The Pros and Cons of LapBand Surgery

The Pros and Cons of LapBand Surgery

If you are between the ages of 18 and 60 and around 100 pounds overweight, you may be the ideal candidate for LapBand surgery.  The LapBand is a successful weight loss surgery that has been used in the United States since 2001.  Most patients who undergo the procedure see results.  With that said, all surgical procedures have their pros and cons.

So, what are the pros and cons of undergoing LapBand surgery?

Weight loss.  Weight loss is the most significant advantage to undergoing the procedure.  For many patients, the LapBand system is not only used to improve their physical appearance, but their health.  In many instances, the LapBand surgery is considered a lifesaving procedure.  Weight loss will depend on surgeon preference, band size, healthy eating choices, and exercise.

Improvement in health.  As previously stated, many patients who undergo the LapBand surgery are doing so to save their lives.  With severe cases of obesity, the early onset of death is likely.  When properly inserted, the LapBand should lead to a longer and healthier life.  If that wasn’t enough, the weight loss associated with LapBand surgery can lead to the disappearance of diabetes and other weight related health problems.

Freedom.  In a way, most LapBand patients are provided with a certain level of freedom; freedom they never had before.  By following all doctor recommendations, weight loss is all but guaranteed.  Whether you lose 50 pounds or 100 pounds over the course of time, you will have more freedom to live your life.  It will likely be the simplest things, such as walking up a flight of stairs without losing your breath, that will leave you with the most joy.

Short recovery.  The LapBand system involves the insertion of an adjustable gastric band.  There is no cutting or stapling of the stomach pouch.  This means a shorter recovery time.  In fact, most patients spend less than 24 hours in the hospital.  Not only is the recovery shorter, but there are less risks of complications.  The LapBand surgery is safer than gastric bypass surgery.

Adjustable.  The greatest benefit of the LapBand system is that the band is adjustable.  Not all bodies react to surgery or the LapBand the same way.  For that reason, adjustments are common.  Even better is the fact that adjustments can be made without surgery.  Adjustments are made with band slippage, regurgitation, acid reflux, and no weight loss.

Reversible.  Since stomach pouch cutting and stapling is not involved with the LapBand system, the procedure is 100% reversible.  Unlike adjustments, surgery is required for band removal.  When removed, your stomach will return to its normal size.  Reasons for removal include time where the band is no longer needed to assist in weight loss or complications in which adjustments do not assist.

Eligibility requirements.  Unfortunately, the LapBand system tends to come with many eligibility requirements.  Qualified surgeons will not operate on just anyone.  Even if you are overweight, you may not qualify for the LapBand surgery.  In most cases, patients need to have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of around 40, be between the ages of 16 and 60, be in good health, and have a clear understanding of the commitment required to lose weight.

Costs.  Very few medical procedures are affordable, but you may be shocked with the cost of LapBand surgery.  On average, the procedure costs $15,000 to $20,000 in the United States.  If you are covered by medical insurance, contact your provider.  Some insurance providers cover the cost of bariatric surgery.  If not, save money by cutting expenses, look for an affordable surgeon, and inquire about payment plans.

As you can see, the LapBand system has many pros and cons.  In most cases, the pros easily outweigh the cons.  So, if you are suffering from severe or morbid obesity, schedule a consultation appointment with a LapBand surgeon.  If you are deemed an eligible candidate, a healthier lifestyle is just a few months away.