Frequently Asked Questions
Initial Questions
How does Lap-Band surgery differ from gastric by-pass surgery?
The Lap-Band does not require stomach cutting and stapling or rerouting of the gastrointestinal system. The Lap-Band also has a lower risk of complications and is reversible.
Who qualifies for Lap-Band surgery?
To qualify for Lap-Band surgery, our patients must have a BMI of 40 or a BMI of 35 with a weight-related health condition, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes or sleep apnea. We treat patients between the ages of 18 and 65.
How long will it be until I can have the Lap-Band surgery?
After we see you for your initial consultation, there are a few additional steps required to prepare you for surgery, including appointments with our team nutritionists and team psychologist, as well as a sleep lab study and blood work. This process usually takes a couple of months and then you should be ready for surgery. Our office staff will assist you in coordinating this process and scheduling your surgery.
Does insurance pay for the Lap-Band procedure?
Most Massachusetts insurers cover the Lap-Band procedure. Our office accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield, Harvard Pilgrim, Tufts and Commonwealth Idemnity insurance. Patients are responsible for whatever co-pays are required by their insurance.
How long does the Lap-Band procedure take?
Most Lap-Band surgeries take less than an hour.
How long will I be in the hospital?
Our patients typically leave the hospital the morning after their Lap-Band surgery and are in the hospital for less than 24 hours.
When can I go back to work?
We recommend that our patients plan to take off two weeks from work, particularly if their jobs require manual labor. Some patients return to work sooner but we recommend that patients plan for two weeks.
Can I drive after surgery?
Yes, most patients are comfortable driving just a day or two after Lap-Band surgery.
Can I eat normally after I have the Lap-Band?
Patients are on a low calorie liquid diet ten days prior to gastric band surgery and then a high protein liquid diet for two weeks after after surgery. After that patients can resume eating most foods they normally eat. In order for the band to work properly it is important for patients to eat their food in small bites and chew each bite thoroughly. Lap-Band patients typically should avoid fibrous foods such as asparagus, pineapple and celery. Some patients have difficulty eating certain types of meat, especially if it is not chewed thoroughly. The Lap-Band is also most effective when people do not drink with their meals, and refrain from drinking high calorie liquids, such as milk shakes.
Can the Lap-Band be removed?
Yes, the Lap-Band can be removed. However, the goal is that patients will keep their Lap-Bands for life as a long term weight loss tool.
How much weight will I lose and how quickly?
While weight loss varies from patient to patient, most patients lose 1-2 pounds per week in the first year.
Do you have support groups for your Lap-Band patients?
Yes, we have regular support groups for our patients. A schedule is available on our website and our patients are encouraged to attend if they find a support group helpful.
Post-Operative Questions
I have a question?
If it is not answered below-CALL!
I have a concern?
CALL! All concerns warrant a phone call.
I think my band might be too tight. I might be in the Red Zone?
CALL! All Red Zone symptoms and questions of being too tight warrant a phone call.
When can I shower?
As soon as you get home.
What do I do with the bandages/dressings?
Leave them on till they fall off. When they do fall off you may leave the incisions open to air or recover with a Band-Aid if you are more comfortable.
When can I exercise?
No vigorous activity for two weeks. You may walk and go up and down stairs. You may resume exercise after your first postoperative visit.
When can I have sex?
As soon as you feel comfortable.
When can I drive?
As soon as you feel ready as long as you know how to, have a license, and are no longer taking prescription pain medicines.
What can I do about constipation?
Try a glass of prune juice OR a Tablespoon of Mineral Oil twice a day OR a Tablespoon of Milk of Magnesia twice a day. DO NOT do all three or you will have a new problem.
What can I do about gas?
The "gas" from surgery resolves in 48-72 hours. The "gassiness" that ALL LapBand patients experience at one time or an other is totally normal and an inevitable consequence of the band and separating liquids and solids when you eat. Using Gas-X and products with Simethicone is often helpful.
When do I get my first fill?
When you need it and never before 6 weeks post-op. At your 4 week visit we get you started on solid food. At your 6 week visit and every subsequent visit we assess your progress. You get a fill if you are not feeling full and/or losing weight.
How much weight will I lose?
People who make "good" food choices, separate liquids and solids, and come for frequent follow-up typically lose 1-2 lbs per week and 50-100 lbs in their first postoperative year.
When do I come for follow-up?
Every 2 weeks for the first 10 weeks and then monthly thereafter for the first year as well as ANYTIME you think you need to be seen. Follow-up is critically important to successful weight loss. The more you see of us, the less we'll see of you! (Credit to our dear friend and patient SM for that wisdom)
What about Barium Swallows?
Everyone gets a Barium Swallow at 1 year post-op to check the position of the band and health of the Esophagus. Patients also get them any time there is a question of a slip or band dysfunction.)
Can I take my usual medications and over the counter medications?
Yes you may. Anything with a diameter equal to or smaller than an M&M will slide through the band.
Tell me about Support Group?
It is fantastic! We meet twice a month from 7-8 pm. The schedule is on the website. I always learn something new and I think the people who go really benefit. Give it a try.
