Bariatric Surgeon Abel González — Providing a Variety of Effective Weight-Loss Procedures

Dr. Abel González works to transform the lives of individuals suffering from morbid obesity. Using his considerable training and experience in a variety of advanced laparoscopic bariatric procedures, he helps patients achieve their weight-loss goals and enjoy the health and quality of life they deserve. Dr. González is also committed to providing the ultimate in patient care before, during, and after bariatric surgery.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery

Dr. González is proud to offer sleeve gastrectomy surgery for obesity treatment, one of the newest restrictive procedures in the bariatric field. Sleeve gastrectomy works by reducing the size of the stomach to limit the amount of food it can hold, ultimately leading to drastic weight loss. The operation is performed laparoscopically, which results in a quicker recovery.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Procedure

Sleeve gastrectomy vertically reduces the volume of the stomach by restricting and removing approximately 85 percent of it, thereby creating a much smaller, tube-shaped stomach pouch. This newly shaped stomach is then stapled shut. The entire procedure takes approximately one hour. Sleeve gastrectomy cannot be reversed since the operation involves removing a large portion of the stomach. However, the stomach valve and nerves remain intact, as do the intestines, allowing the digestive system to function normally following surgery.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery Benefits

Sleeve gastrectomy is a safe and reasonable surgical weight-loss alternative for obese individuals who do not wish to undergo surgery using the LAP-BAND® System. On average, patients who undergo vertical sleeve gastrectomy lose 60 percent to 80 percent of their excess body weight. Because the surgery does not involve an intestinal bypass, patients can avoid potentially costly and long-term complications such as protein and vitamin deficiencies, osteoporosis, anemia, marginal ulcers, dumping syndrome, intestinal obstructions, and more.

In addition, while other restrictive weight-loss surgery methods often restrict the types of foods patients are allowed to eat, sleeve gastrectomy allows them to eat virtually whatever they like, albeit in small amounts. The procedure also removes the part of the stomach that secretes the hormone Ghrelin, which is responsible for controlling appetite and hunger. Without this hormone, patients experience a loss of hunger and appetite.

Finally, patients recover more quickly after sleeve gastrectomy, since it is performed laparoscopically. If you would like to learn more about this highly effective weight-loss procedure or would like to schedule a consultation at our practice in the Dominican Republic, contact us today.

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Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass is a restrictive-malabsorptive bariatric procedure that alters the digestive tract so that food bypasses certain areas, preventing the body from absorbing too many calories. The procedure allows morbidly obese individuals to lose a significant amount of their excess weight. Dr. González performs gastric bypass surgery laparoscopically for minimal scarring and a faster recovery time.

Gastric Bypass Procedure

Gastric bypass surgery involves stapling off a section of the upper stomach to create a small pouch the size of a walnut, effectively reducing the size of the stomach. Next, the small intestine is divided into two separate portions, creating an upper and a lower half. The lower section of the small intestine is connected to the stomach pouch so that all digested food bypasses the lower portion of the stomach and the duodenum, where most calories are absorbed. Doing this allows pancreatic fluid and bile from the stomach to enter the system for proper digestion. The entire process takes about four hours.

Gastric Bypass Surgery Benefits

The primary benefit of gastric bypass surgery is substantial weight loss. The average patient loses about 10 pounds every month following surgery, or an average of 75 percent of their excess body weight within one year. Patients experience an improvement in mobility and their overall quality of life, as well as a reduction in the risk of premature death. They also enjoy a decreased risk of developing 90 percent of obesity-related medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, and more. For more information on gastric bypass surgery, contact Dr. González today.

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Intragastric Balloon Treatment

Our practice is proud to offer intragastric balloon treatment as an effective non-surgical bariatric alternative to treat individuals suffering from obesity. This restrictive bariatric procedure uses a silicone balloon to limit food intake by making patients feel fuller faster, eventually resulting in significant weight loss.

During the procedure, the balloon is inserted into the stomach endoscopically, then filled with saline fluid through a catheter. When the balloon is full, the catheter is gently pulled out and the balloon seals shut. Since the expanded balloon is too big to pass through the bowel, it remains in the stomach, essentially tricking the body into feeling that it's ingested more food than it has. As a result, the patient's appetite is greatly reduced. The entire procedure takes approximately half an hour, and the balloon continues working for roughly six months. Patients who choose to undergo intragastric balloon treatment are pleased with how effectively it promotes healthier and smaller meal portions.

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LAP-BAND® System

Gastric LAP-BAND® System surgery is a restrictive weight-loss procedure that severely limits the amount of food an individual can consume. This is done by using an adjustable plastic band to constrict a section of the stomach, creating a smaller stomach chamber. During the procedure, the LAP-BAND® System is inserted into the abdominal area through a small laparoscopic incision, and then moved into place. The band is then placed over a small section on the upper part of the stomach and clasped into position, creating a small pouch, which can be adjusted at any time. The result is a smaller stomach chamber that holds less food. The surgery has a short recovery period and is easily reversible, making it a popular treatment for many individuals suffering from morbid obesity. Contact our practice to schedule a consultation for LAP-BAND® System surgery.

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General Surgery Procedures

Dr. Abel González also offers a broad range of general surgery procedures to complement his outstanding bariatric services. The following is a list of general procedures provided at his practice:

If you would like more information regarding these surgical procedures, please contact our practice.

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Contact Centro de Medicina Avanzada Dr. Abel González

For more information or to schedule a consultation for sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, intragastric balloon treatment, or LAP-BAND® System surgery, please contact our practice. If you are traveling from outside the Dominican Republic, ask about our tourist accommodations.







Dr. Abel R. Gonzalez
Abraham Lincoln #953
Santo Domingo
Dominican Republic

Toll Free: 1.866.410.3533
Direct: 1.809.540.2278
Fx: 1.809.541.2303