Life After Lap Band Surgery

Life after lap banding surgery will require a serious commitment on your part to several lifestyle changes. The lap band is a tool for weight loss, but will only succeed if you follow all the guidelines associated with the lap band system.

Function

• The lap band forms a smaller pouch at the top of your stomach. After surgery, you will need to drastically change your eating habits. Eating much smaller portions of food, foods low in calories and avoiding high-calorie drinks are musts after lap band surgery.

Effects

• After lap band surgery, your stomach can only hold approximately a fourth of a cup or two ounces of food at a time. You must stop eating when your hunger is gone. Overeating can lead to vomiting and lap band slippage.

Basic Rules

• Adjusting to life after the life band will take patience and time. Requirements include eating three small meals a day, no snacking, keeping hydrated with six to eight cups of water daily, chewing food thoroughly and following the nutritional food guidelines.

Time Frame

• Lifestyle changes, including eating habits and exercise, after lap band surgery are an ongoing process for the entire time you have the lap band. Lap band surgery is reversible if you cannot make the necessary adjustments after the surgery.

Significance

• Eating correctly, following exercise recommendations, attending support group meetings and regular follow-up appointments for lap band adjustments with your physician will help ensure an easier transition to life after lap band surgery.