If you are considering lap band surgery, you should know all of the facts in advance.
This includes facts about possible lap band complications.
When you are well informed, you will be in a better position to decide whether the surgery is right for you.
It is estimated that approximately nine percent of people who undergo lap band surgery experience complications.
Some complications are very serious, while others are not.
Before you decide you want this procedure, it is important for you to know some complications can be life-threatening.
Lap band surgery carries one risk common to all major surgeries. A small percentage of patients can have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia, or to the surgery itself. There is a slight possibility a person may die during surgery.
Lap Band Complications
Gastroesophageal Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), gastric reflux disease, or acid reflux disease is a chronic symptom of mucosal damage caused by stomach acid coming up from the stomach into the esophagus.
A typical symptom is heartburn.
GERD is usually caused by changes in the barrier between the stomach and the esophagus, including abnormal relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, which normally holds the top of the stomach closed; impaired expulsion of gastric reflux from the esophagus, or a hernia.
These changes may be permanent or temporary
Lap Band Surgery Risks
The band may not stay in place after the surgery. You may experience a blockage. These complications can require additional surgery.
There can also be side effects that are less serious. Digestive difficulties, problems with swallowing, flu-like symptoms, and inflammation, are only a few of the common lap band complications that are generally not life-threatening.
Lap bands can result in gall stones, ulcers in the esophagus, rashes, menstrual difficulties, and other non-life threatening problems.
However, while you are thinking about these possibilities, there are two points to consider. First, the risks of lap band surgery are much lower than risks attached to other weight loss surgeries. Second, it is possible to decrease your risks.
One way of decreasing lap band surgery risks is to make sure you are not in one of the categories where this surgery is contraindicated.
Your age and general health are only two factors.
You should discuss surgery with your physician, to be sure it is appropriate for you.
As surgery is not equally appropriate for everyone, you should not insist upon it if your doctor advises against it.
He has your general health and best interests in mind. If necessary, he can recommend a different method for your weight loss goals. No matter how much you want or need to lose weight, it is not worth risking your life.
Lap band surgery risks will increase if you do not take lifestyle requirements seriously. From your post-surgery diet and exercise to avoiding drugs and alcohol, safe recovery means following your doctor’s advice.
Not only will your body need time to heal, you need to prepare for an entirely new way of life. If you are willing to make the commitment and do what it takes, you can have more than your ideal weight. You can look forward to good health for the rest of your life.