If you are obese, then you are at an increased risk for developing a broad range of health problems, which include cardiac problems, diabetes, and stroke. The medical definition of obesity is when an individual has a body mass index (BMI) that is more than 30. Although an obese individual may try to lose weight through exercise and a healthy diet, it may not be enough to lose all the weight needed to be considered healthy.
Surgical procedures to treat obesity are on the rise, which is due to the high success rates. A popular surgical treatment for obesity is known as gastric banding, which is also known as lap band surgery. A lap band surgery in Mexico is an ideal option if you want to shed unwanted pounds.
What is Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding?
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) uses a laparascope, which is a tiny camera, to place an adjustable band on the upper part of the stomach. The band used for this procedure is made of silicone, which can be clenched by using saline. The band is joined to a port, which is put under the skin of the abdomen. The purpose of the port is to fill or take out saline from the band.
LAGB will reduce the size of the stomach. Therefore, it reduces the amount of food that the stomach can hold. LAGB also enables the intestines to digest food slower. This will make an individual fuller without having to consume as much food.
What is a Lap Band?
A LAP BAND® is a device that is manufactured by Allergan Inc. There are a variety of different sizes and models of the LAP BAND®, which can be suitable for individuals who are moderately obese to severely obese.
Who are Ideal Candidates for Lap Band Surgery?
In most cases, ideal candidates for lap band surgery will have a body mass index greater than 30. Many surgeons will also prefer that an individual attempted to lose weight though traditional methods first, such as exercise and diet, but was unsuccessful. The procedure should only be performed on individuals who are over the age of 18. Before the surgery, individuals should understand what the surgery entails, and they should be ready to make lifestyle changes.
If an individual is emotionally unstable, has problems understanding the surgery, or has a problem with drugs or alcohol, then he or she will not be an ideal candidate for lap band surgery. Furthermore, those who have a history of gastrointestinal issues, which includes ulcers, will need to be examined carefully to see if the procedure is a suitable treatment. Individuals who have heart or lung problems may not be cleared by a doctor to have the procedure.
How is Lap Band Surgery Performed?
When an individual has lap band surgery, he or she will undergo general anesthesia. The duration of the procedure is one to two hours. The surgery is performed using a laparoscopic method. A surgeon will make three to five tiny incisions, which are around one inch long. A surgeon will insert a tiny camera that is connected to a tube, which allows the surgeon to view the process on a screen. The additional incisions are made for the use of other surgical instruments and to put the band in place. The lap band is then placed around the top part of stomach and set with sutures, and then the port is put in the wall of the abdomen and sutured.
How to Prepare for the Procedure
Although the procedure will vary based on the patient, most of the time a surgeon will want to see that a patient is committed to the lifestyle change that is needed for the surgery to be successful. It can help if an individual begins to change his or her eating habits, which could be adjusted to five to six small meals per day. It is also advised to stop eating greasy or high calorie foods before the surgery, since these foods will still be absorbed into the body and will hinder optimal weight loss.
What is the Typical Recovery Time After a Lap Band Surgery?
Recovery time after a lap band surgery is based on each patient. In most cases, an individual who received a lap band surgery will have a shorter stay than other gastric bypass surgeries.
Immediately after a lap band surgery, a patient will experience moderate pain, which will be controlled with pain medication. It is normal for individuals to experience some pain after the surgery, which will subside after about one week.
Most patients are able to return to work one week after having the surgery. However, more time off may be needed if an individual has a job that requires a lot of physical activity. For most patients, incorporating an exercise plan can begin after one week. However, the activity should not be too demanding at first. After six weeks of recovery, an individual can begin a normal exercise routine.
After the surgery, an individual is expected to lose two to three pounds per week in the beginning, which will eventually slow to one pound per week. Food choices and exercise play a role in how much weight will be lost after the surgery, so it is important to get plenty of physical activity and eat a well balanced diet. If a healthy diet and exercise program is part of their lifestyle, then individuals can lose 60% of their pre-surgery body weight. The first year after surgery many patients will lose 40% of pre-surgery body weight, which will be followed by an additional 10% to 20% the second year.
If you are considering having the procedure, then a lap band surgery in Mexico is a great option. When you are obese, it can be challenging to lose all the weight you want to on your own. Lap band surgery is an effective and safe way to help you shed excess pounds.
