Eric Velazquez, MD

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the ASMBS 40th Annual Meeting, the largest bariatric surgery conference in the United States. This gathering is a cornerstone for anyone in the field of bariatric surgery, and I always find tremendous benefits in continuing my medical education through these events.

Continued education is essential in our field, and this meeting reinforced my commitment to offering the best possible care to my patients. Whether it’s validating current practices, learning about the latest technologies, or exploring new surgical techniques, the insights gained are invaluable. For instance, I attended sessions on groundbreaking minimally invasive procedures and advancements in post-operative care that I’m eager to integrate into my practice. These innovations promise to enhance patient outcomes and improve the overall surgical experience.

Another significant advantage of attending the ASMBS meeting is the opportunity to network with fellow bariatric professionals from across the nation. Engaging with peers and reconnecting with former colleagues allows for the exchange of ideas and experiences, fostering a collaborative environment that ultimately benefits our patients. These connections are not just professional; they often turn into lifelong friendships that support and inspire.

I am already looking forward to the next meeting in 2026, excited to see how our field will have evolved and what new knowledge we’ll be able to bring back to our practices. The journey of learning and improving never stops, and I am committed to being at the forefront of bariatric surgery to ensure my patients receive the highest quality care.

A cost effective scarless option for achieving your goal weight!

Last year, Longstreet Clinic's Center for Weight Management became the first practice in the area to offer ESG (Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty), an outpatient, FDA-approved non-surgical path to weight loss. Now a new study in JAMA, the peer-reviewed medical journal, finds that ESG also is a cost-effective strategy, offering greater weight loss and cost savings than semaglutide injections like Wegovy and Ozempic over a 5-year period for those designated as having class II obesity (BMI of 35-39.9). Learn more about ESG at the link in the comments.

🌟 Technology and innovation keep us at the forefront of medical advancement! 🌟

As a minimally invasive and robotic bariatric surgeon, I embrace cutting-edge technology to provide the highest level of care to my patients.

Wednesday, I had the incredible opportunity to be the first surgeon to use the innovative Titan SGS Stapler at Northside Hospital Duluth. The Titan SGS is specifically designed for the sleeve gastrectomy procedure, allowing for full longitudinal transection of the stomach with a single fire. I found it to be easy to use, ergonomic, and it did not affect my overall operative time.

Studies by Smith et al. (2023) and Johnson et al. (2022) have shown the Titan SGS Stapler's effectiveness, demonstrating enhanced precision and a significant reduction in operative time. My patients reported minimal pain on postoperative day #1, highlighting the benefits of this advanced technology.

A huge thank you to Standard Bariatrics, Inc, Teleflex, Kasey Kaspar, Gary Klimek, and Kayla Spivey Mendell for facilitating this opportunity!

🌟 Transformation Tuesday 🌟

Meet Jade, our amazing patient, who underwent a sleeve gastrectomy just 18 months ago. Her story is one of resilience and triumph.

🔹 Before:

Weight: 347 lbs
BMI: 45

🔹 After:

Weight: 188 lbs
BMI: 24

From a young age, she was active and loved playing sports. But obesity took that away from her. Today, she’s back to living an active lifestyle and has even started practicing kickboxing! 🥋💪

Her determination and hard work, combined with the power of bariatric surgery, have transformed her life. She is an inspiration to us all, proving that it's never too late to reclaim your health and passions.

Let's give her a round of applause for her incredible achievement! 👏👏

Thinking about your own health journey? Contact us, link in bio, to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals. 🌟

Honoring the brave men and women who have sacrificed for our freedom. This Memorial Day, let's remember their courage and dedication. Wishing everyone a peaceful and reflective day.

🌟 Transformation Thursday Inspiration! 🌟

Prepare to be amazed by the incredible journey of one of our outstanding patients! 👏🎉 Behold the remarkable before and after of Sofia, who has triumphantly shed an impressive 55 lbs in just 3 months after undergoing bariatric surgery! 🌟

💪 But it's not just about the numbers on the scale. As Sofia beautifully puts it: "I wanted to share with you what I’ve enjoyed most since my bariatric surgery. While the physical weight loss has been tremendously beneficial, I’ve found the mental relief to be equally transformative." 🙌

✨ The mental liberation experienced by Sofia underscores the holistic nature of our approach, emphasizing not just physical health, but mental and emotional well-being as well.

🌈💖 Join us in celebrating Sofia's incredible achievement and the profound impact it has had on her daily life! 🎉🚀

Proper ergonomics are essential for delivering consistent top performance. As a bariatric surgeon, I often face long days filled with multiple robotic procedures. Unfortunately, this has led to persistent upper back pain.

After struggling to find the right positioning to alleviate this discomfort, my friend Jeff Irish recommended a lumbar pillow that has made a world of difference. I'm thrilled to share that I can now perform multiple operations throughout the day without experiencing any upper back discomfort.

Remember, paying attention to ergonomics is crucial in whatever you do. It enhances performance, reduces fatigue, prevents injury, and extends your productive life. Invest in your comfort—your body will thank you!

Just wrapped up an incredibly insightful interview where I delved into what sets our practice apart, the transformative Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) procedure, and the invaluable role of having a steadfast partner in your weight loss journey.

🌟 Stay tuned as we prepare to share these enlightening discussions through our Longstreet Clinic channels! 📺✨ Keep your eyes peeled, because this is one release you won't want to miss! 🚀

Behind the scenes, we've been hard at work crafting something truly special for all our amazing patients and followers! 🎥✨ From the operating room to your screens, we're bringing you cutting-edge educational content that's informative, engaging, and, dare we say, downright cool! 📚

💡 Stay tuned as we gear up to unveil a treasure trove of knowledge and insights designed to empower and enrich your health journey. Trust us, you won't want to miss out on what's coming your way! 🚀

🔍📢 I am pleased to share my latest article shedding light on the significant relationship between obesity and cancer. In "Revealed: Critical Facts on Obesity and Cancer Risk You Need to Know." I delve into the complex interplay between these health challenges.

Explore the article https://ericvelazquezmd.com/revealed-critical-facts-on-obesity-and-cancer-risk-you-need-to-know/ to deepen your understanding of this crucial topic.



https://ericvelazquezmd.com/revealed-critical-facts-on-obesity-and-cancer-risk-you-need-to-know/

Revealed: Critical Facts on Obesity and Cancer Risk You Need to Know. Revealed: Critical Facts on Obesity and Cancer Risk You Need to Know. Certain cancers, including endometrial, ovarian, colon, liver, pancreatic, and postmenopausal breast cancers, are correlated with excess weight.

Recently, I had the privilege of joining a group of esteemed colleagues at the unveiling and test drive of the latest innovation in surgical technology: the Da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system. To say that I was impressed would be an understatement. This new iteration of the renowned Da Vinci system represents a significant advancement in the field.

One notable improvement is the intentional preservation of the patient cart's form, while integrating new sensors and enhanced computing power. This ensures optimal functionality while maintaining familiarity for surgical teams.

Moreover, the redesigned console offers superior ergonomics and enhanced controls, providing surgeons with improved precision and efficiency. With the ability to control insufflation, smoke evacuation, and energy management, among other functions, from either the console or the patient and vision carts, surgeons now have greater autonomy and flexibility during procedures.

Perhaps the most remarkable enhancement is the incorporation of force feedback technology, which provides surgeons with tactile feedback, enabling a more intuitive and responsive surgical experience.

In summary, the Da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system introduces several significant improvements:

1. Force Feedback Instruments: Offering surgeons tactile feedback for enhanced precision and control.

2. Improved Ergonomics: Redesigned console for better comfort and maneuverability.

3. Enhanced Surgeon Autonomy: Increased control over all functions from the console, patient cart, or vision cart.

4. Advanced Visualization: Upgraded camera technology for improved visualization during procedures.

I extend my sincere gratitude to Intuitive and their team for the invitation to experience this groundbreaking technology firsthand. I eagerly anticipate integrating this impressive piece of technology into my practice, further enhancing the care I provide to my patients.

Are you considering Wegovy for your weight loss journey? If so, you won't want to miss this must-read article brought to you by none other than Jamie Velazquez, PharmD, the brilliant mind behind The Well Rounded Pharmacist!

In our comprehensive weight loss management center, we understand the importance of patient selection when it comes to achieving success with various treatments. That's why we're thrilled to share Jamie's latest masterpiece, diving deep into everything you need to know about Semaglutide (Wegovy). 💡

From insightful tips to thoughtful guidance, Jamie has crafted an invaluable resource that's sure to empower and educate anyone considering Wegovy as part of their weight loss journey. 🚀✨

Ready to unlock the secrets to success with Wegovy? Don't miss out! Click the link below to access Jamie's expert guide, and be sure to share it with your friends and loved ones who might benefit from this invaluable information. Together, let's embark on a journey towards a healthier, happier you! 🌈💪

https://thewellroundedpharmacist.com/how-to-be-successful-with-semaglutide-wegovy-for-weight-loss/

When you're interested in setting up an appointment, come and see us at the Longstreet Clinic Center for Weight Management. Your journey to a healthier, happier you starts here! 💼💫

🌟 Exciting News Alert! 🌟

I'm always on the lookout for cutting-edge ways to enhance patient care, and this time, it's all about revolutionizing obesity treatment! 🏥💪

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to learn from the brilliant Dr. Josh Roller at Roller Weight Loss & Advanced Surgery. 🙌 During our time together, I dove deep into perfecting techniques for Bilio-Pancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD-DS) and the Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve (SADI-S) – two game-changing procedures in obesity treatment. 🩺✨

These procedures have shown jaw-dropping results in total weight loss, resolving obesity-related diseases, and sustaining weight loss long-term. 🌈 I'm beyond thrilled to bring these innovative treatments to my practice, at Longstreet Clinic Center for Weight Management, offering tailored options for every patient's unique journey. 💼💖

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to push boundaries and transform lives together! 🚀

Recently, my family and I embarked on a memorable trip to North Carolina to reconnect with relatives on my wife's side. Amidst the joy of watching our little ones run freely in the countryside, we made a special stop at a place that holds profound significance in my career: UNC Health Southeastern (formerly Southeast Regional Medical Center).

This hospital served as my inaugural workplace following the completion of my surgical residency. It was here that I sharpened my skills as a new surgeon and delved into the realms of practice management and leadership. Returning after many years stirred a deep sense of reflection on the transformative journey I've traversed since my time there.

Success is frequently attributed to luck, obscuring the years of dedication and discipline that truly underpin its attainment. Let me guide you through the initial five years of my career post-training, highlighting the invaluable assistance from others along the way.

Arriving at Southeastern Regional Medical Center in 2011, fresh from my minimally invasive and Bariatric surgery fellowship in New York, I was met with a unique opportunity. The hospital was venturing into establishing its own surgical practice, employing surgeons to enhance community access to care. Negotiating my terms, I ensured a balanced workload by welcoming Dr. Lya Crichlow as a colleague, who has since become akin to a sister to me.

Our practice commenced with the foundational cases that define community surgical care, coupled with acute care surgery, including trauma and emergencies. My passion for advancing Bariatric surgery prompted the inception of a Bariatric Program, culminating in our inaugural bariatric case in the fall of 2012.

Over the years, our practice burgeoned into a formidable team of five surgeons, offering a comprehensive array of services, including bariatric and robotic surgery. Working alongside esteemed colleagues, such as Dr. Sam Britt, from the local private practice, was an honor beyond measure.

Throughout my tenure at SRMC, I not only found professional fulfillment but also met my life partner, Jamie Velazquez, PharmD, who has been an unwavering source of support and inspiration. My penchant for leadership found fertile ground at SRMC, allowing me to assume roles such as Medical Director of Surgical Services and eventually Chair of the Department of Surgery.

I owe a debt of gratitude to the exceptional leaders and mentors who sculpted my journey, including Joann Anderson, Lynn Wieties, Sam Britt, MD, Terry Lowry, MD, and Lya Crichlow, MD. Moreover, my heartfelt thanks extend to the patients and the Lumberton, NC community for embracing me and facilitating my growth.

As I reminisce about my time at UNC Health Southeastern, I am reminded of the profound impact it had on shaping me into the surgeon and leader I am today. Each patient's trust and every community member's support have left an indelible mark on my heart. You are all dearly remembered.

🙏

Incredible journeys deserve to be celebrated, and today, I am overjoyed to share a monumental transformation with you all! Meet Devin, an absolute inspiration who has embraced the journey of transformation with courage, determination, and a heart full of hope. 💪🏼✨

On the right side of this image, you'll see Devin in a moment captured from his past, depicted in black and white as a symbol of the faded shadows he's left behind. But on the left, you'll witness the radiant glow of his present, where he stands beside me, beaming with newfound health, vitality, and an unmistakable sparkle in his eyes. 🌈💫

Devin's journey wasn't just about shedding pounds; it was about reclaiming his life in vibrant color. What he treasures most isn't just the numbers on a scale, but the boundless possibilities that now unfold before him. 💖 From playing with his beloved nieces and nephews to braving the thrilling twists and turns of rollercoasters, Devin's zest for life knows no bounds! 🎢👫

His story is a testament to the incredible transformations that are possible when courage meets action and when resilience triumphs over adversity. And as Devin's trusted guide on this journey, I couldn't be prouder to witness his transformation unfold and to see him thrive in every sense of the word. 🌟

Let's celebrate Devin's journey together and be inspired by the limitless potential that resides within each and every one of us! 🌟✨

💪🏼🌟

🏃‍♂️💪 From Engaged Lovebirds to Loving Parents: A Decade of Spartan Racing Triumphs 💪🏃‍♀️

In 2014, we embarked on our first Spartan race as newly engaged partners, fueled by adrenaline and the promise of adventure. Fast forward a decade, and here we are, crossing the finish line of our second 5K Spartan race, now as proud parents of two amazing boys.

👫💕 Our journey from fiancés to parents has been nothing short of incredible. We've weathered the highs and lows of parenthood, navigating sleepless nights and endless diaper changes with unwavering love and determination.

🔥💥 Despite the demands of parenthood, we've prioritized our health and well-being, emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before. Our bodies may have changed, but our spirit remains unbreakable.

👟💨 Racing alongside my incredible wife, Jamie Velazquez, PharmD, I'm reminded of the power of teamwork and perseverance. Together, we've conquered obstacles on the course and in life, proving that anything is possible when you have the right partner by your side.

📸✨ We went from wide-eyed fiancés to proud parents, from Spartan novices to seasoned warriors. Ours is a story of love, strength, and endless possibility.

🙌 Join us as we celebrate a decade of growth, triumph, and unforgettable memories. Here's to many more Spartan races and adventures to come!

🌟 Discover an invaluable resource for anyone on the journey to shed those extra pounds and explore weight loss medications.💪

Unlock the secrets to success with this comprehensive guide! 📚

Embark on your transformation armed with the knowledge needed to conquer the weight loss battle. 🏋️‍♂️

And yes, full disclosure, this incredible ebook happens to be penned by none other than my talented wife! 😄

Let's embark on this empowering journey together! 💫

Are you thinking about starting a weight loss medication? If so, I've crafted a concise and easily digestible eBook, packed with essential information you need to know about weight loss medications.

What's included:
1️⃣ Percent of weight loss found in clinical trials
2️⃣ Long term use considerations
3️⃣ Medication cost comparison
4️⃣ Understanding each medications frequency and route of administration
5️⃣ How side effects compare among each medication
🔥 BONUS: Online resources to save money, what to know about the compounding market, 5-Day beginner workout plan, high protein snack recipes, how to save lean muscle mass and more.

Snag my eBook now for a 20% discount! Find the link to purchase in my bio!

To deliver exceptional patient care, our program is meticulously crafted for continuous improvement and optimization.

🌟 One of our key strategies involves regular scheduled meetings, both in-person and virtually, to ensure we remain at the forefront of our field.

💼 These gatherings allow us to assess our practices, exchange insights, and fine-tune our approach, guaranteeing the highest standards of care for our patients. 💪

Save the date for our 2024 Bariatric Reunion and Celebration event. I look forward to seeing you all there!

Grateful for the enlightening session at Wisdom Project 2030! We delved into crucial topics like Obesity, steering clear of fad diets, understanding nutrition biochemistry, and pathways to enhance longevity. The depth of knowledge within the group was truly inspiring, and I'm eager to collaborate with them again. Let's keep empowering each other towards healthier, more fulfilling lives! 🌟

🤝📚

🌟 New Blog Post Alert! 🌟

Embark on a transformative journey to body neutrality with my latest article. Discover the unexpected impact of compliments, navigate dual perspectives, and embrace a supportive environment.

Let's redefine wellness together! 💙

✨
https://ericvelazquezmd.com/what-you-need-to-know-when-complementing-someone-who-has-lost-weight-the-magic-of-body-neutrality/

On this World Obesity Day, it’s crucial to shine a light on the multifaceted nature of obesity, likening it to a complex disease like cancer. Much like cancer, obesity is chronic and influenced by various factors, making it a significant health concern worldwide. Obesity isn’t just about excess weight; it’s also a precursor to numerous other serious conditions, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and even cancer.

Understanding obesity as a disease with far-reaching implications underscores the importance of a comprehensive treatment approach. Just as we address cancer with a multidisciplinary strategy involving various specialists, tackling obesity requires a similar collaborative effort. While diet and exercise play vital roles in treatment, they are just components of a larger, more holistic approach.

By approaching obesity with the same level of comprehensive care as we do with cancer, we empower patients with a greater chance of achieving positive outcomes. Through education, support, and multidisciplinary interventions, we can navigate the complexities of obesity and improve the overall health and well-being of individuals affected by this condition. Let’s use this day to spread awareness and encourage a compassionate, inclusive approach to combating obesity.

Adolescents and Weight Loss - Longstreet Clinic Longstreet Clinic’s Center for Weight Management has partnered with Northeast Georgia Health System on a new Adolescent Weight Loss Program.

🦖 Our weekend adventure took us to the Gas South Arena for the Jurassic World Live Tour, and it was an absolute thrill! As avid fans of the Jurassic Park and World franchise, our family couldn’t resist the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the world of dinosaurs. With our boys’ determined fascination with these prehistoric creatures, it was a must-see event for us.

The show exceeded all our expectations, delivering an unforgettable experience for both young and old alike. From heart-pounding action to breathtaking special effects, every moment was filled with excitement. Our boys were completely captivated, cheering enthusiastically for each and every act.

We wholeheartedly recommend this sensational family show to anyone looking for an exhilarating adventure. It’s a fantastic way to create lasting memories and share the magic of Jurassic World with loved ones. Don’t miss out on the fun! 🌟🦕

Are you ready to dive into the world of bariatric surgery complications and solutions? 🏥💡 Our latest blog post is now LIVE, and it's packed with invaluable insights that could change lives!

In this comprehensive write-up, we tackle the crucial topic of bariatric surgery complications with a compassionate yet informed approach. From understanding the inevitability of complications to exploring the various types of bariatric procedures available, we've got you covered every step of the way.

But that's not all! We delve into the nitty-gritty details of both general and procedure-specific complications, shedding light on what you need to know before considering bariatric surgery. And don't worry, we don't just stop at the risks – we also highlight the incredible benefits that bariatric surgery can bring, from diabetes resolution to cancer risk reduction.

So if you're curious about bariatric surgery, whether for yourself or a loved one, this blog post is a must-read. It's a beacon of knowledge in a sea of uncertainty, offering clarity and guidance to those seeking a healthier, happier life.

Ready to embark on this enlightening journey? Click the link below to read the full article now:

🔗 https://ericvelazquezmd.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-bariatric-surgery-complications/

And don't forget to share this post with anyone who might benefit from this valuable information. Together, let's spread awareness and empower others to take control of their health journey!

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Cherishing quality family time is a treasure beyond measure. This weekend, we indulged in the joy of togetherness at Atlanta Brickcon. Our hearts soared as the boys immersed themselves in the world of Legos, and together, we crafted a magnificent Super Mario portrait. Building memories, one brick at a time!

We have a very competitive introductory pricing!

A New Bariatric Procedure: Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty | BCA Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is an emerging procedure that has captured the attention of both clinicians and patients. This innovative technique

🌟 Unveiling a Journey of Self-Discovery! 🌟 Dive into the heart of self-love with my latest article, "Stop Being Your Own Worst Critic: A Reflection on Self Compassion and Love." 💖💪 Explore the transformative power within.

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https://ericvelazquezmd.com/stop-being-your-own-worst-critic-a-reflection-on-self-compassion-and-love/

Over the weekend, an unexpected hospital consult disrupted our family adventure. Despite the interruption, it turned into a valuable lesson for my son, Jake. I took a moment to explain to him why Daddy needed to go to the hospital – to assist a patient in need.

To my delight, I invited Jake to join me, and his eyes lit up with joy. It was an opportunity for him to understand the significance of why parents, at times, have to miss special moments. He walked alongside me through the hospital corridors, meeting the patient, who graciously allowed him to be a part of the encounter. It was a chance for Jake to witness the meaningful impact of my absence on someone else’s life.

Even weeks later, he fondly recalls that day and frequently asks about the well-being of the patient. I’m grateful for the shared experience, as it provided a glimpse into the compassionate side of my profession, leaving a lasting impression on my son.