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Surgery is the first step on the road to successful and sustained
weight loss. However, you must adopt a lifelong program that
will help you meet your goals. This multi-faceted program
will include routine check-ups with your surgeon, ongoing
band adjustments if necessary, and regular attendance at support
group meetings. Work closely with your surgeon and weight
management team, follow their advice and communicate openly
with them. Learn to use the LAP-BAND® System as a tool to help
you lose your excess weight.
 ADJUSTING
TO A NEW LIFE
LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding System adjustments are performed without surgery using a
thin needle to inject or withdraw saline from the band via
the access port. Being able to adjust the band is a unique
feature of the LAP-BAND® System and is a normal part of the
follow-up. This feature lets your surgeon find the right level
of restriction to meet your individual needs.
Click on the image to the right to see an
animation
of how the band is adjustable>>
Following the LAP-BAND® System placement procedure, the band
is usually left empty or only partially inflated for a while.
Adjustments are not usually performed until 4 to 6 weeks after
surgery, although the exact time will vary from patient to
patient. You and your surgeon will decide when the time is
right for your first band adjustment. To determine this, your
surgeon will consider:
- Your weight loss so far
- The amount of food you can comfortable eat
- Your exercise routine, and
- The amount of fluid already in your band
The LAP-BAND® System offers you a way to obtain steady and
safe weight loss. Don't be in a hurry to have an adjustment
before you are ready.
MOTIVATION IS THE KEY
To work, the band needs your participation. Your success will
depend on you and the partnership between you and your medical
team. Your surgeon will not perform the operation unless he
or she is sure that you understand the problems your excess
weight is causing. Your surgeon will also make sure you understand
your responsibilities, including adopting and maintaining
a new eating pattern and a new lifestyle.
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