Lap band surgery has long been used as an effective weight loss method. But those that know a bit about it realize it’s not a magic cure-all. So, what exactly can you expect after a lap band procedure? And does it really work? Read on to find out.
What is Lap Band Surgery?
Also called gastric band surgery, lap band surgery involves having a device surgically implanted to restrict the amount of food you can eat at a time. It reduces the size of your stomach without permanently dividing it. In doing so, it allows the stomach to only hold a certain amount of food, so you eat less.
Does Lap Band Surgery Really Work?
Yes, lap band surgery has been proven to be effective in helping you reach your weight loss goals. It has been shown to help people lose about 40% of excess weight over two years. So, if you are 100 lbs. overweight, you can expect to lose around 40 pounds after lap band surgery.
While this is a good start, other surgeries that divide the stomach can result in more weight loss. However, lap band surgery is recommended as it’s less permanent and less extreme. The band can be adjusted any time.
People can also lose more weight with lap band surgery if they adopt a healthy diet and exercise routine.
Am I Eligible for Lap Band Surgery?
You may be eligible for lap band surgery if:
- You have a BMI of 40 or higher
- You have a BMI of 35 or higher and have at least one obesity-related condition
You’ll also have to undergo a medical screening before you are approved for lap band surgery. This will include physical exams, blood tests and imaging tests of your abdomen to ensure you are healthy enough to withstand surgery. If you smoke or are a heavy user of opioids or alcohol, you’ll have to quit before you get the surgery.
What to Expect
Lap band surgery is relatively non-invasive. Instead of making one incision across your abdomen, the surgeon will make several keyhole incisions. This makes for a relatively short procedure and recovery time.
While you recover, you will be limited to liquid foods. Eventually you will move on to soft and pureed foods before graduating to solid foods. Once you start on solids, you must control what you eat as overeating will cause nausea and vomiting.
During the first year, you will have several follow-up visits with your healthcare provider. Blood tests will be taken to ensure you have enough nutrients in your diet. You may have to get your lap band tightened as your stomach shrinks with weight loss.
Lap band surgery is designed to last a lifetime, but some end up having theirs removed within the first ten years due to complications.
If you have been trying to lose weight with little success, lap band surgery may be your best option. Now that you know what’s involved, you can decide if it’s the best solution for meeting your fitness goals. Will you be discussing the possibility with your healthcare provider?
