A Lap-Band procedure is a type of gastric banding bariatric or weight-loss surgery. The outpatient operation is a less invasive choice compared to other bariatric procedures. Patients who undergo gastric banding surgery typically lose up to two-thirds of their excess pounds within two years of their procedures, according to the Consumer Guide to Bariatric Surgery.
Gastric Banding Patients
According to the National Institutes of Health, ideal gastric banding candidates have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more. Those with a BMI of 35 to 39 also can consider the weight loss surgery if they have other obesity-related health problems. Such conditions include high cholesterol and diabetes. Surgeons also may want background on prospective patients' weight history, including how and why they failed to lose weight on their own.
Gastric Banding Surgery
Gastric banding surgery restricts the amount of food a person can consume by decreasing the size of her stomach. During the operation, a surgeon wraps an inflatable, silicone band around the top portion of a patient's stomach with laparoscopic surgery. The band is attached to a port, which is placed beneath the skin. Post-surgery, patients and surgeons will meet for several follow-up band adjustments. During these visits, the surgeon tightens or loosens the gastric band as needed by injecting saline into the port.
Types of Gastric Bands
Patients who undergo gastric banding surgery in the United States may choose between one of two types of bands. Those are the Lap-Band System and the Realize Band. More than 450,000 people who have had gastric banding surgery have chosen the Lap Band, while about 100,000 patients have opted for the Realize Band, according to the products' Web sites, www.lapband.com and www.realize.com.
Recovery Time and Weight Loss
Most gastric banding patients must follow a liquid diet for the first two weeks after surgery. Over time, they may begin to consume solid foods again. People typically begin to lose weight after their first band adjustment. On average, patients need approximately six weeks of recovery time before they can begin having these adjustments, according to the Consumer Guide to Bariatric Surgery.
Eating After Surgery
The portion sizes that Lap Band and Realize Band patients can eat after surgery varies from person to person. Many patients report that their stomachs can hold only between a quarter-cup to a cup of food per meal. Additionally, some doctors recommend patients refrain from drinking anything while eating, as this may cause nausea or vomiting. Other surgeons may suggest certain nutrition and exercise plans based on a patient's individual health goals.
