LAP BAND (ADJUSTABLE GASTRIC BANDING) SURGERY

Feel Full Sooner

In this procedure a band is placed on the upper portion of the stomach, this divides the stomach into two portions. The band slows the emptying of food into the lower portion of the stomach; this provides a feeling of fullness with a smaller amount of food while keeping one satisfied for a longer period. This procedure is purely restrictive; there is no change in the absorption of food. The port seen at the bottom picture allows for the maintenance of the band. The port is attached to the abdominal wall. A sterile saline solution is injected through the port and can tighten the band around the stomach to further restrict portion sizes and emptying of food.

What to Expect (Adjustable Gastric Banding)

North Texas Medical Center patients may experience:

• Outpatient surgery
• Recovery of 1-2 weeks
• Surgery is Laparoscopic
• Three weeks on a liquid diet
• 5% weight loss per month
• The complication rate is 0.1%
• Follow-up with the doctor once every four to eight weeks
• No risk for dumping syndrome
• Requires fills
• Risk associated with a foreign body

Weight Loss after Lap Band

Do not compare yourself to those who have had other surgeries. Slow and steady can still win the race. The worst thing to do is get depressed with results and feel like giving up. Expect 1-3 lbs of weight loss per week in the first months after surgery. When weight loss slows to less than 2lbs a week, you should make an appointment for fill, or to visit your surgeon to reevaluate your eating habits. Weight loss should continue as long as follow-ups are maintained properly and care is taken in food choices.

It is recommended that you follow up with your surgeon every 6-8 weeks regardless of your weight loss until you have reached your goal weight.