Lap Band Surgery - Benefits and Disadvantages of Lap-Band Surgery

The medical and emotional benefits of the lap-band procedure begin within a few months after surgery, and the cosmetic benefits follow in their wake. Over time the benefits of lap-band surgery may include:

  ·   Significant sustained weight loss.
  ·   Blood sugar levels that become completely normal within one year of surgery.
  ·   Lower or normal blood pressure.
  ·   Lower or normal cholesterol levels.
  ·   Relief from sleep apnea, acid reflux, and urinary stress incontinence.
  ·   Less arthritis pain and improved mobility.
  ·   Increased energy and ability to exercise.
  ·   Improved mood and self-esteem.
  ·   Arrested progression of heart disease.
  ·   Improvement of many lung conditions.
  ·   Exercise endurance.

The benefits of the Lap-Band are similar to other obesity surgery procedures. It continues to be the least invasive weight loss surgery operation available. If you're concerned about the invasiveness of gastric bypass surgery, lap-banding surgery may be a better procedure for your weight loss needs. Lap-band surgery involves no stomach stapling or cutting. No intestinal re-routing is necessary in the lap-band system. The procedure also has a lower mortality rate and fewer operative complications than gastric bypass surgery.

Another advantage of lap-band surgery is that the band can be adjusted to meet your specific weight loss needs. If the band is too tight, it can be loosened by taking out some of the fluid. If the band is too loose, your doctor can tighten it by injecting saline into the access port under your skin. This unique feature promotes a method of gradual weight loss that allows you the minimal malnutrition risk.

If you're a woman who plans to become pregnant in the near future, lap-banding may be the best choice for you. Unlike gastric bypass surgery, this procedure is fully reversible. Women who have had gastric banding surgery can have their stomach outlet size opened to accommodate the increased nutritional needs of pregnancy.

This surgery can help morbidly obese patients achieve significant weight loss by limiting how much they can eat, slowing digestion and reducing their appetite. However, gastric banding surgery is not a magic prescription for weight loss. If you are considering this procedure, you must be willing to make the changes in your lifestyle that will allow you to reach a healthy body weight.

Disadvantages of Lap-Band over other Obesity Surgeries:

  ·    Slower initial weight loss than gastric bypass.
  ·    Regular follow-up critical for optimal results.
  ·    Requires an implanted medical device.
  ·    In some cases, effectiveness can be reduced due to band slippage.
  ·    In some cases, the access port may leak and require minor surgery to correct.