Frequently Asked Questions- Lap Banding
What is the Difference Between Lap Banding and Gastric Bypass?
Lap banding surgery does not rearrange the internal anatomy. An adjustable silicone band is surgically placed over the top portion of the stomach and limits the amount of food that can be ingested.
Most patients who undergo lap banding lose weight at a slightly slower pace than someone who has gastric bypass surgery. Gastric bypass is a surgical procedure that creates a small pouch at the base of the esophagus by actually separating the stomach from the pouch. Part of the small intestine is reconfigured so it can be attached to the new pouch. Bypass surgery is restrictive and malabsorptive, because the duodenum is bypassed during the surgery. However, both lap banding and bypass patients must understand that surgery is just a tool to help them become healthy again.
How does lap banding surgery cause weight loss?
Simply. lap banding surgery works by reducing the amount of food consumed at one time. It does not interfere with the normal digestive process.
What risks are involved in lap banding surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, banding surgery may present risks. Some of the risks include band prolapse, band erosion, band slippage, and port or connecting tube-port issues.
How long will I actually be “in” the hospital?
The length of the hospital stay after lap banding is usually only a few hours or overnight at the most.
What is the hospital’s discharge criteria?
You must take enough liquids and nutrients by mouth to prevent dehydration, have no fever, have good pain control with oral medication, be able to get in and out of bed, and walk as instructed. You must also agree to follow your dietary guidelines and attend outpatient education meetings.
When can I go back to work?
Getting to pre-surgery levels of activity will vary according to your pre-operative physical condition, the type of activity, and the type of weight loss surgery you had. Many people can return to full pre-surgery levels of activity relatively soon after the banding procedure. Your surgeon will discuss restrictions at discharge.
When can I get pregnant?
It is strongly advised that women of childbearing age use the most effective forms of birth control until weight has stabilized in a healthy weight range for at least 3 months.
