Vital Facts About Lap Band Surgery Nj

By Kristen Baird


The lap band is a surgical technique which is normally done in full anesthesia and normally takes a maximum of 2 hours to finish. It gets done using a laparoscopic technique. This technique involves making of 3 to 5 incisions with a length of 1 inch. The doctor inserts a camera which is attached to some tube into any of the incisions. This views the entire procedure on a screen. When considering lap band surgery nj residents have several facts to consider.

The incisions that remain are used for placement of the band, plus they allow for comfortable use of instruments used for the surgery. The band is normally placed at the upper part of the stomach then set into position using sutures. What follows is placement of a port in the abdominal wall which is then sutured into position. Preparation for surgery depends on the surgeon and the program that is chosen.

Before the surgery, the doctor will want to see commitment from a patient as concerns lifestyle changes. The patient will be advised to eat between 5 to 6 small meals daily as preparation for changes ahead. Such high calorie foodstuffs as ice cream and milk shakes should not be taken. In case the BMI exceeds 50 or for those that suffer from other medical issues, there may be need for reduction of medical risk before the procedure.

The time taken to recover depends on the individual. For quicker recovery however, the lap band surgery is better than gastric bypass procedures. In general however, most people will get back to work a week after surgery. This would not be the case for jobs that are physically demanding. After the sixth week, one may resume normal activity. People whose jobs are very demanding physically will have to wait longer before resuming.

The various risks and side effects of the procedure will need to be considered. Most surgeons will take patients through such risks before a decision can be made. Side effects will be more pronounced in people with poor health. People suffering from diabetes, asthma or such ailments are in this category. Death is a possibility though it happens very rarely.

Three percent of patients have suffered from gall stones after surgery. Some have also reported internal bleeding and strictures. Other possible side effects include pulmonary embolism, excessive weight loss, infections and gastrointestinal leaks. The occurrence of the risks and their severity varies in different people.

There are chances that one will not lose adequate weight as was anticipated. This could be as a result of poor choice of diet or lack of proper exercise. Patients are advised to stick to the post-operative diet plan for the best outcomes. Most side effects can be prevented if the advice of the physician is followed.

Most people will experience vomiting and nausea after surgery. Dietary issues are the biggest causes of these. If one experiences vomiting, the doctor should know immediately. It may be a sign of bigger underlying issues.




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