What to Expect Post-Op Gastric Band

A gastric band is a banding system that reduces the amount of food your stomach can hold. Gradually, the gastric band patient will lose weight and be better able to manage and control weight. There are some post-op guidelines that must be followed in order to have success with the surgery.

Biggest Change

• The biggest change a post-op gastric band patient can expect is that the size of their meals will drastically change. Patients must learn to eat small, frequent meals.

Eating Habits

• From choosing the right foods to eat to chewing properly and eating smaller meals, post-op gastric band patients can expect to learn to eat differently.

Coaching

• It is recommended that the patient returns after the operation for coaching sessions. Coaching helps to identify goals and issues in the weight-loss battle.

Fill appointments

• Gastric band patients must attend post-op adjustment (fills) appointments. A nurse will fill or un-fill the band with saline solution via a port attached to the band. This is done to tighten or loosen the band as needed.

Exercise

• Post-op gastric band patients can expect to get physical. Physical activity ensures that your body burns fat and not muscle.