The fact that the lap band is adjustable is what makes it unique and very safe compared to other morbid obesity weight loss surgeries, such as a gastric bypass. The lap band placement surgery is so minimal that it can be done in an hour, with the patient having a one-day hospital stay. During surgery, a small access port is placed under the skin in a muscle of the abdominal wall for easy access to inject or remove the saline fluid, otherwise known as “a fill”. After surgery, the patient needs to see their doctor regularly to ensure the band is not too tight or too loose. Adjustments are made over time to make sure the lap band is working effectively.

The adjustable gastric band is an effective tool if you are committed to using it properly. The lap band alone will not resolve obesity; success depends on regular follow-ups and new eating habits. When following the guidelines set out by your doctor, side effects (such as band slippage, port site pain or displacement, and leakage of the reservoir, tubing or band) are minimized. In general, potential complications of lap band surgery are not serious, but as with any surgery, there is risk.

Weight loss surgeries have been performed over many decades now and it has always carried with it the risks involved. Lot of deaths has been reported traditionally of people who have taken these surgeries for weight loss. However, today with the advancement in surgical procedures we have surgeries like Lap Band surgery which greatly reduces the risks involved.

Although, lap band surgery is relatively less risky, it carries with itself the same kind of risks that any other surgery would have for obese people along with many other specific complications. These complications can sometimes be very severe.

Some of the Risks of Lap Band Surgery are:

- Inflammation and infection of the stomach
- Inflammation of pancreas
- Bleeding of the gastro intestinal path
- Chest infection
- Stomach pain and bleeding
- Hernia

The first weeks and months after the surgery are especially days one would need to watch out for these complications. Vomiting, nausea and headache are also common during the recovery time after surgery.

The most important factor while considering any of these surgeries is the skill level of the physician. You have to check with the previous patients he has handled and how good are they maintaining their health and weight. The after care procedure prescribed by the doctor after the lap band surgery should be followed religiously. Usually, you will be put on a liquid diet for a period of few days after surgery. A regular routine of diet and exercises will be introduced over a period of time.

The way weight loss surgery works is by reprogramming the way your digestive system functions. It either ties the stomach with a band so that it reduces your body’s capacity to take food or bypass a portion of the food passage so that a good part of the food’s calories do not get absorbed and get eliminated.

With all the risks and complications involved, it is easy to wonder if surgery for weight loss is actually worth it! ]]> http://www.lapband-info.com/risks-of-gastric-lap-band-surgery-is-it-worth-the-risk/feed/ 0