Considering Lap Band Surgery

If you are considering weight loss surgery, Lap Band surgery may be an option for you. There are many reputable Lap Band clinics in Toronto, but before you make an appointment, make sure to do your research. Below are a few things to consider if you are thinking about undergoing Lap Band surgery for weight loss.

Cost

Lap Band surgery in Toronto and other parts of Canada can be very costly. You'll have to research the different Lap Band clinics to find out specific information related to cost. In many cases, medical insurance will not cover the cost of bariatric surgery. Consider whether you're willing to finance your own surgery through loans or credit cards should it be necessary.

Eligibility

Many different factors are considered by doctors in determining whether you are eligible for Lap Band surgery or not. In order to qualify for surgery, you must be between the ages of 18 and 55, and at least 100 pounds overweight. Alternatively, you may have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of between 35 and 40+ or (or a BMI of 35 with significant co'morbidity). You must be in reasonably good health and you must report any current or past medical problems. Patients with severe and permanent medical conditions are considered ineligible for bariatric surgery.
In order to determine if you are a candidate for Lap Band surgery several exams are required prior to scheduling surgery. Required tests include: EKG, Upper G.I. Series, Gallbladder Ultrasound, Chest X'Ray, Blood & Urine Analysis.

Risks

As with any type of major surgery, there are general risks associated with undergoing a major procedure. These risks can be worse for overweight patients.
Most of the common complications associated with lap band surgery will take place after the surgery. Most patients will experience one type of complication or other in the weeks and months following lap band surgery.

Common Complications

- Nausea & Vomiting: 50% of patients
- Regurgitation/Gastro Esophageal reflux: 1/3 of patients
- Slippage of the band: 1/4 of patients
- Blockage in the passage between the two sections of the stomach: 1 in 7 pages
- Difficulty in swallowing (dysphasia), constipation and diarrhea

More Serious Complications

- Erosion of the band into the stomach
- Twisting or leakage of the access port

Rare Complications

- Inflammation of the stomach (gastritis) – less than 1%
- Migration of the stomach above the diaphragm (hiatal hernia)
- Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
- Dehydration
- Abdominal pain
- Gas/flatulence
- Chest pain
- Infection

Commitment

Though the surgery can technically be reversed by removing the Lap Band, you must remember that Lap Band surgery is considered a life'long commitment that is intended to help keep the weight off. With that being said, living with the lap band will require a total lifestyle change. Some of the changes you can expect include the following:

- You'll have to learn new eating habits. While you are learning these new eating habits you can expect vomiting to occur.

- For up to three days following surgery, you will only be allowed to consume clear liquids in small amounts.

- Solid foods will be allowed only after clear liquids and soft foods are kept down.

- Progression to solid foods is slow and varies from one patient to another. Initially, one starts with 8 teaspoons of food, which must be eaten slowly. You must stop eating as soon as you start to feel full or you may vomit.

Average Weight Loss

It is difficult to estimate how much weight you will lose monthly or annually following Lap Band surgery, especially since results vary for everyone depending on your age, height, metabolism, level of activity, etcetera. However, patients who follow the new eating patterns carefully and exercise daily can hope to lose more than 30 kilos (or 65 pounds) in the first year.

Conclusion

If after considering all these factors you still think Lap Band surgery may be for you, the next step is to talk to a doctor about your situation. Research Lap Band clinics in Toronto and make an appointment to discuss surgery with a specialist.