FAQ about LAP-BAND® Surgery

Since I won’t be able to eat as much as I’m accustomed to eating, won’t I constantly feel hungry?

No. After the surgery, you’ll find yourself wanting to eat less and feeling full because your stomach will no longer be able to hold as much food as before, which will increase the time it takes for the food to travel through your digestive system. Of course, it is important for you to follow the guidelines you will be given regarding nutrition so that your appetite will be satisfied and you will not feel deprived. You will have to do your part toward meeting your weight loss goals, as the LAP-BAND® surgery is just part of the equation.

If I’m eating less, will I need to supplement my diet with vitamins?

Since your diet will change, sometimes drastically, it may be necessary to take vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, iron and folic acid. Calcium and Vitamin D are also recommended for women. We will be able to help ether or not your diet will suffice.

Will my medications need adjusting?

There could be a problem with pills getting stuck in your stoma (opening of the stomach where the band sits) and making you sick so you’ll need to check with your physician about adjusting your medications. While you’ll still need to take many, if not all, of your prescription meds, you may have to switch to opening capsules, break larger tablets into small pieces, or dissolve drugs in water. However, it’s important you do make any changes without first discussing them with your physician.

Will I still be able to enjoy an occasional alcoholic drink?

The key here is occasional. Alcohol breaks down vitamins and contains empty calories – something you want to avoid! However an occasional glass of wine or other drink will not affect your weight loss.

What happens if I get sick?

The LAP-BAND® can be adjusted, which is what gives it an advantage over other weight loss surgery options. Since some illnesses will require a higher calorie intake, we can loosen the band by removing saline, and tighten it again once you are ready to resume weight loss. In some cases, unfortunately, the band will have to be removed.

Is pregnancy possible?

Actually, you may find getting pregnant is easier than ever with the LAP-BAND® System, because your menstrual cycle will even out as you lose weight. Again, this is a situation where the band may simply be loosened throughout the pregnancy and tightened up once you’re ready to start losing again, if needed.

Will eating out be a thing of the past?

Absolutely not! Most restaurants offer great appetizers, children’s portions, or sharing meals. Order one and take your time with it so you can pace yourself with those you’re dining with who are eating full meals. If you’re going to someone’s home for a meal, just let your host know ahead of time that you won’t be eating a lot, so they won’t be offended thinking you don’t like what they’ve served!

How will my bowels be affected?

Occasionally constipation can be a problem due to the reduction in the amount of stool your body produces. If this should happen, please contact us at once.

What if I don’t lose weight?

No procedure is foolproof. Even though LAP-BAND® procedures are usually highly effective, there are cases in which they simply don’t work for certain individuals. There are a variety of reasons why this normally successful procedure does not always work. You may want to consider LAP-BAND® Revision surgery if one of the following has occurred: