Gastric Lap-Band Complications

Lap-band surgery is one of the safer forms of gastric surgery. It is a less-invasive technique, requiring only the addition of a removable and adjustable band that limits the amount of room in your stomach. But, as with any surgery, there is always a risk of complications.

Enlarging of Your Stomach

• After lap band surgery the band can slip, allowing your stomach to become enlarged. Stretching above the band also may enlarge your stomach.

Band Erosion

• According to the University of California at San Diego Medical Center, the lap-band can erode into your stomach.

Minor Side Effects

• There are a variety of minor side effects as well. These may include difficulty swallowing, band leakage, dehydration, bloating, nausea, constipation and gas.

Potentially Serious Side Effects

• Acid reflux and GERD, vomiting, ulceration, constriction of your stomach outlet and gastritis are other complications associated with lap-band surgery that may require you to seek additional medical help.

Lack of Weight Loss

• There is the possibility that the procedure won't work for you, or if it does work, it may not work well enough.

Re-Operation

• Anytime you have surgery, you open yourself up for infection and other complications. If your lap-band surgery causes infection or other serious health problems, you may have to have additional surgery to adjust or remove the device.