Lap Band Surgery Recovery Time

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding Procedure, which is also known as lap band surgery, is a type of bariatric weight loss surgery that is suggested for people suffering from severe obesity. When obesity is of such a degree that other methods of weight loss don't seem to help, this surgical procedure can prove to be beneficial. Doctors run a series of screening tests to determine whether a person is a suitable candidate for this surgery or not. Besides analyzing the blood test results, doctors may also conduct gastroscopy and other imaging studies. Various specialists might also be consulted. In this article, we will learn about this surgical procedure along with lap band surgery recovery time.

Lap Band Surgery

Lap band surgery is a restrictive weight loss surgery that is recommended for those who are suffering from severe obesity. It is performed under general anesthesia. It involves the creation of a small pouch with an adjustable stoma or a narrow passage in the upper part of the stomach. A gastric band device is placed around the upper portion of the stomach, the place where food enters from the esophagus with the help of a laparoscope. The objective of the surgery is to limit the food intake or functional capacity of the stomach.

The device which is placed has an adjustable balloon which can reduce the size of stoma so as to induce a feeling of fullness. This helps to lower the food intake which in turn helps one to lose weight. In case the patient experiences any discomfort, the option of laparoscopic removal of gastric band is available as well. This procedure doesn't involve any stapling or cutting of the stomach. This is a minimally-invasive surgery and the patient can be discharged within 48 hours.

Recovery Time for Lap Band Surgery

Since lap band surgery is a minimally-invasive procedure that doesn't involve cutting or stapling of any organs, most patients are discharged within 48 hours. Some might even be discharged within 24 hours. Those who have undergone a lap band surgery must consult their doctor within a week. Generally a follow-up is scheduled after a week. Since this surgery alters the anatomy of the stomach, one must strictly follow dietary guidelines. One must follow a liquid diet during the first two weeks post surgery. Though 7-10 days after the procedure, you might be able to perform your daily activities, but any strenuous activity must be avoided for a period of 6 weeks after surgery. Post-operative follow-up is an essential part of this procedure. You might have to go for checkups every week during the first month. One could consult the doctor regarding any adjustments after a few months.

Adjustments could be made by injection or retraction of the saline fluid into the port of the lap band device. For those who have lost a considerable amount of weight, the diameter of the lap band device can be increased. This will slow down the rate of weight loss. Sometimes complications might arise due to slippage or deflation of band. If you are experiencing problems such as heartburn, nausea and vomiting, difficulty in swallowing, blockage of the stoma, dehydration, gastritis, constipation, ulceration and other problems associated with digestive health, you must consult the doctor soon.

This was a brief overview of lap band surgery. If you are planning to undergo this surgical procedure for losing weight, make sure that you find out more about the success rate and pros and cons of this surgery.