Tongue Patch

Venezuelans dig the tongue patch.

This is a new diet fad for people with no willpower and less brain power. It was launched in 2009 by Nicholas Chugay, a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon. The patch is an abrasive piece of marlex - a material used in hernia repair - about the size of a postage stamp. It is secured to the top of the tongue by six stitches and makes consumption of solid food so painful that patients are forced to seek liquid diets.

This would not be good for me.

Patients typically lose 30 pounds in a month. It does have side effects. Patients typically have difficulty talking and it interferes with their sleep. "At the start you can't even move your tongue for the pain. I've tried to eat solid food but it's impossible. It's a huge inconvenience but I'm doing it to feel better about myself. I was very fat."

This testimony from Yomaira Jaspe in Charallave, on the outskirts of Caracas.

I am open to a new point of view. I should consult with Yomaira. She is a deep thinker.

"It's a good solution, I don't see it as extreme. It teaches you to eat differently and proves that there are alternatives." This from Yomaira's mother.

The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

The patch can only be worn for a maximum of one month. "The material has pores which allow for  in-growth of tissue. If you leave it in for more than a month it starts to become incorporated into the tongue." Dr. Chugay

How bizarre, how bizarre.

The procedure costs $2,000 in the U.S., but in Venezuela, clinics charge as little as $150.

The procedure is not FDA approved, and some physicians express concern saying there is a high risk of infection, patients drool a lot, its very painful and if it dislodges you could choke on it.

Still........................