The quest for rapid weight loss has led to various innovative and sometimes controversial methods. Among these is the tongue patch diet, a procedure that involves attaching a small piece of plastic mesh to the tongue to discourage solid food consumption. This article delves into the tongue patch diet, examining its effectiveness, potential risks, and the varying opinions of medical professionals.
What is the Tongue Patch Diet?
The tongue patch diet, also known as the Weight Reduction Patch, Chugay Patch, or Miracle Patch, is a weight loss method developed in 2009 by Dr. Nikolas Chugay, a plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills. The procedure involves surgically attaching a postage-stamp-sized piece of rough plastic mesh, typically made of Marlex (a material used in hernia repair), to the tongue with sutures. The intention is to make eating solid food painful, thus forcing the patient to consume a liquid diet and lose weight.
Dr. Chugay developed the tongue patch diet as an alternative to more invasive weight loss surgeries like gastric bypass or Lap-Band surgery. Since its introduction, the procedure has gained popularity in some areas, particularly in Venezuela, where it is offered at a lower cost.
How Does the Tongue Patch Work?
The tongue patch is designed to cause pain when the patient attempts to eat solid food. This discomfort is meant to "train" the patient to avoid solid foods and stick to a liquid diet. The patch typically remains in place for 30 days, after which it must be removed to prevent the tongue from growing around and into the mesh.
During the period the patch is in place, patients are generally advised to follow a very low-calorie liquid diet (VLCD), often consisting of protein shakes. They are also encouraged to engage in a moderate exercise regimen. The idea behind the tongue patch is that it acts as a "pattern interrupt," helping patients to break their habit of overeating and adopt healthier dietary habits.
Read also: Exploring the Science Behind Diet Patches
Effectiveness of the Tongue Patch Diet
A retrospective chart review published in The American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery (Vol. 31, No.) by Paul N. Chugay, MD, and Nikolas V. Chugay, MD, evaluated the outcomes of 81 patients who underwent the tongue patch procedure between 2009 and 2013. The study found that the mean weight loss was 16.0 lb (range = 0-37 lb). The total weight lost by all participants was 1104.5 lb. The average starting body mass index (BMI) was 32.4 (range = 24.3-45.3), and the average change in body mass index was 2.9 (range = 0-5.1).
While these results suggest that the tongue patch can be effective for short-term weight loss, it is important to consider the limitations of the study and the potential for weight regain once the patch is removed.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Despite the reported weight loss, the tongue patch diet is not without potential risks and side effects. Medical professionals have raised concerns about the safety and ethics of the procedure.
Infection
One of the primary concerns is the risk of infection. The mouth is a bacteria-rich environment, and placing a foreign object like a plastic mesh patch can increase the likelihood of infection.
Swelling and Pain
Patients may experience tongue swelling and pain, particularly in the first few days after the procedure. While Dr. Chugay claims that side effects have been minimal, other medical professionals warn that the pain could be severe.
Read also: The Truth About Weight Loss Patches
Speech Difficulty
The presence of the patch can also cause speech difficulties. The discomfort and physical obstruction may make it challenging to speak clearly.
Nerve Damage
There is a risk of nerve damage, which could lead to long-term pain and scarring of the tongue. In severe cases, this could affect chewing and speaking.
Nutritional Deficiencies
The all-liquid diet associated with the tongue patch can lead to nutritional deficiencies if not properly managed. It is essential to ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals.
Ulceration and Tissue Damage
The patch can rub against the tongue, causing ulceration and tissue damage. In extreme cases, the body may begin to "eat its own tissue," leading to muscle loss and potentially starvation.
Psychological Impact
The extreme nature of the tongue patch diet can also have psychological effects. Some individuals may find it difficult to cope with the social isolation and inconvenience of not being able to eat with friends and family.
Read also: Risks and Side Effects of Lyllana Patch
Expert Opinions and Controversies
The tongue patch diet has sparked controversy among medical professionals. While some practitioners offer the procedure, others strongly advise against it.
Support for the Procedure
Dr. Nikolas Chugay, the creator of the tongue patch diet, defends the procedure as a minimally invasive way to help overweight and obese patients lose weight. He argues that it is a safe and effective method when performed correctly.
Criticism and Concerns
Many medical professionals have expressed serious concerns about the tongue patch diet. They argue that it is a dangerous, flawed, and unethical procedure.
Dr. Christine Petti, a plastic surgeon, stated that she could never advise a procedure that would cause a patient pain and stressed that this procedure is not recommended, and will likely not be effective for long-term weight loss.
Dr. Richard Chaffoo, a plastic surgeon, called the tongue patch procedure dangerous, flawed, and unethical. He highlighted the risk of infection and tissue damage, as well as the flawed theory behind the procedure.
Other experts have raised concerns about the risk of infection, nerve damage, and nutritional deficiencies. They argue that there are safer and more effective ways to lose weight.
Alternatives to the Tongue Patch Diet
Given the potential risks and controversies surrounding the tongue patch diet, it is essential to consider alternative weight loss methods.
Diet and Exercise
The most traditional and widely recommended approach to weight loss is a combination of a balanced diet and regular exercise. This involves consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods, controlling portion sizes, and engaging in physical activity.
Medical Weight Loss Programs
Medical weight loss programs offer a more structured approach to weight loss, with guidance from healthcare professionals. These programs may involve dietary changes, exercise plans, and sometimes medication.
Bariatric Surgery
For individuals with severe obesity, bariatric surgery may be an option. Procedures like gastric bypass and Lap-Band surgery can help to reduce the size of the stomach and limit food intake.