Will I have a Scar from LAP-BAND Surgery?
If you’re considering the LAP-BAND® Procedure, you probably have a long list of questions. There are plenty of stories out there, but you don’t trust any random person, and you know that everyone is different. Well, you’ve come to the right place. Thankfully, we’re here to answer the questions you might not have otherwise read about.
Are you wondering if you will have a scar after the LAP-BAND Procedure? It’s a great question. Scars can cause people a lot of distress. They may feel self-conscious and want to cover their scars up. However, with their large amount of weight loss after the gastric banding procedure, patients may want to show off their new bodies in a bikini at the pool or in a crop top on vacation. However, if they have a huge scar, they might want to cover up. It’s important to know what to expect before you go into the procedure so you can prepare.
Because the LAP-BAND is performed laparoscopically, it is less likely to have a large scar as compared to other bariatric surgeries that aren’t performed laparoscopically and instead use a large incision. In a laparoscopic surgery, several small keyhole cuts are made. A laparoscope—a thin, lighted tool—is inserted to show what’s going on during the procedure. You will be left with a few small scars. In an open surgery, there would be a large eight- to ten-inch incision, and therefore a large scar.
Your scarring will depend upon how badly your skin scars and how well you take care of the small incisions after your surgery. If you closely follow your specialist’s instructions and care for your incisions, you should be left with minimal scars. You will want to keep your incisions clean, dry, and dressed as long as necessary. Once they form a scab, do not pick at them—let them heal naturally. Stay hydrated and well-rested to promote healing. Avoid smoking, direct sunlight, and alcohol. If you notice anything weird about your healing incisions—redness, pus, fluids—talk to your doctor immediately because you may have an infection. If you are especially concerned about scarring, talk to your doctor about creams, ointments, or lotions you can use.
Every case is different. Be sure to talk with your doctor about your questions and concerns about scarring. They will discuss your unique circumstances with you so that you will understand the full process before undergoing the LAP-BAND Procedure.
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 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, talk with your doctor.
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