Expert Gastric Banding with Dr. Sergey Terushkin at Goal BMI
Key Takeaway:
Please call (347) 830-3003 and speak with Patient Coordinator, or fill out the form and we will contact you at your convenience. 480 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Approved by the FDA in 2001, Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB) is a long-term weight loss solution for patients with a BMI of 30+ (with comorbidities) or 35+.
Unlike gastric bypass, there is no cutting or stapling of the stomach. Instead, Dr. Terushkin places a biocompatible silicone ring around the upper stomach. This creates a small “pouch” roughly the size of a walnut.
A Partnership for Long-Term Results: Weight loss surgery is a partnership, not a one-time event. You need a surgeon who specializes in long-term band management.
Dr. Sergey Terushkin is a Board-Certified General & Bariatric Surgeon and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).
Comprehensive Care: Our team includes nutritionists and coordinators who monitor your progress for years, not just weeks.
Safety Record: Dr. Terushkin utilizes advanced laparoscopic techniques to minimize risks like band slippage or erosion.
Preparation is the key to a safe surgery and a fast recovery. Dr. Terushkin and his team at Goal BMI will guide you through every step, but here is your checklist for success:
1. The “Liver Shrinking” Diet (2 Weeks Prior). Before surgery, you must reduce the size of your liver to make the procedure safer.
2. The Support System
3. Mental Preparation
Recovering from Lap-Band is faster than Bypass, but you must follow this clinical timeline to prevent vomiting and ensure the band stays in place.
We believe weight loss care should be accessible to everyone in New York. We have structured our payment and care options to remove barriers to your health.
We believe weight loss care should be accessible to everyone. We have structured our payment and care options to remove barriers to your health.
💻 Telehealth Services: Busy schedule? We offer virtual consultations and follow-up nutrition appointments via video call. This is perfect for patients in Queens, Staten Island, or New Jersey who want expert care but want to minimize trips over the Verrazzano or BQE.
💰 Insurance Coverage Dr. Terushkin accepts most major New York insurance plans. If your BMI meets the medical necessity criteria (typically BMI 35+ or 30+ with comorbidities), your surgery may be fully covered.
💳 Self-Pay & Financing No insurance? High deductible? No problem.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Easy commute, great results.” “I live in Red Hook, so having Dr. Terushkin right on Court Street was a lifesaver. The surgery was smooth, and poping in for adjustments is so easy. Down 60lbs!” — Jessica M., Red Hook, Brooklyn
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Worth the trip from Staten Island.” “I drive over the Verrazzano to see Dr. Terushkin because I trust him. The office is clean, the staff handles all the insurance headaches, and the results speak for themselves.” — Mark T., Staten Island, NY
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Compassionate & Skilled” “I was nervous about surgery, but Dr. Terushkin’s team explained everything about the financing. The surgery was quick, and I was back to work in 5 days. Highly recommend Goal BMI.” — Elena R., Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great Results, minimal scarring.” “Dr. Terushkin is an artist. My incisions are barely visible. The band has given me the tool I needed to control my portions. The staff at the Court Street office is always friendly and helpful.” — David P., Cobble Hill, Brooklyn
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Finally comfortable in my own skin.” “I revised an old procedure with Dr. Terushkin. His expertise is obvious. If you are looking for weight loss surgery in NYC, this is the place.” — Maria G., Queens, NY
Free Insurance Verification & Consultation. Don’t wait to reclaim your health. Visit Brooklyn’s top-rated bariatric team.
Q: Can I ever eat bread, rice, or pasta again?
A: This is the #1 question we hear. While no food is strictly “forbidden,” starchy foods like soft bread, white rice, and pasta tend to swell in the stomach and can cause a blockage or discomfort (getting “stuck”). Dr. Terushkin recommends focusing on nutrient-dense proteins and vegetables. If you eat grains, stick to small amounts of toasted whole-grain bread or brown rice, and chew thoroughly.
Q: Can I drink alcohol after Lap-Band surgery?
A: Yes, but with caution. You should avoid alcohol for the first few months while healing. Long-term, remember two things:
Q: Can I get pregnant with a Lap-Band?
A: Absolutely. In fact, weight loss often boosts fertility (PCOS improvement). The Lap-Band is ideal for future mothers because it is adjustable. If you become pregnant, Dr. Terushkin can remove fluid from the band to allow you to eat enough nutrition for the baby, and then tighten it again after delivery.
Q: Will I have a lot of loose skin?
A: Because Lap-Band weight loss is generally more gradual (1–2 lbs per week) than Gastric Sleeve or Bypass, your skin has more time to retain its elasticity. However, this depends on your age, genetics, and total weight lost.
Q: What does a “Band Adjustment” feel like? Does it hurt?
A: Adjustments are quick and generally painless. Dr. Terushkin performs them right here in our Court Street office. He uses a thin needle to access the port under your skin. You might feel a tiny pinch (like a mosquito bite), but the process takes less than 5 minutes. Numbing cream is available if you are nervous!
Q: How do I know if my band has slipped?
A: Band slippage is rare but possible. Warning signs include severe heartburn (GERD), a coughing spell at night (reflux), or sudden inability to keep liquids down. If you experience these, call us at (347) 830-3003 immediately. Dr. Terushkin can often fix minor issues by simply removing fluid.
Q: Why choose Lap-Band over Gastric Sleeve?
A: The “Sleeve” involves permanently removing 80% of your stomach. The Lap-Band is for patients who want a reversible option that keeps their anatomy intact. It offers lower peri-operative risks and no vitamin malabsorption, but it requires more follow-up visits for adjustments.
Q: Does insurance cover the removal of the band?
A: Yes. If you experience complications or if the band is no longer medically necessary, insurance typically covers the removal. If you wish to convert to a different surgery (Revision Surgery), Dr. Terushkin can discuss those options with you.
Q: I’m self-pay. How much does it cost?
A: We offer competitive self-pay packages for Brooklyn patients that include the surgery, anesthesia, and facility fees. Because prices can change and depend on your specific health needs, please fill out our [Contact Form] or call us for a personalized quote.
Q: Do you offer weekend appointments?
A: We understand New Yorkers are busy. While surgery is typically scheduled on weekdays, we offer flexible consultation hours. Please contact our coordinator to check our current Saturday availability at the Court Street location.
Disclaimer: The content on this website is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or establish a doctor-patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition. Weight loss results vary by individual and adherence to lifestyle changes; specific outcomes cannot be guaranteed. All surgical procedures carry risks, which should be discussed with Dr. Terushkin. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Lap-Band® is a registered trademark of its respective owner.
Real people, REAL RESULTS! Check out a few of the many people that we have helped reach their ideal weight goals over the years.
Our Philosophy Is Providing Surgical Excellence By Combining Cutting Edge Technology And Individualized Patient Care. A Few Of The Most Commonly Performed Procedures Include Laparoscopic Gastric Banding, Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery, And Laparoscopic Hernia Repair.
