With so many different alternatives to weight loss, people look for the best possible option to fit their needs. The lap band surgical weight loss system may work well for some patients, but not all. Deciding if this treatment is best for you is the first step. The lap band system requires patients to commit to an overall lifestyle change before and after surgery, which includes changing your eating patterns and exercising more frequently. But first, there are many complications, risks, and harmful effects that you should consider prior to surgery.
Is This Option Best for Me?
The lap band weight loss system may not be the best option for individuals who are experiencing some of the following: heart or lung disease, ulcers, Crohn's disease, an autoimmune connective tissue disease, scleroderma, bleeding in the stomach or esophagus, hypertension, cirrhosis, chronic pancreatitis, or are frequent users of alcohol or drugs. It is also not recommended for people who cannot endure pain from an implanted device, cannot follow nutritional guidelines that comply with the lap band procedure, are allergic to materials in the lap band, pregnant, and under 18 years of age.
General Risks
The lap band system has general risks that are involved with the surgical procedure. These risks may increase for those who are extremely overweight. Some of the risks are as followed: death (it can occur during the operation, afterwards, or as a result of the operation), and a gastric perforation (a tear in the stomach wall). Patients can also regain the weight they've lost, and experience side effects from medications involved in the procedure. Age increases risks associated with surgery, and risks can arise from a foreign object being planted inside of your stomach.
Complications
Most individuals experience complications after surgery which may include: vomiting, nausea, constipation, dehydration, heart burn, diarrhea, anemia, abdominal pain, hernia, fever, chest pains, abnormal stools, spleen injury, ulceration, gastritis (irritated stomach tissue), twisting of the stomach pouch, stomach pouch enlargements, discomfort from a lap band that's too tight, discomfort from the improper placement of the band and regurgitation. Sometimes bands can erode in the patient's stomach causing extreme distress.
