The Lap-Band surgery is a fully reversible surgery that aids with weight loss by restricting the stomach size without having to cut the stomach. According to Allergan, the surgery is usually done laproscopically and is usually completed within an hour. Patients who have the Lap-Band must follow a diet and exercise regime before and after the surgery.
Hospitalization
Typically, you can expect to spend 24 to 48 hours in the hospital following a Lap-Band surgery. However, this can vary greatly dependent upon your vital signs, how the incision is healing and how much help you will have at home. During this time, you can expect to be monitored closely. Additionally, you will receive materials telling you what to expect during your recovery time.
Diet
For up to three weeks following your surgery, you will be on a liquid diet. It is vitally important that you follow the diet program during this period exactly as directed. Once your stomach can handle soft foods, your doctor or nutritionist will instruct you on how to transition from liquids to soft foods. After you start eating soft foods, you will be able to gradually add healthy solid foods to your diet program. These include fish, chicken, vegetables and fruits, among others.
Activity
After you are released from the hospital, you will have to refrain from strenuous activities for around six months. However, in most cases, you can return to work after a week unless you work in a strenuous environment, such as construction or any job that requires long hours of standing, a lot of physical activity or any job that requires heavy lifting.
Adjustments
After the Lap-Band is inserted, it will have to be adjusted periodically. There isn’t a set time frame or amounts for these adjustments, as these are set according to individual patient needs. According to Allergan, five to eight adjustments are the average during the first year. These adjustments are made by inserting sterile saline into the band through a port that is under your skin.
Complications During Recovery
In some cases, the Lap-Band device may deflate, which causes the saline to spill into the abdomen. You may feel a warm sensation throughout your abdomen if this happens. Also, you have to watch the incision site and port for signs of infection. These include the area being swollen and red, usually with puss or liquid oozing out. You may run fever if these areas become infected. If any of the preceding complications occur, you should contact your surgeon immediately.
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