Lap-band surgeryalso called laparoscopic gastric banding or gastric band surgeryis a popular surgical procedure for weight loss.
The lap-band procedure is reversible, but is it safe?
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How Does Lap-Band Surgery Work?
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This is usually done laparoscopically and under general anesthesia.
Furthermore, lap-band surgery is reversible as the band can be removed without permanently changing the stomach anatomy.
Who Is Lap-Band Surgery For?
You may be a candidate for lap-band surgery if you have obesity and suffer from related health conditions.
Lap-band surgery is less invasive than other types ofbariatric surgery.
It’s also reversible if you experience complications.
Lap-band surgery generally has fewer complications than other types of weight loss surgery.
However, it doesn’t usually result in the same amount of weight loss as other options.
After all, it is a life-changing procedure meant to be permanent and requires a strong commitment to change.
Consider these factors if you are wondering whether lap-band surgery is the right option for you.
Does Gastric Banding Help Treat Obesity-Related Health Conditions?
Many people considering lap-band surgery have preexisting health conditions andobesity.
Many health conditions can develop or worsen as body weight increases.
Requirements to Qualify for Lap-Band Surgery
Not everyone is a good candidate for lap-band surgery.
BMI is a dated, flawed measure.
It does not take into account factors such asbody composition, ethnicity, sex, race, and age.
How to Prepare for Lap-Band Surgery
Preparing for lap-band surgery can be stressful.
Planning can help the procedure and recovery go smoothly.
Your healthcare provider will provide detailed instructions and outline any required lifestyle changes in the months before your surgery.
What Happens During Lap-Band Surgery?
Lap-band surgery requires general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep while it is performed.
It takes between 30 and 60 minutes to complete.
A silicone band is placed around your stomach to divide it into two pouches.
The pouch on top will be smaller than the one on the bottom.
Then, a small port will be inserted just beneath the skin on your abdomen.
Changing the amount of fluid in your band tightens or loosens it depending on your health goals.
Plan to stay overnight in the hospital for at least one night following this surgery.
Whats My Diet Like After Gastric Band Surgery?
Having gastric band surgery makes your stomach physically smaller.
This translates to being unable to consume as much food in one sitting as before.
If you were to venture to eat solid foods right after your surgery, you would likely experience vomiting.
You will slowly transition to apureed diet, a soft foods diet, and a solid diet afterward.
Expect this dietary transition period to last at least one month after surgery.
Eating after lap-band surgery requires slowing down and eating smaller portion sizes.
This is an excellent opportunity to practice mindfulness when eating.
With the reduced volume and variety of food in your diet comes a higher risk of developing nutritional deficiencies.
Take your supplements as prescribed.
It’s essential to stay in close communication with your healthcare providers following lap-band surgery.
Physical movement is also essential following lap-band surgery.
This helps prevent blood clots, promotes healthy circulation, and supports your overall healing process.
You will receive instructions for safe physical activity at home.
Aftercare will also include monitoring your blood work and evaluating symptoms like heartburn, nausea, and pain.
You will also have a plan for wound care to keep the incision sites clean.
How Long Does a Lap-Band Last?
Lap bands are designed to last forever, but that’s not always the case.
They may be placed permanently but are also reversible and can be removed.
You should see your healthcare provider regularly to monitor and adjust your band size as needed.
This is primarily because the individual does not lose enough weight or experiences significant long-term complications warranting reversal.
All surgeries come with potential risks and benefits, which vary depending on the procedure and your overall health.
How Much Weight Could You Lose With Gastric Banding?
Everyone who undergoes lap-band surgery is different and has unique factors to consider.
This also goes for how much weight one can expect to lose after having the procedure.
With good compliance, you’re free to lose additional weight at around two pounds per week.
Weight loss following lap-band surgery is often slower than that after other weight loss surgeries.
Patience and consistency are key.
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