Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers that may help you in your pre-surgery preparation. Other pre-surgical patients just like you have asked us a wide variety of questions and we've tried to answer the most common ones, here. If you have a question that is not answered here, please consult with your surgeon.

What are the benefits of the LAP-BAND® System versus other types of weight loss surgery?

Click here for a comparison of surgical options

How long is the average recovery period?
The average hospital stay is less than 24 hours. Typically, it'll be about a week before you can go back to work, and about a month to six weeks before you can start exercising again. In the case of open surgery, or if there are complications, recovery may take longer.

How many LAP-BAND® System adjustments are suggested?
Don't be in a hurry to have multiple band adjustments - this is a long-term weight loss management program. Your adjustments depend on your individual case and considerations such as how fast and well you are healing post-surgery. Many patients have between five and eight adjustments within the first year after surgery, while others may have only a few. Click here for more information on adjustments. However, adjustments are customized to meet your individual needs. Don't be in a hurry to have an adjustment, as one of the major benefits of the LAP-BAND® System is a steady, healthy and safe weight loss.

What fluid is used to fill or adjust the LAP-BAND® System?
Sterile saline (salt water similar to tears) is used to fill or adjust the LAP-BAND® System. Saline is used commonly in medical applications as a filler, hydration and cleansing solution.

Will I need to take vitamin supplements?
You may. It's possible to not get enough vitamins from three small meals a day. At your regular check-ups, your specialist will evaluate whether you are getting enough vitamin B12, folic acid, and iron. Your surgeon may advise you to take supplements.

Why are diet and exercise important after having the LAP-BAND® System procedure?
Remember that weight-loss surgery is not a quick fix. Surgery is a powerful tool that can help you lose weight, but your motivation and commitment to a new lifestyle are the real keys to your success. If you don't follow the post-surgery nutrition and exercise guidelines, your weight loss success may be greatly reduced. In addition to the new nutrition plan, regular exercise helps you lose even more weight, and most importantly, it will also help improve your overall health and wellness. Click here for more information on lifestyle changes.

Can the LAP-BAND® System be removed?
Although the LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding System is not meant to be removed, it can be, in some cases laparoscopically. Surgeons report that the stomach generally returns to its original shape once the LAP-BAND® System is removed. After the removal, though, you may gain more weight.

Is the gastric sleeve procedure reversible?
No, the gastric sleeve procedure is permanent and involves removal of part of your stomach.

What are the risks and complications associated with LAP-BAND® System surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with weight loss surgery. These include the standard risks of any surgery, such as infection. Other risks include, but are not limited to, nausea and vomiting, band slippage (LAP-BAND®), band erosion (LAP-BAND®), and access port problems (LAP-BAND®.)

To obtain detailed risk information, please talk to your doctor or visit our Risk Information page.

Does the LAP-BAND® System require frequent visits to the surgeon after surgery?
Check-ups with your surgeon are extremely important and highly recommended before and after the procedure for long-term success. During the first year after surgery, patients typically visit their surgeons every four to six weeks, although that will vary from patient to patient. LAP-BAND® System adjustments can be made during these visits.

Will I need plastic surgery for the surplus skin after I have lost weight?
This is not always the case. As a rule, plastic surgery will not be considered for at least a year or two after the operation since the skin will sometimes mold itself around the new body tissue. Give your skin the time it needs to adjust before you decide to have more surgery.

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