Category: Weight Loss

If you’re a smoker and you’re considering bariatric surgery, there are a few things you should know first.

Most smokers already know a slew of reasons why they should quit smoking. However, if you are hoping to get bariatric surgery, it’s one more reason to consider quitting smoking. The bad habit can lead to a slew of diseases and it will have an impact on quality of living, especially the longer you smoke. You may have problems with poor blood supply, high blood pressure, blood clots that can lead to strokes, heart problems, lung problems, and a slew of different cancers, such as lung cancer, throat cancer, mouth cancer, and pancreatic cancer.

Depending on the type of bariatric surgery you opt for, there will be fewer blood vessels going to the stomach. Smoking already causes issues with narrowing blood vessels, and because of this, the blood vessels carry less oxygen. This means that continuing to smoke after bariatric surgery can be extremely dangerous. The risk for ulcers, gastritis, and strictures increase. Less oxygen will reach your surgical wound, meaning it may heal more slowly and is more at-risk of becoming infected. There is also an association between tobacco use and respiratory problems following bariatric surgery. Recovery will be more difficult if you’re a smoker. One study showed that smokers, as compared to their nonsmoking counterparts, were 1.5 times more likely to develop surgery-related problems within one month of surgery.

Doctors recommend that you stop smoking cigarettes and using any tobacco products approximately six to eight weeks before your surgery, if not even sooner. The sooner you quit, the more you lower your risk of problems after surgery. Every smoker that decides to pursue weight-loss surgery will be counseled on the risks of smoking before and after surgery, as well as the health benefits of quitting.

Smoking is considered a surgical risk factor for bariatric surgery, so if weight-loss surgery is in your future, it’s time to make a change.

Sources:

• http://owensborohealthse3.adam.com/content.aspx?productId=67&pid=67&gid=000042
• http://bariatrictimes.com/tobacco-use-in-bariatrc-patients/

@2026 Medtimo Inc        All Rights Reserved                 Part Number 04-0509 Rev. A

Do you want to learn to love going for bike rides again, or taking a stroll after dinner? Do you want to have the energy to play with your kids in the yard all afternoon, or finally take that yoga class your best friend has been talking about? You may feel like your size is holding you back, and after many failed diets or weight reduction plans, you’re considering your options. If bariatric surgery, like the non-anatomy altering Lap-Band® Procedure, has crossed your mind, you must first understand why it could be right for you. There are certain requirements you must meet before moving forward with the Lap-Band System.

Obesity

In order to qualify for the Lap-Band Procedure, you must have a specific Body Mass Index (BMI) that puts you in the obese or extremely obese category. BMI, which is a simple calculation that uses a person’s height and weight, should be at least 40kg/m2. If you have one or more comorbid obesity-related conditions, you may qualify for the Lap-Band Procedure if you have a BMI of at least 30 kg/m2.

Comorbid diseases

If you have any obesity-related comorbid diseases or conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, you may qualify for the Lap-Band Procedure. Weight loss can often reverse or improve the symptoms of these diseases.

Multiple failed weight-loss attempts

If you have tried and failed multiple consecutive diets or weight reduction alternatives, you may qualify for the Lap-Band Procedure. Diets or weight reduction methods include supervised diets, strict exercise regimens, or behavior modification programs.

Patients who elect to undergo the Lap-Band Procedure must make the commitment to making major lifestyle changes, including significant changes to their diet. If you want to learn more about Lap-Band and if it’s right for you, speak to a specialist by calling 1-800-LAPBAND.

@2026 Medtimo Inc        All Rights Reserved                 Part Number 04-0522 Rev. A

Getting ready to have your Lap-Band® Procedure done? Your specialist has talked to you about what to expect, and the changes you’ll need to implement, but it’s always great to have a refresher.

Before surgery

Before your surgery, you’ll have initial meetings with your specialist and other experts. You’ll talk in detail about the procedure, and they’ll help you understand what happens before and after the operation. Some of the other experts you may meet with could include a dietitian and a psychologist.

After these initial meetings, you’ll have a presurgical meeting with a specialist and anesthetist. You’ll discuss your entire medical history, from your past and current illnesses, to illnesses and injuries, to allergies to medications. During this time, it is crucial that you disclose all your health conditions. You should also ask all the questions you have at this time.

Getting ready for surgery

There are a slew of tests that you’ll need to have completed before your surgery that are designed to ensure you are healthy enough for surgery. Tests include chest X-rays, a blood pressure test, and blood tests.

At this point, you can begin collecting the items you’ll need for the day of your surgery and the days following. That includes loose-fitting clothes, a small pillow to guard your injection site from the seatbelt on your car ride home, a list of your medications and at least a two days’ supply of each, and insurance information. At home, make sure you have broth, ice chips, skim milk, and sugar-free popsicles and fruit juice.

The day prior

The day before your surgery, you’ll have a more specific set of instructions from your specialist. For instance, you may be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking anything the night prior.

At the hospital

You may go to the hospital or surgery center the night prior to your surgery or the morning of your surgery. The important thing is that you arrive well in advance of your procedure. Be sure to bring someone with you that can stay with you and safely bring you home.

You’ll receive general anesthesia for the surgery, which will take around two to three hours (though the procedure itself takes less than an hour). Typically, the procedure is completed laparoscopically, but sometimes the specialist may need to change to an open procedure. If this happens, you’ll need to spend more time in the hospital, and there will be more recovery time. This doesn’t happen often, but your doctor will talk to you about this.

After the surgery

You may feel some pain around the cuts upon waking from the anesthesia. It’s usually described as a dull ache that can be relieved with normal painkillers and fades within a couple days. The staff will get you moving to prevent any issues like blood clots or bedsores. Typically, you will leave the hospital within one day. Your health team may check to make sure your band is in the correct place and that the stomach outlet is open using a fluoroscope.

Once you’re home, you’ll start your weight-loss journey with the prescribed plan from your surgeon or dietitian.

Source:

• LAP-BAND System: Surgical Aid in the Treatment of Obesity: A Decision Guide for Adults

@2026 Medtimo Inc        All Rights Reserved                 Part Number 04-0508 Rev. A

Did you know that, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research, after not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight is the best thing you can do to lower your risk of getting cancer? Being overweight or obese increases the risk for at least 12 cancers, including mouth, liver, kidney, stomach, colorectal, prostate, esophageal, breast, pancreatic, ovarian, and endometrial. Approximately 7 in 10 Americans are overweight or obese. The scary thing is, only about 52% of Americans are aware of the link between obesity and cancer.

Studies showing the link between obesity and cancer come from cohort studies, which are a type of observational study. The results from an observational study can be difficult, because there are other ways in which overweight and obese individuals could differ from individuals at a healthy weight. The study doesn’t determine that, which is why only a link can be established, and not causality. However, consistent results show that higher body fat is linked to an increased risk of a slew of different cancers. Risks for obese individuals are usually twice as high for endometrial, esophageal, liver, and kidney cancer versus normal-weight people. The risks for those who are extremely obese are higher.

There are several reasons that obesity may increase the risk for certain cancers. Some believe it has to do with chronic low-level inflammation, which is common among obese individuals. Over time, this can lead to DNA damage, which leads to cancer. High levels of estrogen are linked to increased risk of some cancers, like breast cancer, and fat tissue produces excess estrogen. Fat cells also produce adipokines, which are hormones that can stimulate or inhibit cell growth.

Obese people can also have increased insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1, which may increase the risk of certain cancers.

It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, complete with a balanced diet and exercise, to lower your risk of these cancers. Fewer studies have looked into the association between weight loss and cancer risks. However, studies completed on obese individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery reveal that their risk for obesity-related cancers is lower than their counterparts who did not have bariatric surgery.

Sources:

• https://www.aicr.org/learn-more-about-cancer/infographics/infographic-obesity-and-cancer.html
• https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/obesity/obesity-fact-sheet

@2026 Medtimo Inc        All Rights Reserved                  Part Number 04-0459 Rev. A

By now, you’ve probably completed some research on several bariatric weight-loss procedures. Of course, you’ve probably run across a few myths about Lap-Band®. It’s time to set the record straight and find out the truth.

Myth #1: The band doesn’t work

When compared to Gastric Bypass surgery, there’s the common misconception that the Lap-Band doesn’t work as well. Weight loss may be more gradual with the band than with Gastric Bypass, but it is still effective and much safer. Recent improvements in the surgical technique and aftercare have improved results. Some studies even show that the Lap-Band is more successful than Gastric Bypass after five years.

Myth #2: Weight loss isn’t long-term

Studies of participants up to 20 years after surgery show that weight loss is both substantial and long-term. This is a substantial difference between a medical weight-loss program, which doesn’t show durable results beyond 2 years.

Myth #3: Reoperations are needed

In a study, reoperations were common in all types of bariatric surgery. With improved band and surgical techniques, band reoperation has become far less common. A new technique means that there is less post-operative pain and easier band adjustments. Outcomes are far better.

Myth #4: Removal rates are high

In a December 2018 Dixon study, removal rates were only 8.74% (95% CI; 6.6% – 10.9%). The improved Lap-Band and surgical techniques have greatly reduced removal rates.

Myth #5: The port will set off metal detectors

Airport detectors vary, but typically, the port under the skin that administers the saline solution to the band is not likely to set off airport metal detectors during the first walk-through. If a patient is also wearing other metal, the combination may set it off. The port will be picked up more often than not when a secondary screening with a wand is completed. The port or band is also not an issue during an MRI test.

Myth #7: The band is filled with air

The band is adjusted using a sterile saline solution.

If you have any further questions about the Lap-Band Procedure, call 1-800-LAPBAND and talk to a specialist.

Sources:

• “Long-Term Outcomes After Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Weight Loss at 10 or More Years for All Bariatric Procedures and a Single-Centre Review of 20-Year Outcomes After Adjustable Gastric Banding” by Paul E. O’Brien, Annemarie Hindle, Leah Brennan, Stewart Skinner, Paul Burton, et al.
• http://bariatrictimes.com/myth-myth-yes-top-10-myths-about-laparoscopic-gastric-bands/
• Dixon JB, Eaton LL, Currry T, et. al. “Health Outcomes and Explant Rates After Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding: A Phase 4, Multicenter Study Over 5 Years.” Obesity (2018) 26, 45-52.

@2026 Medtimo Inc        All Rights Reserved                  Part Number 04-0463 Rev. A

There are many misconceptions about the Lap-Band® System. One myth is that no one is undergoing the Lap-Band Procedure any longer. Statistics and success stories show that this simply isn’t true.

The Lap-Band is an effective system for many people. It doesn’t involve ineffective tactics like diet pills or fad diets, and patients don’t have to undergo invasive surgery. The Lap-Band Procedure is performed laparoscopically, so there is minimal time spent in the hospital recovering. The procedure is also non-anatomy altering and reversible, contrary to most other bariatric surgeries. The Lap-Band is also adjustable, making it an effective option for many people looking to meet their weight-loss goals. The procedure allows for people to get back to their lives quickly and start their weight-loss journey.

There is a perception that patients aren’t requesting the Lap-Band Procedure. While the Lap-Band appears to have lost popularity, it is most likely due to reduced advertising and increased promotions for alternative procedures or fad diets. Other myths have also been spread about the Lap-Band saying that it is ineffective or that bands have high erosion rates—neither of which is true. Surgeons have continued to train on the procedure throughout the years, improving both the band and the aftercare process for patients. Surgeons are continuously modifying their aftercare protocol, increasing the frequency of patient follow-up. As best practice learned experiences have come about from other successful band programs, adjustment techniques have also been refined, allowing for patients to consume smaller volumes more often.

After receiving the Lap-Band Procedure, countless patients have reported tremendous results. The Lap-Band has allowed them to completely transform their lives, finding happiness and no longer facing the daily issues caused by excess weight. Individual patients’ experiences and results may differ, but if you are considering weight-loss surgery, it is worth talking to a specialist.

Source:

• Haskins, Owen, ed. Dispelling LAP-BAND Myths (2019). Bariatric News. (42), 19.

@2026 Medtimo Inc        All Rights Reserved                 Part Number 04-0523 Rev. A

Have you ever been told that you should chew your food a specific number of times before swallowing, and you should set your utensil down after every bite as you chew carefully? Well, it turns out there could be some truth to it. In fact, it is very helpful not only for individuals trying to lose weight and be more mindful while they eat, but individuals who have had the LAP-BAND® Procedure.

The LAP-BAND works best when you are not in a hurry as you eat. You should take your time and chew very well. Take a small forkful, put it down, and chew thoroughly. Only pick your fork back up after you’ve finished chewing and swallowing. Your food needs to be mush in order to easily pass through the band. If you don’t chew well, you may feel a little sick.

Chewing slowly will help you feel full. The LAP-BAND sends the signal to your brain that you are full, so if you are eating too quickly, your band and brain don’t have enough time to process. You may eat too much and feel overly full once you are done. That is why you need to give your band a minute for it to process. You may even feel the food move through the band. The key is to pay attention to your food and your band to know when you’ve eaten enough to feel satisfied. Not only does eating slowly help with eating less, but you also enjoy your food more.

Some studies show that individuals who eat quickly may weigh more than individuals who eat slowly. They may also be prone to gaining weight over time. It may have something to do with hormones. Ghrelin makes you feel hungry, while leptin makes you feel satisfied. As you eat, hormones will be released to help you feel full and stop eating. The release of these hormones can take upwards of twenty minutes, which is why you need to slow down and give your brain time to receive these signals. If you eat slowly, there is often an increase in fullness hormones.

Eating slowly, in addition to helping you eat less and feel full, can lead to improved digestion and nutrient absorption.

Sources:

• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/eating-slowly-and-weight-loss#tips
• https://www.www.lapband.com/resources/?wvideo=oubjcggv3s

@2026 Medtimo Inc        All Rights Reserved     Part Number – 04-0539 Rev. A

There are a number of myths out in the world that make claims about the Lap-Band® Procedure. One of those misconceptions is that the Lap-Band System does not work. In fact, though every patient experience is different, there are countless examples of the Lap-Band being a successful long-term weight-loss tool.

The perception of some people is that the Lap-Band provides poor long-term weight loss, weight loss is not durable, and there are better options out there such as the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy or the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. The evidence shows that one size does not fit all when it comes to bariatric surgery. Many patients don’t want the risks that are associated with other bariatric surgeries that involve cutting the stomach or rerouting the intestines. They want a customizable and reversible option that has the lowest risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies (i.e., the Lap-Band). Lap-Band has the lowest rate of early postoperative complications and mortality among approved bariatric procedures. Calling it a less effective option is simply not true; everyone is different and one person’s lifestyle may not be suited to one procedure over the other.

Multiple studies completed through the years note the long-term effectiveness of the Lap-Band ranging from two years after the procedure to twenty years after the procedure. After two years, 70% of patients maintained extreme weight loss; after five years, 60%; after fifteen years, 47%; and after twenty years, 49%. Numerous studies also show that comorbid issues, such as diabetes, heart disease, sleep problems, and asthma either improved or resolved after having the Lap-Band Procedure.

In comparison to other bariatric procedures, the Lap-Band holds up. There is a 73% increased risk of nonvertebral fracture after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery compared to gastric banding. When compared to sleeve gastrectomy results, the Lap-Band shows higher rates of maintained weight loss. It’s also the safest operation in terms of complication rate and severity. Balloons and endoscopic procedures have temporary results and lower weight loss.

To talk to a LAP-BAND Specialist in your area, call 1-800-LAPBAND.

Sources:

• ASMBS. Bariatric Surgery Procedures. https://asmbs.org/patients/bariatric-surgery-procedures#band
• Elaine, W.Y., Kim, S.C., Sturgeon, D.J., Lindeman, K.G. and Weissman, J.S., 2019. Fracture Risk After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass vs Adjustable Gastric Banding Among Medicare Beneficiaries. JAMA Surgery.
• Golomb, Inbal & Ben David, Matan & Glass, Adi & Kolitz, Tamara & Keidar, Andrei. (2015). Long-term Metabolic Effects of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy. JAMA surgery. 150. 10.1001/jamasurg.2015.2202.
• Lauti, M., Kularatna, M., Hill, A.G. et al. (2016) Weight Regain Following Sleeve Gastrectomy—a Systematic Review OBES SURG (2016) 26: 1326.
• Manish S. Parikh, Scott Laker, Matt Weiner, Omid Hajiseyedjavadi, Christine J. Ren, Objective Comparison of Complications Resulting from Laparoscopic Bariatric Procedures, Journal of the American College of Surgeons, Volume 202, Issue 2, 2006, Pages 252-261

• Michaelson, et. al. Obesity (2013) 21:1148-1158
• Ray et. al. “Safety, Efficacy, and Durability of Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding in a Single Surgeon U.S. Community Practice.” Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases 7 (2011) 140-144
• O’Brien, Annemarie Hindle, Leah Brennan, Stewart Skinner, Paul Burton, et al. “Long-Term Outcomes After Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Weight Loss at 10 or More Years for All Bariatric Procedures and a Single-Centre Review of 20-Year Outcomes After Adjustable Gastric Banding.” Obesity Surgery. The Journal of Metabolic Surgery and Allied Care. Published online: 06 October 2018. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11695-018-3525-0
• Dixon et. al. “Marked Improvement in Asthma after Lap-Band Surgery for Morbid Obesity.” Obesity Surgery, 9, 385-389
• Dixon et.al. “Health Outcomes of Severely Obese Type 2 Diabetic Subjects 1 Year After Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding.” Diabetes Care 25:358-363, 2002
• Dixon et. al. “Sleep Disturbance and Obesity. Changes Following Surgically Induced Weight Loss.” Arch Intern Med 2001:161:102-106
• Dixon et. al. “Gastroesophageal Reflux in Obesity: The Effect of Lap-Band Placement.” Obesity Surgery, 9, 527-531

@2026 Medtimo Inc        All Rights Reserved                 Part Number 04-0506 Rev. A

The holidays can be an incredibly difficult time for individuals trying to follow a healthy lifestyle. Temptations are in every direction—cookies, special holiday drinks like peppermint mochas and eggnog, side dishes like mashed potatoes and gravy and stuffing, and boxes of candy brought to the office by colleagues and clients. Slipping up might feel inevitable. Not only may you struggle to follow your eating plan, there’s a good chance you might be struggling to get enough exercise in. It is especially important to eat well after the Lap-Band® Procedure.

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but it is especially crucial with the Lap-Band. Not only should you stick with water because it is free of calories and sugar, unlike holiday drinks, but it will help you digest your food effectively. It will also help you maintain feelings of fullness. Be sure you drink a glass of water before you begin any holiday meal. It may turn out that you aren’t as hungry as you anticipated, but were simply thirsty.

Plan meals accordingly

If you know you’re going to be at a party or meal with lots of fattening and calorie-laden foods, come prepared with your own healthy options. Arm yourself with healthy, on-plan foods that you can feel good about enjoying while still enjoying yourself. If you do decide to eat the prepared meal, remember to fill up on vegetables first. Skip the vegetables coated in butter and sauce, and opt for steamed or fresh vegetables. If you’re cooking the meal, show your family how good healthy recipes can be by preparing meals with minimal butter, cream, and fattening sauces. And remember, if you’re waiting for the meal to start, don’t stand by the food table; you’ll be prone to snack. Pop a stick of sugar-free gum if need be.

Be mindful

Be mindful when you are eating. Chew slowly and mindfully. Enjoy each bite. Not only will the experience be more enjoyable, but you will be able to pay attention to hunger cues more easily. If you eat too quickly, it is easy to overeat because your stomach doesn’t recognize how full you are. It also helps if you aren’t starving when you start the meal.

Be mindful when you are in grocery stores as well. There are special holiday foods around every corner. Before you pick up those goodies, think about how the foods will make you feel. Is it nutritional? Will you feel good after you eat it? Don’t go to the store hungry, either. You’ll be more prone to impulse buy.

Grab your walking shoes

Bring your walking shoes with to the holiday party. Suggest a walk before or after the meal. Going for a slow walk after dinner is a great way to promote digestion.

The holidays aren’t all about the food. They’re about enjoying festive cheer with family and friends; put the focus on that and you’ll be good to go.