Aftercare & Side Effects of Lap Band Surgery

Lap band surgery is one of many weight-loss surgery options available today. It is minimally invasive, which makes it an appealing option; however, it is not without side effects, and it has its own set of aftercare instructions.

Surgery Side Effects

• There is more to life after your surgery than just weight loss. There are potential side effects and complications, including:
  -Standard surgery risks, such as infection, slow healing and bleeding
  -Slippage of the band, which may cause heartburn or vomiting
  -The band may erode into the stomach. (This occurs very rarely.)
  -Spontaneous band deflation
  -Enlargement of the stomach pouch
  -Blockage of the stoma (stomach outlet)

Sugery Aftercare

• Correct aftercare is vital following lap band surgery. The patient must:
  -Follow a nutrition plan as prescribed by the surgeon and nutritionist, including vitamin supplements and soft foods
  -Adhere to a specific exercise program
  -Seek behavioral modification therapy to ensure that a complete life change is made
  -Maintain attendance to frequent office follow-up visits designed to adjust the band and check on the patient's overall health

Surgery Complications

• Occasionally there are complications with lap band surgery. Call your surgeon right away if you experience any of the following:
  -A fever of 101 degrees or greater
  -Sudden shortness of breath
  -Swelling or pain in either or both of your legs
  -Nausea or vomiting, or severe pain in your stomach
  -Pain, swelling or leakage from any of your incision sites