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Surgery Can Help You Lose Weight
Surgery Can Help You Lose Weight > Q: I'm interested in getting adjustable gastric banding surgery for my weight loss. How is it different than regular weight loss surgery?
Q: I'm interested in getting adjustable gastric banding surgery for my weight loss. How is it different than regular weight loss surgery?
Ask Our Expert about adjustable gastric banding surgery for Weight Loss
Q:
I'm interested in getting adjustable gastric banding surgery for my weight loss. How is it different than regular weight loss surgery?
A: Adjustable gastric banding (also known as LAP-BAND® or Realize™) is a more personalized approach to weight loss, and has fewer risks and side effects than traditional gastric bypass surgery. It is considered the least invasive surgery because it requires no cutting, stapling or re-routing of the stomach.
Q: What is it and how does it work?
A: Adjustable gastric banding surgery is performed through small incisions, also known as minimally invasive surgery. A silicone band is fastened around the upper part of your stomach. The band is filled with salt water and can be adjusted like a belt so you feel full faster. The band is then connected to a port just under your skin. This allows your surgeon to adjust the band anytime after your surgery until it is a perfect fit for you.
Q: Why would it need to be adjusted?
A: Adjustments are a normal part of having the surgery. The goal is for you not to feel hungry between meals. Every person is different. If you find you are getting hungry between meals, your surgeon can adjust the band to limit the amount of food you can eat.
Q: How does it help me lose weight?
A: As you know, feeling hungry is one big reason why it's hard to diet. When your band is properly adjusted, you won't feel hungry all the time. You'll feel full faster and stay full longer, so you'll eat less and lose weight in a natural way.
Q: How much weight can I expect to lose?
A: If you follow the recommended diet and exercise programs, you can expect a gradual, steady weight loss - about one to two pounds per week over the first year. If you continue with your new eating and exercise habits, you can expect to continue to lose more weight.
The key to your success is a lifetime commitment to a healthy lifestyle. You will need to learn new eating habits and commit to regular exercise. But you don't have to go it alone. The Weight Management Center at Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network will provide education before and after surgery and support your need to create healthy new habits to go with your new body.
Q: Will surgery help my medical conditions?
A: Weight loss can improve, prevent and lower your risk for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, joint problems, sleep apnea, acid reflux and heart disease, and has also been shown to help infertility.
Q:
Is adjustable gastric banding new?
A: It is not new. More than 300,000 people worldwide have already had the surgery. But until recently, it was not available in the Lehigh Valley.
Q:
How is banding different from gastric bypass surgery?
A: The most obvious difference is that the band can be adjusted after surgery. It's a more personalized approach to weight loss surgery. Because it is a minimally invasive surgery, the scars are small compared to gastric bypass surgery. Patients usually have less pain, shorter hospital stays and a shorter recovery period. There is a lower risk of the nutritional deficiencies associated with gastric bypass, and less risk of hair loss.
Q:
Is banding surgery covered by insurance?
A: Yes, most insurance plans cover this surgery if you are medically qualified. Of course, you should always check with your insurance company first.
Q:
Is banding a good choice for me?
A: Only a weight loss surgeon can say for sure. You might be a candidate if you have not been able to lose weight with diet, exercise or diet drugs and:
- You have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher
- You have a BMI of 35 or higher and have a health risk associated with obesity, such as diabetes or heart disease
- You are at least 100 pounds over your ideal weight
If you don't know your BMI, calculate it here.
This page last updated 10/15/08 05:40 PM
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