Recovery
As a general rule, most patients are able to return to their homes the day after the lap band procedure. Although there is some discomfort associated with the recovery, the majority of patients are able to return to work and their normal activities within a week. The discomfort and recovery time may be lengthened, however, if the surgeon is not able to perform the procedure laparoscopically (which occurs in about one out of every 20 cases). This does not mean that the surgeon is unable to place the gastric band, but rather that the surgeon is required to make larger incisions into the abdomen to perform the procedure, causing a more lengthy recovery time.
Side Effects
There are some side effects from lap-band surgery. Some patients experience pain, nausea or vomiting after the surgery, especially if they eat too fast. It is important to be careful about what you eat after this procedure, because the lap band drastically reduces the amount of food that the stomach can handle. Eating too much or too fast can cause discomfort, which is why it is important, especially early in the recovery process, to follow your doctor's and nutritionist's recommendations for your diet, particularly regarding solid foods. As your body adjusts, these side effects should diminish or disappear.
Complications
Although laparoscopic surgery is designed to minimize the risks of complications, there is the chance that the recovery will be atypical. Patients may develop an infection at the surgical site, which can be painful and is a serious condition. Patients may also have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. Sometimes the band also leaks or slips, which can cause abdominal pain and discomfort. There is also a chance that the integrity of the stomach or intestines will become compromised, causing food or stomach acid to leak into the abdomen, which is a painful and serious (though rare) complication.
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