Lap Band after gastric sleeve surgery is a procedure that is gaining popularity among individuals who have previously undergone gastric sleeve surgery but have not achieved their desired weight loss goals. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Lap Band after gastric sleeve surgery, including what it is, why it is chosen, how it is performed, the benefits and risks associated with the procedure, the recovery period, expected weight loss results, and how to prepare for the surgery.
Key Takeaways
- Lap Band is a surgical procedure that involves placing an adjustable band around the stomach to restrict food intake.
- Lap Band after gastric sleeve surgery is an option for patients who have not achieved their desired weight loss or have experienced weight regain.
- The Lap Band procedure involves placing a silicone band around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch that limits the amount of food that can be consumed.
- Benefits of Lap Band after gastric sleeve surgery include sustained weight loss, improved health outcomes, and increased quality of life.
- Good candidates for Lap Band after gastric sleeve surgery are those who have a BMI over 35, have not achieved their desired weight loss with gastric sleeve surgery alone, and are committed to making lifestyle changes.
What is a Lap Band After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Lap Band surgery, also known as adjustable gastric banding, is a type of weight loss surgery that involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach to create a smaller pouch. This restricts the amount of food that can be consumed at one time and helps individuals feel fuller faster.
Lap Band surgery is different from gastric sleeve surgery in that gastric sleeve surgery involves removing a large portion of the stomach to create a smaller, banana-shaped stomach pouch. This reduces the size of the stomach and limits the amount of food that can be consumed.
Why Choose Lap Band After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
There are several reasons why individuals may choose to undergo Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery. One advantage of Lap Band surgery is that it is a reversible procedure, unlike gastric sleeve surgery which permanently alters the size and shape of the stomach. This means that if an individual is not satisfied with their weight loss results or experiences complications, the Lap Band can be removed.
Another advantage of Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery is that it allows for further weight loss in individuals who have not achieved their desired goals with gastric sleeve surgery alone. The adjustable nature of the Lap Band allows for adjustments to be made to the band over time, allowing for continued weight loss.
How is Lap Band After Gastric Sleeve Surgery Performed?
The process of Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery involves several steps. First, the surgeon will make small incisions in the abdomen and insert a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera attached, to visualize the surgical site. The surgeon will then place the Lap Band around the upper part of the stomach and secure it in place with sutures.
There are several types of Lap Bands that can be used in this procedure, including the Lap-Band AP, Lap-Band AP-L, and Lap-Band AP-S. These bands differ in their design and adjustability, allowing for customization based on the individual’s needs.
What are the Benefits of Lap Band After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery offers several benefits to individuals who have not achieved their desired weight loss goals. One of the main benefits is weight loss. The Lap Band restricts the amount of food that can be consumed at one time, leading to reduced calorie intake and subsequent weight loss.
In addition to weight loss, Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery can also lead to improved health outcomes. Excess weight can contribute to a variety of health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. By achieving weight loss through Lap Band surgery, individuals may experience improvements in these conditions and overall better health.
Psychological benefits are another advantage of Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery. Excess weight can take a toll on an individual’s self-esteem and body image. By achieving weight loss through Lap Band surgery, individuals may experience improved self-confidence and a positive body image.
Who is a Good Candidate for Lap Band After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Not everyone who has undergone gastric sleeve surgery is a good candidate for Lap Band surgery. There are certain criteria that must be met in order to be considered for the procedure.
Firstly, individuals must have previously undergone gastric sleeve surgery and not achieved their desired weight loss goals. They must also be committed to making the necessary lifestyle changes, including following a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity, to support their weight loss efforts.
There are also certain pre-existing medical conditions that may affect an individual’s candidacy for Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery. These conditions include severe heart or lung disease, bleeding disorders, and certain psychiatric conditions. It is important for individuals to discuss their medical history with their surgeon to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
What are the Risks and Complications of Lap Band After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications associated with Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery. These can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
There is also a risk of complications specific to the Lap Band itself, such as band slippage or erosion, which may require additional surgery to correct. It is important for individuals to discuss these risks with their surgeon and weigh them against the potential benefits before deciding to undergo the procedure.
To minimize the risks associated with Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery, it is important for individuals to carefully follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by their surgeon. This may include taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and making necessary lifestyle changes.
How Long is the Recovery Period for Lap Band After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
The recovery period for Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery can vary depending on the individual and the specific details of their procedure. In general, individuals can expect to spend one to two nights in the hospital following surgery.
During the recovery period, individuals will be advised to follow a liquid diet for a period of time before gradually transitioning to solid foods. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage any discomfort experienced during the recovery period.
It is important for individuals to follow all post-operative care instructions provided by their surgeon, including attending follow-up appointments and making necessary lifestyle changes to support their weight loss efforts.
How Much Weight Can You Expect to Lose with Lap Band After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
The amount of weight that can be expected to be lost with Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery can vary depending on the individual and their commitment to making the necessary lifestyle changes. On average, individuals can expect to lose 50-60% of their excess weight within the first year following surgery.
It is important to note that weight loss results can vary and are influenced by factors such as age, gender, pre-existing medical conditions, and adherence to post-operative care instructions. It is important for individuals to have realistic expectations and to focus on overall health improvements rather than solely on the number on the scale.
How to Prepare for Lap Band After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
In order to prepare for Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery, individuals will be provided with pre-operative instructions by their surgeon. These instructions may include dietary restrictions, cessation of certain medications, and pre-operative testing.
It is also important for individuals to make necessary lifestyle changes before surgery. This may include adopting a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity to support weight loss efforts. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption may also be recommended.
What to Expect During and After Lap Band After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
During Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery, individuals will be placed under general anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. The surgeon will make small incisions in the abdomen and use a laparoscope to visualize the surgical site. The Lap Band will then be placed around the upper part of the stomach and secured in place with sutures.
After surgery, individuals can expect some pain and discomfort at the incision sites. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage this discomfort. It is important for individuals to follow all post-operative care instructions provided by their surgeon, including attending follow-up appointments and making necessary lifestyle changes to support their weight loss efforts.
Lap Band after gastric sleeve surgery is a procedure that can offer individuals who have not achieved their desired weight loss goals with gastric sleeve surgery alone an opportunity for further weight loss. The adjustable nature of the Lap Band allows for continued weight loss over time, and the procedure offers several benefits including improved health outcomes and psychological well-being.
It is important for individuals to carefully consider the risks and potential complications associated with Lap Band surgery after gastric sleeve surgery before deciding to undergo the procedure. It is also important to follow all pre-operative and post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon to minimize these risks and support successful weight loss efforts.
Overall, Lap Band after gastric sleeve surgery can be a valuable tool in helping individuals achieve their weight loss goals and improve their overall health and well-being.
FAQs
What is a Lap Band?
A Lap Band is a type of weight loss surgery that involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch, which limits the amount of food that can be eaten at one time.
What is a Gastric Sleeve?
A Gastric Sleeve is a weight loss surgery that involves removing a large portion of the stomach to create a smaller, banana-shaped stomach. This limits the amount of food that can be eaten at one time and reduces feelings of hunger.
Can you have a Lap Band after Gastric Sleeve surgery?
Yes, it is possible to have a Lap Band placed after Gastric Sleeve surgery. This is known as a revision surgery and is typically done if the patient has not achieved their desired weight loss or has experienced complications from the Gastric Sleeve.
What are the benefits of having a Lap Band after Gastric Sleeve surgery?
The benefits of having a Lap Band after Gastric Sleeve surgery include further weight loss, improved weight loss maintenance, and reduced risk of complications such as acid reflux and vomiting.
What are the risks of having a Lap Band after Gastric Sleeve surgery?
The risks of having a Lap Band after Gastric Sleeve surgery include complications from the surgery such as bleeding, infection, and anesthesia risks. Additionally, there is a risk of the Lap Band slipping or eroding, which may require additional surgery.
How long does it take to recover from Lap Band surgery after Gastric Sleeve?
Recovery time from Lap Band surgery after Gastric Sleeve varies depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. Generally, patients can expect to be in the hospital for 1-2 days and may need to take 1-2 weeks off from work to recover. Full recovery can take several weeks to several months.
