conducted a survey, in person or over the phone, with 186 current (40%) and post-removal (60%) patients which showed that 87% of patients were satisfied to very satisfied with the intragastric Balloon and 85% would recommend the intragastric Balloon to others.

FACT: International Gastric Balloon System experts, with experience in over 6,000 patients, have collaborated to identify a global standard of care for Gastric Balloon System patients. Key issues, which are addressed, include: selecting, preparing and monitoring patients, placing and removing the intragastric Balloon and optimizing successful outcomes while alleviating the need for weight management surgery.

FACT: Overweight and obese patients are a major health challenge for physicians working in a wide range of specialties and the long term risks of all levels of excess body weight are well recognized. The Gastric Balloon System has proven effective and safe* since its introduction in 1997. Improvements of the intragastric Balloon ’s outer shell and valve were introduced in 2004 and, in the experience of the expert panel, no leakages or deflations have been seen with over 80,000 Gastric Balloon System placements.

*As with all medical procedures, there are potential risks of unforeseen, unknown or adverse reactions to medications and the procedure itself.

Who is a candidate?

To qualify for the Gastric Balloon System you must be

At least 18 years old
Overweight with a BMI of at least 27
Motivated and ready to comply with a serious, medically supervised program

The Gastric Balloon System advantage

The Gastric Balloon System has several advantages over other weight-loss plans including weight management surgery. With the Gastric Balloon System you can:

Have a feeling of fullness sooner and longer after meals to encourage portion control – no more hunger!
Lose more weight than with other diet programs – achieve success!
Be supported by a team of medical experts – we’re in this together!
Learn principles for long-term success – so you can keep that lost weight off!
Avoid weight management surgery and pharmaceutical approaches – it’s as easy as not eating pie!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What exactly is The Gastric Balloon managed weight loss system?
A: The Gastric Balloon managed weight loss system is not a magic pill, but a set of tools to change your lifestyle: The intragastric Balloon device to help kick-start your weight loss; A team of experts to guide you; and education and training to help you achieve a sustainable weight loss goal.

Q: How will my weight-loss results compare with other diet programs?
A: You can expect to lose more weight with the Gastric Balloon System. Because you will feel full sooner and longer after small meals – a result of the intragastric Balloon placed in stomach - you are better able to control your eating and make healthy changes in your eating habits.

Q: How is the intragastric Balloon device placed and removed from my stomach without surgery?
A: Placement of the Balloon generally takes about 20-30 minutes during which you will be lightly sedated. The deflated Balloon is inserted into your stomach through your mouth (endoscopically). Immediately after the Balloon is placed and filled with sterile water, you will regain complete awareness and remain in the clinic for observation until the doctor discharges you. The intragastric Balloon is removed through the mouth in a similar manner, under the same supervised conditions.

Q: Will this intragastric Balloon device limit my activity?
A: The first week you should not plan any heavy activity. Once your body has adjusted to the intragastric Balloon however, you can continue your normal activities. Starting a regular exercise program is highly recommended and will improve your success.

Q: Can I eat anything I want? Are there specific food or alcohol restrictions?
A: You will not feel like eating as much as you used to. In addition, if you eat fatty foods or sweets, you may feel sick. Excessive overeating while the intragastric Balloon in place can be dangerous and can result in a serious medical condition. Alcohol in moderation is fine.

Q: What about side effects or complications?
A: The first three to five days can be very difficult. Cramping, nausea and vomiting are normal and should be expected. It is very important that you follow your doctor’s instructions and drink plenty of fluids. Your doctor may prescribe you medications to help ease the discomfort.

Q: How long will it take to recover after the procedure?
A: You should plan at least three days of inactivity to recover from the procedure. You will be able to resume normal activity sooner or later than this depending on how quickly your body adjusts to the intragastric Balloon .

Q: Will I be able to feel the intragastric Balloon in my stomach?
A: There will be discomfort during the first few days. After that, the primary sensation of the device is a feeling of fullness.

Q: Does the Gastric Balloon System require frequent visits to my doctor after the procedure?
A: The follow-up program is critical to success with the Gastric Balloon System, and in learning new lifestyle skills. You should meet with your physician and support team at least monthly while the intragastric Balloon is in place. During this time your progress will be evaluated and you will learn valuable principles of health, nutrition, and exercise that will provide you with a foundation for long-term success.

Q: Who do I talk about this, and where do I go to get the Gastric Balloon System?
A: A qualified and trained physician is the best person to answer questions you may have and the only person who can start you on the Gastric Balloon System weight loss journey. There are several such physicians practicing across the country: [Hyperlink: Find A Clinic]

Q: Why can the device only be used for 6 months?
A: The Gastric Balloon System intragastric Balloon must be removed after six months. If the intragastric Balloon is not removed at this time interval, it can leak and deflate. It will likely pass through your body naturally, however in some cases it may need to be removed by your doctor.

Q: How quickly will I lose the weight?
A: The time frame for weight loss will vary from patient to patient, and will depend to large degree on how well they adapt to the Gastric Balloon System, alter their eating behaviour, and adopt an exercise regimen. However, experience has shown that 70-80% of a patient's weight loss typically occurs during the first three months of treatment.

Q: Will I regain the weight after the Gastric Balloon System is removed?
A: Patients who alter their eating behaviour, and adopt an exercise regimen have seen the greatest and most sustained success. There are no miracles in weight loss, as you well know.

Q: Will my insurance company cover the cost or offer assistance for this procedure?
A: Coverage varies for each insurance company. Please contact your insurance company and supply them with category number B-50000. We also strongly encourage you to contact a clinic near you for specific procedure costs and payment plans they offer.

Q: Does the Government offer assistance for this procedure?
A: Unfortunately, the government does not currently offer assistance for the Gastric Balloon System procedure. There may be opportunities to receive a medical expense tax credit for this procedure. We encourage you to contact your accountant for assistance.

Arm Lift

Beauty for Life: enhancing your appearance with an arm lift

Fluctuations in weight, growing older and even heredity can cause your upper arms to have a drooping, sagging appearance. Exercise may strengthen and improve the underlying muscle tone of the upper arm, but it cannot address excess skin that has lost elasticity or underlying weakened tissues and localized fat deposits.

If the underside of your upper arms are sagging or appear loose and full due to excess skin and fat, an arm lift may be right for you.

An arm lift:

Reduces excess skin and fat between the underarm and the elbow
Reshapes your arm to result in smoother skin and contours
Results in a more toned and proportionate appearance

A special note: in order to achieve your improved image, there will be a scar on the inside of your upper arm.

What is an arm lift?

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the under portion of the upper arm, from the underarm region to the elbow.

An arm lift procedure is performed to:

Reduce excess sagging skin that droops downward
Tighten and smooth the underlying supportive tissue that defines the shape of the upper arm
Reduce localized pockets of fat in the upper arm region

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Is an Arm Lift Right for You?

In general, candidates for an arm lift include:

Adults with significant upper arm skin laxity
Adults of any age whose weight is relatively stable and who are not significantly overweight
Healthy individuals who do not have medical conditions that can impair healing or increase risk of surgery
Non-smokers
Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations

Procedural Steps for an Arm Lift

Step1 – Anesthesia

Medications are administred for your comfort during the surgical procedures. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recomment the best choice for you.

Step 2 – The Incision
Incision length and pattern depend on the amount and location of excess skin to be removed, as well as the best judgment of your plastic surgeon. Incisions are generally placed on the inside of the arm or on the back of the arm. The location of the incision will depend on the surgeon’s preference and it may extend from the underarm (axilla) to just above the elbow. If fat is to be reduced during your arm lift, it will be excised or treated with liposuction.

Depending on your specific conditions, incisions may be more limited. Then, underlying supportive tissue is tightened and reshaped with internal sutures. Finally, the skin is smoothed over the contour of your arm.

Step 3 Closing the Incisions
Your incisions will be closed with absorbable sutures, or stitches that will be removed within 1-2 weeks following your arm lift.

Step 4 – See the Results
The smoother, tighter contours that result from brachioplasty are apparent almost immediately following your procedure, although initial results will be somewhat obscured by swelling and bruising. Your new shapely and toned upper arm is dramatically improved both in appearance and feel.

Recovery

Following your surgery, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and your arms may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling. A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect as a result of your arm lift procedure

Results

The results of an arm lift will be long-lasting and will be visible almost immediately. However, it may take several months for the final results to fully develop.

Some visible scars will remain, but the overall results are long lasting, provided that you maintain a stable weight and general fitness. As your body ages, it is natural to lose some firmness, however, most of your initial improvement from an arm lift should be relatively permanent.

Gastric Bypass Surgeries - The Gastric Band

Long-term weight loss that will change your life. The lapband gastric bypass surgery.

Bluewater Sugrical is now offering Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding which is one of several types of gastric bypass surgeries. The Gastric Band System is a safe and effective solution for obesity.

If you are seriously overweight and diets and exercise simply are not working for you, gastric bypass surgeries can help. The Gastric Band System offers a minimally invasive procedure involves placing an adjustable band around your stomach to make it smaller, so you eat less, safely lose weight and keep it off.

Losing weight with the Gastric Band can improve your health, reduce your risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer, hypertension and other serious conditions, and significantly improve your quality of life. Gastric bypass surgeries are reliable procedures that have helped hundreds of thousands of people around the world lead healthier, happier lives.

WE CARE ABOUT YOUR HEALTH AND COMFORT

At Bluewater Sugical, we understand that obesity is not the result of a lack of willpower: it is a disease that requires treatment combined with compassionate care. Our integrated approach for the treatment of obesity combines a thorough assessment, the Gastric Band procedure, and a comprehensive aftercare program. Our highly-qualified doctors and dedicated staff will never be critical or judgmental. They will do their best to make you feel comfortable, and will treat you with the utmost care and respect throughout gastric bypass surgeries.

HOW THE GASTRIC BAND WORKS

The Gastric Band, a suitable choice for gastric bypass surgeries, helps you lose weight and keep it off by limiting food intake, reducing appetite and slowing digestion.

During the procedure, the surgeon places an inflatable silicone ring around the upper part of your stomach. The newly created small upper stomach pouch limits the amount of food you can eat, and the narrowed stomach outlet increases the time it takes for your stomach to digest the food and empty. You feel full sooner, and stay full longer which is the goal of gastric bypass surgeries.

The band is adjustable, so it keeps your stomach the exact size you need to lose the optimum amount of weight at a healthy rate. An access port beneath your skin allows the surgeon to adjust the tightness of the band as needed by adding or removing saline.

ADVANTAGES OF THE GASTRIC BAND

It works. A recent article in the Canadian Medical Association Journal recommends weight loss surgery ie gastric bypass surgeries, as an acceptable option for individuals for whom all other conventional weight loss methods have failed. The Gastric Band is an excellent option for effective long-term weight loss. To date, there have been more than 300,000 Gastric Band procedures performed worldwide.

Minimal trauma. The Gastric Band is the least invasive option for gastric bypass surgeries resulting in weight loss. There’s no cutting or stapling of the stomach wall or bowel, and the laparoscopic technique means less pain, a shorter recovery time and minimal scarring.

Adjustability. Tightening or loosening the Gastric Band ensures the right degree of restriction to achieve healthy, long-term weight loss with better results of gastric bypass surgeries. Should you become pregnant or ill, the band can be loosened to accommodate your nutritional requirements and then tightened again after you have given birth or recovered from your illness so you can easily get back on the road to weight loss after this type of gastric bypass surgeries.

Reversibility. Although the band is intended to be permanent, it can be removed if needed, and your stomach will return to its original form and function.

Fewer risks. When compared to other obesity and gastric bypass surgeries or vertical banded gastroplasty, there is a much lower risk of complication and nutritional deficiencies.

AFTERCARE FOR GASTRIC BAND SURGERY

After surgery, as with all gastric bypass surgeries, you must undergo regular check-ups as an outpatient. Initially, these check-ups will be carried out monthly, but soon visits will become less frequent. The Gastric Band will gradually be filled via the injection port during the first 18 months following surgery. During this period, your weight loss and level of well-being will be monitored. Once your weight has stabilized, check-ups will be necessary on an annual basis.

By nature, the Gastric Band will cause you to eat less, feel less hunger and gradually lose your excess weight. This will lead to a healthier life style with less risk of obesity-related secondary diseases. However you will be encouraged to change your overall eating habits and begin a physician approved exercise program to receive lasting weight loss after gastric bypass surgeries.

Potential Risk, Complications and Adverse Events of Gastric Band Surgery

All surgeries carry the possibility of risks and complications, most commonly bleeding and infection. Obese patients are also at higher risk during surgery. Your surgeon will discuss those risks with you as part of your assessment prior to gastric bypass surgeries.
During the procedure, there is a very small potential for injury of the stomach, esophagus, liver or spleen or major blood loss. Rarely, this may require that the surgeons move from laparoscopic surgery to the conventional open approach. Heart, liver or kidney disease can increase the risks of the surgery. Death is always a risk of any surgery.

GASTRIC BAND SPECIFIC RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS

A number of recent studies agree that the Gastric Band procedure is the safest surgical option for treating obesity. Complications are usually not serious, though some may require hospitalization and additional surgery.

Potential complications from Gastric Band System surgery may include band slippage (occurs in 1-2% of patients) or band erosion (occurs in less than 1 in 1000 patients). Very rarely, they may include port site pain or displacement and leakage of the reservoir, tubing or band. If you have any complications or painful symptoms after gastric bypass surgeries, please tell your doctor right away.

Am I a candidate for Gastric Band surgery?

The Gastric Band is designed for people who are seriously overweight and have tried many times to lose weight without long-term success. Gastric bypass surgeries are not for someone looking to lose 20 or 30 pounds. If you are under BMI 35 and want to loose weight then you may need a gastric balloon. In this situation an alternate procedure called gastric Balloon may be an alternative. If you are interested in this please click here.

Before we proceed with Gastric Bypass surgeries, we will do a thorough assessment to see if you are a good candidate for the procedure

You may be eligible for the Gastric Band procedure if:

You are at least 21 years of age.
Your BMI is 35 or more, or you are at least 100 pounds overweight.
You have weight-related health problems (co-morbidities).
You have been overweight for over five years.
You have seriously attempted weight loss, but it has resulted only in short-term success.
You are not suffering from a disease that has caused you to be seriously overweight.
You are prepared to make significant changes to your eating habits and lifestyle.
You are willing to be monitored by us on a long-term basis.
You do not drink alcohol in excess.

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