Lap band weight loss systems work by restricting the size of the stomach pouch. An adjustable band placed around the stomach is filled with liquid to increase or decrease the size of the pouch. Bands are adjusted every four to six weeks in the first year after surgery, so that weight loss of 1 to 2 lbs. per week occurs. The goal of the band is to create a full feeling from less food so that the person eats less. An overfilled band can cause discomfort and, in some cases, more serious complications.
Vomiting
An overfilled band restricts the stomach size and makes it hard for food to pass through the limited opening into the small intestine. Nausea accompanied by vomiting can occur right after the filling when the person drinks water to test the band. If immediate vomiting occurs, the band needs immediate readjustment and will not improve with time, weight loss surgeon Terry Simpson, MD warns on his website, Your Doctor's Orders. A person who can't tolerate meats and vegetables or other solid foods because of an overfilled lap band may fill up on high calorie liquids that go down easily and may actually end up gaining rather than losing weight.
Reflux
If food can't pass the band easily, reflux, or regurgitation back into the esophagus or mouth may occur. Reflux can lead to chronic cough in the night from aspiration of small amounts of refluxed fluid into the lungs and heartburn from acid in the stomach fluid entering the esophagus. Wheezing and interrupted sleep may occur, the Allergan website LAP-BAND Central states. A person may have difficulty swallowing.
Band Slippage
An overfilled band can lead to band slippage, also known as prolapse, the most common long-term problem after lap band surgery. The band slips down the stomach, causing distortion of the stomach pouch in the worst cases. Around 3 percent of patients experience band prolapse, Houston Surgical Specialists report. Complete stomach obstruction or damage to the stomach wall can occur. Treatment involves removing all the saline from the band in an effort to allow the stomach to assume its normal contours. A severe prolapse may require surgical readjustment of the band.
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