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The Procedure

What are the benefits of the LAP-BAND® System?
The LAP-BAND® System is the least invasive medical procedure and has lower complication rates than any other weight-loss procedure, since it does not involve stomach cutting, stapling, or intestinal re-routing. This procedure results in a feeling of fullness, limits food consumption, and is the only medical procedure that is adjustable and reversible. Additionally, the LAP-BAND® System is the safest weight-loss procedure and has one-tenth the mortality rate of gastric-bypass procedures.

How long is the average recovery period?
The average hospital stay is less than 24 hours. Typically, it takes about a week to before you can return to work and about a month to six weeks before you can resume exercise.

How many band adjustments are suggested?
It depends on each individual case. Many patients have between five and eight adjustments within the first year after the procedure. However, adjustments are customized to meet individual needs. Do not be in a hurry to have an adjustment as the LAP-BAND® System offers you a way to experience steady and safe weight loss.

What fluid is used to fill or adjust the LAP-BAND® System?
Sterile saline (salt water similar to tears) is used to fill or adjust the LAP-BAND® System.

Will I need to take vitamin supplements?
It is possible that you may have to take vitamin supplements as you may not be getting enough vitamins from three small meals a day. At your regular check-ups, your specialist will evaluate whether you are getting enough vitamin B, folic acid, iron, and other essential minerals and vitamins.

Why are diet and exercise important after having the LAP-BAND® System procedure?
Remember that weight-loss procedures are not a quick fix. The LAP-BAND® System is only a tool to help you lose weight, and your motivation and commitment to a new lifestyle are key to your success. Without following post-procedural nutrition and exercise guidelines, your success with the LAP-BAND® System may be greatly reduced. For example, if you are drinking liquids with your food, you will not feel full and may not lose as much weight as you would otherwise. Regular exercise will not only help you lose even more weight, but it will also help improve your overall health and well-being.

Can the LAP-BAND® System be removed?
Although it is not meant to be removed, the LAP-BAND® System can be removed at any time. In fact, it is the only reversible weight-loss procedure option. When the LAP-BAND® System is removed, the stomach will typically return to its original shape, resulting in weight gain.

What are the risks and complications associated with the LAP-BAND® System procedure?
As with any procedure, there are risks associated with the LAP-BAND® System procedure. These include the standard risks of any medical procedure, such as infection. Other risks include, but are not limited to, nausea and vomiting, band slippage, band erosion, and access port problems. For detailed risk information on the LAP-BAND® System, visit our Risk Information page and be sure to talk to your physician.

Can I become pregnant after the procedure?
Becoming pregnant can be easier as you lose weight. Your menstrual cycle may become more regular. In addition, the LAP-BAND® System's adjustability feature supports pregnancy. If you need to eat more while you are pregnant, the band can be loosened. After pregnancy, the band may be made tighter again and you can resume losing weight.

Does the LAP-BAND® System require frequent visits to the physician after surgery?
Check-ups with your physician are extremely important and highly recommended before and after the procedure. During the first year after the procedure, patients typically visit their physicians every four to six weeks, although the exact number of check-ups will vary from patient to patient. Band adjustments can be made during these visits.

Will I need cosmetic surgery for the surplus skin after I have lost weight?
That is not always the case. As a rule, cosmetic surgery should not be considered for at least a year or two after the LAP-BAND® System procedure since oftentimes the skin will mold itself around the new body tissue. Give the skin the time it needs to adjust before you decide to have cosmetic surgery.

What are the benefits of the LAP-BAND® System?