Lap Band
Adjustments In Weight Loss Surgery
|
|
The Lap-Band weight loss surgery system is
designed to help those who are obese lose excess body
weight. This surgery system is often the only way for
morbidly obese people to lose the weight and keep it off. In
addition, this weight loss system has fewer side effects and
is often safer than other surgical methods. The Lap-Band
weight loss surgery is also the only surgery of this kind
that is completely customized.
There are many benefits of the Lap-Band
weight loss surgery. The biggest advantage is that the band
can be personalized to each person’s individual weight loss
needs. During the Lap-Band weight loss surgery, a silicon
band is placed around the top portion of the patient’s
stomach.
This makes a new, smaller stomach pouch where the
food goes after it is swallowed. |
Because the stomach has a
smaller capacity, patient’s undergoing this surgery cannot eat
as much at a meal. During surgery, a port is also placed from
the ring to just under the skin’s surface. At first, the ring is
left empty. This is to allow the stomach plenty of time to heal.
In addition, it gives the patient plenty of time to adjust to
their new eating habits following surgery.
After the stomach has healed, the silicone ring is
filled with saline through the port. Tubes to the access port that is
placed beneath the skin connect the band. Later, the doctor can adjust
the amount of saline in the ring. The adjustment process, which is
unique to the Lap-Band weight loss system, can help control the weight
loss. If the band is too loose, the weight loss will be inadequate.
Adding more saline will reduce the size of the stomach pouch and will
further restrict the amount of food leading into the stomach. If
weight loss becomes too rapid, then the saline can be removed to
reduce the food restriction.
Usually, the band is left empty or partially empty for
four to six weeks following the weight loss surgery. The doctor will
routinely assess your weight loss and determine whether or not the
band should be filled or left empty.
|
The weight loss surgeon will consider several
factors when determining whether or not to fill the band.
The doctor will look at the amount of weight lost to that
point, the amount of food that can be comfortably eaten and
one sitting, the patient’s exercise routine and the amount
of fluid already in the band. The amount of weight lost
using the Lap-Band system will vary from person to person,
but is generally successful.
In order for the Lap-Band weight loss surgery
to work, a patient is encouraged to stay focused on their
goals, and dedicated to their new eating and exercise
routine. The Lap-Band system is not designed to work alone.
Without a proper diet and daily exercise, patients will find
their weight loss will be more rapid. In addition, many
people prefer the Lap-Band surgery because it leads to a
more steady weight loss and has fewer complications. |
|
|
