Getting a lap band procedure performed is not as invasive or dangerous as gastric bypass surgery, but it can allow you to lose weight quickly. Lap band procedures involve having a doctor place a removable plastic band around the upper part of the stomach organ. This forces you to eat less because your stomach becomes smaller. The advantages of undergoing a lap band procedure are numerous and include rapid weight loss and the ability to take the band off once you achieve your weight goal.
Procedure
During a lap band procedure, the doctor places the patient under general anesthesia. He makes several small cuts around the abdomen to place a plastic band around the top part of the stomach, thereby making it much smaller. This band is adjustable and the doctor can make the stomach smaller or larger by tightening or releasing the band. He then stitches up the cuts and the patient is awakened. The entire procedure lasts no more than an hour.
Advantages
Lap band surgery can be helpful for those who want a minimally invasive procedure for losing weight. The procedure is quick and doesn't carry as many risks as gastric bypass surgery, since there is no permanent stitching of the stomach. It is easily reversible and the band can be taken off if the person wants to resume a normal eating pattern once weight loss is achieved. People can lose several pounds a week with the help of a lap band. It is best for obese people who have difficulty controlling their eating or who overeat. Unlike gastric bypass surgery, having a lap band does not require you to drastically change your diet.
Disadvantages
One major disadvantage to having a lap band is that you cannot eat a normal-sized meal. You may have trouble eating out with people, since you will get full within 10 minutes. You need to snack throughout the day to get adequate calories and nutrition in your body. Some side effects that may occur include lap band displacement and slipping, tubal disconnection, leakage, stomach pain, cramps, acid reflux, and a swollen esophagus. The amount of weight loss is usually not as much as it is for someone who has had gastric bypass. There is also the danger of complications from general anesthesia or an infection from surgery.
Warning
Choose a doctor who is certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, which means he has achieved a level of training and expertise that should assure you of his skill.
Tags: gastric bypass, band procedure, bypass surgery, gastric bypass surgery, band around, general anesthesia