LIFE AFTER LAP-BAND

The old adage that 'good things come to those who wait' certainly applies to the LAP-BAND procedure. This process takes time. Before surgery, the patient must go on a strict diet for a few weeks to reduce the size of the liver. After the surgery, it will be a month or two before saline can be injected into the band to allow the patient to completely recover from surgery. Finally, the patient should only expected to lose one or two pounds a week. While a person suffering from obesity may desire to lose weight more rapidly, it is actually healthier to lose weight more slowly and steadily. One potential bonus from slower weight loss is that the skin will maintain more of its elasticity and may end up less stretched and saggy once the excess fat has disappeared.

During the weight-loss process, you will meet regularly with your doctor to decide if more or less saline needs to be injected into the LAP-BAND. You will also be encouraged to commence an exercise program to stimulate more weight loss.

Over the course of time, weight loss makes patients feel much more energetic and confident in themselves while dramatically improving their health. There is generally significant improvement, if not complete resolution of medical conditions such as Type II Diabetes, Hypertension, GERD (a form of heartburn), sleep apnea and knee and ankle problems. Frequently congestive heart failure, hyperlipidemia, urinary incontinence, menstrual irregularities, infertility, back pain and hirsutism are also improved.

Long-term, the responsibility for weigh-loss rests entirely with the patient, which is why each candidate for surgery must have a resolute commitment to making the procedure work for them. While the LAP-BAND is an effective tool that can dramatically reduce physical food craving, the patient is responsible for overcoming their psychological dependency on food.