Amazing story how Dr. Sosa became a Pioneer in Bariatric Surgery
Welcome back! Today, I’m sharing how my career took an unexpected turn from general and trauma surgery to specializing in bariatric surgery.
A Serendipitous Shift
It all started by chance. As a trauma surgeon and intensivist at a Level 2 trauma center in Delray, I also ran a general surgery practice in Hialeah. One Saturday, a friend invited me to a seminar on laparoscopic bariatric surgery, promising a lunch afterward. Initially uninterested, I decided to attend.
The seminar featured live video sessions of bariatric surgeries performed by experts from around the country. While I was initially unimpressed, one surgeon’s laparoscopic gastric bypass caught my attention. The procedures he performed were techniques I was already familiar with from trauma and general surgery. Seeing how expertly he executed these familiar techniques in bariatric surgery inspired me to explore this field.
After the seminar, I told my friends I was going to start performing bariatric surgeries. I informed my office manager, to let patients know I was adding bariatric surgery to my practice. My first patient, whom I told I was new to bariatric surgery but had extensive experience in related techniques, agreed to proceed. Within a year, I was performing 700 to 800 bariatric surgeries annually. As my practice grew, I shifted focus away from trauma surgery to concentrate on bariatrics, which I found more fulfilling.
Pioneering in Bariatric Surgery
When I began, bariatric surgery was still emerging in South Florida. I was one of the few in the tri-county area to offer it. Over the years, the field has expanded, but my early start and extensive experience set me apart.
Combining Expertise: Trauma and Critical Care
Despite transitioning to bariatric surgery, I maintained certifications in trauma and critical care. If a patient encounters complications, I can provide specialized care in the ICU, ensuring a higher level of personalized attention compared to general intensivists.
Developing Specialized Bariatric Vitamins
Another significant contribution I made was developing a line of bariatric vitamins. Initially, there were few options that met the unique needs of bariatric patients, particularly regarding B complex and fat-soluble vitamins. I researched and formulated a vitamin blend that has been used for over 20 years. Although the label now features my name, the formulation remains unchanged and effective.
Addressing Common Post-Surgery Questions
Patients often ask about the impact of vitamins on appetite. Bariatric vitamins do not suppress appetite but help address deficiencies due to dietary restrictions. For those on a low-calorie diet, supplements ensure adequate nutrient intake without excessive calories.
Post-Surgery Activity Guidelines
For post-surgery patients, the general guideline is to wait six weeks before swimming or going to the beach. This period ensures wound healing and reduces the risk of infection. If wounds are still open by six weeks, avoid standing water.
Dealing with Digestive Issues
If you experience digestive issues or frequent bathroom visits after eating, it might be due to overeating or consuming high-sugar foods. A food diary can help identify triggers, and adjustments to diet can alleviate these problems.
Hair Loss Prevention
Protein intake is crucial in preventing hair loss after surgery. Hair loss often occurs during the initial post-surgery period due to insufficient protein. Maintaining a high-protein diet and using supplements can prevent this issue. For persistent hair loss, treatments like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) can help.
Personal Insights and Tips
Incorporating cardio into workouts is essential, though it’s a personal challenge. Balanced workouts, including both resistance training and cardio, are crucial. Additionally, focusing on leg workouts can enhance overall metabolic efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Balancing your workout routine and maintaining a detailed food diary are key to long-term success in managing weight and health. Whether adjusting to a new diet or refining your exercise regimen, consistency and awareness are vital.
For further questions or personal advice, feel free to call or text us at 786-559-0803 or join us next Wednesday at 12:30 PM. We’re here to support you on your health journey!