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The importance of weight-loss support

June 3, 2022

One of the least-discussed keys to weight loss is support. Lap-Band® patients find support from a variety of sources, but none are more important than that which they receive from their team. Before discussing how the Lap-Band Program uniquely offers support, you should first know what comprises weight-loss support and what makes it so important for long-term results. 

What is weight-loss support?

Those who are committed to losing weight find support in many places. Some people might find it from a partner or family members, using their encouragement to support lifestyle changes. Others can find weight-loss support groups. These groups are a collection of individuals who share similar goals and struggles. A weight-loss support group can provide support in the form of encouragement and accountability. 

Finally, the Lap-Band Program provides patients with support from a staff of medical professionals. Lap-Band professionals offer support in the ways previously mentioned but can also provide expert knowledge on aspects of weight loss like nutrition and exercise. 

Why weight-loss support is critical

Now that you know what a weight-loss support group is, you should also know what makes these support systems so crucial for long-term weight loss. Weight-loss support can provide some much-needed tools that promote weight loss. 

  • Emotional Support – Weight loss can come with ups and downs. This process, like anything in life, can present unique struggles. When these struggles occur, it always helps to have someone close who can provide comfort and reassurance. 
  • Accountability – You may not receive emotional support and accountability from the same source, but both are equally important. That’s why those trying to lose weight should make sure they have a system of accountability. Weight-loss support can keep you accountable and help you adhere to goals even when you feel like abandoning them.
  • Expert Guidance – Weight-loss support groups can provide some expert advice, but the Lap-Band Program excels at it. Lap-Band patients can glean many benefits from their team’s knowledge about the science and methods for effective weight loss. Some of this knowledge may translate to diet changes, moderate exercise routines, and mental health referrals. 

Support with the Lap-Band

With the Lap-Band you can receive comprehensive support from a variety of experts. Surgeons, and their teams, have provided support for over one million patients. To find out more about the Lap-Band program, and what you can expect, register for our free online seminar

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Important Lap-Band® System Safety Information

The ReShape Lap-Band Systems are approved for adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of at least 30 with health conditions related to obesity, who have not seen success with other weight loss methods, like supervised diet, exercise, and behavior modification programs. Choosing this surgery means committing to changes in eating habits for the long term.

The Lap-Band procedure is not approved for individuals under 18 yo, those with conditions that may make them poor surgical candidates or lead to poor results, such as inflammatory or cardiopulmonary diseases, problems with the stomach and digestion, symptoms or family history of autoimmune disease, scarring of the liver, individuals unable or unwilling to follow the necessary dietary restrictions, individuals with alcohol or drug addictions, or those currently pregnant. Individuals who become pregnant after band placement may require deflation of their bands.

The ReShape Lap-Band Systems, a long-term tool, may need to be adjusted if you get pregnant, sick, or malnourished. Be careful with anti-inflammatory drugs as they could make the band wear away. Like any surgery, placement of the Lap-Band may have complications such as risks from drugs and methods used, general surgery risks, how well your body handles a foreign object, or in rare cases, risk of death.

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with metabolic and bariatric surgery that you and your doctor should discuss. Potential risks associated with the Lap-Band include nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach blockage, constipation, swallowing difficulty, diarrhea, abnormal stools, abdominal pain, weakness, incision pain, infection, fever, hernia, chest pain, band movement, stomach pouch expansion, unusual healing, pain at the port site, port movement, and/or hair loss. Additional surgery might be needed. Losing weight quickly could lead to complications requiring more surgery. 

Talk to your doctor, and/or visit our website at www.lapband.com/safety/ for more information on its benefits and risks.

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