Life With Lap-Band®
Lifelong support with Lap-Band®
From our thriving social community, educational resources, to our ReShapeCare® program, there are so many ways to find support throughout your Lap-Band journey!
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Explore our Lap-Band® Guides
Get the tips you need to make the most of the Lap-Band® program at each stage of your journey.
Find an adjustment specialist
The Lap-Band® was designed to evolve with you as your needs change. An adjustment specialist can help ensure a personalized fit over time.
Find an adjustment specialist near youCommon questions
Find answers to your questions about living with the Lap-Band®
How is the Lap-Band adjusted?
The Lap-Band® system is adjusted by inserting a fine needle through a small access port located under the skin and injecting or removing saline solution, which tightens or loosens the Gastric Band. The Lap-Band should typically be adjusted an average of 5-6 times in the first year for the best long-term weight-loss results. Adjustments to the Lap-Band are made through a discreet and carefully placed access port that helps improve recovery and ensures comfortable adjustments. When your needs change, or you have a major life event like pregnancy, the Lap-Band adjusts to you. Take the first step and sign up for a free consult https://www.lapband.com/request-a-consult/ or start your journey at https://www.lapband.com/start-your-journey/.
Will I feel sick a lot after the operation?
If you feel nauseated or sick on a regular basis, it may mean you need to chew your food more thoroughly or follow your new diet more strictly. However, feeling sick could indicate a problem with the adjustment (ReShape Lap-Band could possibly be too tight) of the band – so contact your doctor if you feel sick regularly. In either case, chew your food slowly and as thoroughly as you can to help prevent vomiting or regurgitation – which can cause the small stomach pouch to stretch or lead to slippage. These scenarios could reduce the success of the operation or require an adjustment (to remove some of its fluid content). In some instances, another operation may be required.
What does recovery look like?
Recovery time will vary by patient. Because the Lap-Band® procedure is done laparoscopically, the recovery is much shorter than with traditional weight loss surgery. The procedure itself takes about an hour, and most patients can return home quickly. Your surgeon will be able to discuss all of this with you at your initial consultation. For more information on how to prepare for the Lap-Band procedure, please visit us at https://www.lapband.com/why-lb/.
I need a fill but have moved/am no longer with a surgeon
It is extremely important to stay in communication with a Lap-Band® surgeon. If you need assistance locating a new one in your area, please visit us at http://bit.ly/LapBandSurgeon and we would be happy to help you!
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Important Lap-Band® System Safety Information
The Lap-Band System is indicated for weight reduction for patients with obesity, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 40 kg/m2 or a BMI of at least 30 kg/m2 with one or more obesity-related comorbid conditions. It is indicated for use only in adult patients who have failed more conservative weight reduction alternatives, such as supervised diet, exercise and behavior modification programs. Patients who elect to have this surgery must make the commitment to accept significant changes in their eating habits for the rest of their lives.
The Lap-Band System is not recommended for non-adult patients (patients under 18 years of age), patients with conditions that may make them poor surgical candidates or increase the risk of poor results, who are unwilling or unable to comply with the required dietary restrictions, or who currently are or may be pregnant.
The Lap-Band System is a long-term implant. Explant and replacement surgery may be required. Patients who become pregnant or severely ill, or who require more extensive nutrition may require deflation of their bands. Anti-inflammatory agents, such as aspirin, should be used with caution and may contribute to an increased risk of band erosion.
Placement of the Lap-Band System is major surgery and, as with any surgery, death can occur. Possible complications include the risks associated with the medications and methods used during surgery, the risks associated with any surgical procedure, and the patient’s ability to tolerate a foreign object implanted in the body. Most common related adverse events include: Band slippage, pouch dilation, stoma obstruction, gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal dilation, cholelithiasis, incisional infection, abdominal pain, gastroenteritis, or nausea and vomiting may occur. Reoperation may be required. Rapid weight loss may result in complications that may require additional surgery. Deflation of the band may alleviate excessively rapid weight loss or esophageal dilation.
Important: For full safety information please click here or talk with your doctor.