Bariatric and Lap Band surgeries are two weight loss procedures for individuals who have had trouble losing weight with normal diets and whose BMI (Body Mass Index) is at least 40 or more. Both surgeries carry risks and side effects. Lap Band surgery carries the least risk and side effects. Total weight loss with the Lap Band is not as much as with Bariatric surgery.
What Is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery involves surgically reducing the size of the stomach or intestine to force a reduction in the amount of food absorption and to promote weight loss. The procedure can involve a combination of modifying, bypassing, sealing and/or removing part of the stomach or intestine. Using one or more combinations will depend on your weight and overall health.
Side Effects of Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery can reduce the size of the stomach by up to 90% but there are side effects. Some possible side effects include developing an abdominal hernia, chest pain, collapsed lung, constipation, dehydration, enlarged heart condition, gallstones, gastrointestinal inflammation or swelling, gas and stretching of the stomach. Dumping syndrome is another major side effect after the surgery. Symptoms can include vomiting, nausea, weakness, sweating, faintness and diarrhea.
What Is Lap Band Surgery?
Lap Band surgery does not involve cutting into the stomach or intestine to reduce food absorption. The procedure is done laparoscopically on the stomach and the band is adjustable by adding or removing saline solution through a portal under the skin. The recovery is quick, your hospital stay is not as long and you don't have to worry about not being able to absorb nutrients like with Bariatric surgery. Lap Band surgery has fewer side effects and you can achieve the same results as Bariatric surgery.
Side Effects of Lap Band Surgery
Some possible side effects include implant movement, eroding, slipping and other displacement, tubing becoming disconnected from skin port, tubing kinking, band leaking, esophageal spasm, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), inflamed esophagus or stomach and infection of skin/port site.
Other Facts
Bariatric surgery has a higher mortality rate than sugeries involving the Lap Band. Only 1 in 2000 people die using the Lap Band compared to 1 in 250 with the various Bariatric surgeries. Both surgeries do involve a lifestyle change in the way you can eat. Overeating can result in vomiting and nausea. Diet restrictions are in place based on method of surgery. The Lap Band surgery doesn't have as many dietary restrictions as Bariatric surgery.
