If you are between the ages of 18 and 60 and around 100 pounds overweight, you may be the ideal candidate for LapBand surgery. The LapBand is a successful weight loss surgery that has been used in the United States since 2001. Most patients who undergo the procedure see results. With that said, all surgical procedures have their pros and cons.

So, what are the pros and cons of undergoing LapBand surgery?

Weight loss. Weight loss is the most significant advantage to undergoing the procedure. For many patients, the LapBand system is not only used to improve their physical appearance, but their health. In many instances, the LapBand surgery is considered a lifesaving procedure. Weight loss will depend on surgeon preference, band size, healthy eating choices, and exercise.

Improvement in health. As previously stated, many patients who undergo the LapBand surgery are doing so to save their lives. With severe cases of obesity, the early onset of death is likely. When properly inserted, the LapBand should lead to a longer and healthier life. If that wasnt enough, the weight loss associated with LapBand surgery can lead to the disappearance of diabetes and other weight related health problems.

Freedom. In a way, most LapBand patients are provided with a certain level of freedom; freedom they never had before. By following all doctor recommendations, weight loss is all but guaranteed. Whether you lose 50 pounds or 100 pounds over the course of time, you will have more freedom to live your life. It will likely be the simplest things, such as walking up a flight of stairs without losing your breath, that will leave you with the most joy.

Short recovery. The LapBand system involves the insertion of an adjustable gastric band. There is no cutting or stapling of the stomach pouch. This means a shorter recovery time. In fact, most patients spend less than 24 hours in the hospital. Not only is the recovery shorter, but there are less risks of complications. The LapBand surgery is safer than gastric bypass surgery.

Adjustable. The greatest benefit of the LapBand system is that the band is adjustable. Not all bodies react to surgery or the LapBand the same way. For that reason, adjustments are common. Even better is the fact that adjustments can be made without surgery. Adjustments are made with band slippage, regurgitation, acid reflux, and no weight loss.

Reversible. Since stomach pouch cutting and stapling is not involved with the LapBand system, the procedure is 100% reversible. Unlike adjustments, surgery is required for band removal. When removed, your stomach will return to its normal size. Reasons for removal include time where the band is no longer needed to assist in weight loss or complications in which adjustments do not assist.

Eligibility requirements. Unfortunately, the LapBand system tends to come with many eligibility requirements. Qualified surgeons will not operate on just anyone. Even if you are overweight, you may not qualify for the LapBand surgery. In most cases, patients need to have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of around 40, be between the ages of 16 and 60, be in good health, and have a clear understanding of the commitment required to lose weight.

Costs. Very few medical procedures are affordable, but you may be shocked with the cost of LapBand surgery. On average, the procedure costs $15,000 to $20,000 in the United States. If you are covered by medical insurance, contact your provider. Some insurance providers cover the cost of bariatric surgery. If not, save money by cutting expenses, look for an affordable surgeon, and inquire about payment plans.

As you can see, the LapBand system has many pros and cons. In most cases, the pros easily outweigh the cons. So, if you are suffering from severe or morbid obesity, schedule a consultation appointment with a LapBand surgeon. If you are deemed an eligible candidate, a healthier lifestyle is just a few months away.

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Are you severely obese? If so, you may be an ideal candidate for LapBand surgery. A consultation with a qualified surgeon is recommended. Before scheduling that appointment, take the time to compare your options. To get started, compare the LapBand surgery with diet and exercise. Which weight loss approach is best for you?

Unfortunately, the LapBand system is costly. In some instances, select insurance providers will cover all or a portion of the costs. If not, the surgery averages between $15,000 and $20,000 in the United States. Even if you do not have this money, it is still possible to pay for the LapBand surgery. Many patients opt for personal loads, credit card payments, payment plans, or the traditional method of saving first.

As for the cost of exercise, it can be free. Unfortunately, this is something that many do not realize. Yes, you can pay $25 or more a month for a gym membership, but it isnt required. In fact, you dont even need a treadmill. Those who are obese are urged to start with walking. You can do this outside or in a local shopping mall free of charge. After time, you can upgrade to more strenuous exercises. If you dont have the money for a treadmill or gym membership, invest $10 in a set of weights or an exercise video.

Unlike dieting, exercising isnt free, but it can be affordable. Your two most expensive options are organic foods and diet foods. Instead, just watch your eating. By opting for a small cup of grapes, as opposed to two Little Debbie cake snacks, you will lose weight by reducing calorie intake.

In terms of results, LapBand produces the quickest results. After undergoing surgery, weight loss will happen over time. With that said, patients tend to experience a significant weight loss in the first month. This is due to the all-liquid diet. Weight gain is common when solid foods are reintroduced, but long-term weight loss is still possible with healthy food choices.

Diet and exercise work, but the weight loss will take longer. The initial weight loss with diet and exercise is water. If you have never exercised before, you will start to notice a change in as little as week. You may be surprised what a daily walk can do for your health and weight. By cutting foods that are high in fats and calories, weight loss will occur. Remember, you will lose weight, but the process will take longer, when compared to the LapBand.

The LapBand has increased in popularity in the United States. It was first approved for use in 2001. Due to its success rate and low risk of complications, it is one of the fastest growing procedures. Although there is a lower risk of complications, when compared to other weight loss surgeries, there is always risk involved. These risks can include complications, such as band slippage, stomach erosion, regurgitation, and death. In most cases, if you are at a high risk for complication, medical professionals advise against the LapBand.

In terms of safety and complications, diet and exercise are more natural weight loss methods. As for diet, as long as you consume healthy foods that you are not allergic to, no complications or side effects will be experienced. In term of exercise, those suffering from severe forms of obesity should develop an exercise plan with a medical professional, such as a primary care physician or trainer. This should reduce the risk of exercise related injuries.

The LapBand system isnt right for everyone. Most doctors have strict criteria that must be met before surgery is decided on. For example, most surgeons operate on those between the ages of 18 and 60, those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) rating of 40 or more, and those with a clear understanding of the necessary diet restrictions. For that reasons, not everyone is an ideal candidate. This means that just because you want to undergo the LapBand surgery, it does not mean that you can.

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If you are interested in undergoing the LapBand surgery, you will need to find a LapBand surgeon. To get started, speak with your primary healthcare professional for a referral or turn to your local phone book or the internet. With that said, you need to do more than just find a LapBand surgeon; you need to choose the best one. For that reason, ask many questions.

So, what questions should you ask your LapBand surgeon?

Am I an ideal candidate? This is the most important question to ask. If you did not receive a direct referral from your primary care physician, do not have your heart set on weight loss surgery. The ideal candidate for surgery is 100 pounds or more overweight, between the ages of 18 and 60, and has the commitment to restrict their diet.

How much does the LapBand surgery cost? On average, the LapBand procedure costs between $15,000 and $20,000. That is quite the average price range. This means that you can find varying rates. Of course, you want to choose a quality surgeon who is Board Certified and who is known to produce results, but why pay more than you have to. In addition to asking about the cost, price compare with other local surgeons.

Do you have a payment plan? Some insurance providers do cover the cost of weight loss surgery, but there are typically many rules and restrictions. If you are uninsured or if coverage is not extended, ask about a payment plan. In this case, it is recommended that you have a good credit rating. If not, at least have enough for a substantial down payment.

Will you perform the LapBand procedure? If you are receiving a consultation at a hospital or large surgical center, you could be speaking to anyone. This is not what you want. You want to have a consultation appointment with the surgeon who will perform your LapBand surgery.

Are you Board Certified? In the United States, a Board Certified Surgeon is recommended. When opting for a certified surgeon, you are given a certain level of peace, comfort, and guarantee. You know the person has undergone strict testing and is qualified to perform the procedure.

How many surgeries have you performed? Not only do you want a Board Certified Surgeon, but you also want one who has experience performing the LapBand procedure. Surgical experience is recommended, but the LapBand is different than other surgeries. So, make sure your surgeon has experience with the LapBand system. Not only is installation experience recommended, but adjustment too.

What is your success ratio? When it comes to success ratio, it is important to ask about complications and weight loss. Your goal of undergoing the LapBand procedure is to lose weight, ensure those before you have done so. Next, examine your risks. How many patient complications or deaths has your surgeon experienced under their care?

Can I see before and after pictures? Before and after pictures will not only give you insight into your weight loss potential, but it may give you comfort and peace of mind. A LapBand surgeon who has before and after pictures of their patients is one who is invested in their long-term success. These are hands you want to place your life in.

Can you speak to past patients? Hearing that a LapBand surgeon has a good rate of no complications and successful weight loss is nice, but best when coming directly from the source. Ask to speak with or meet previous patients. When doing so, ask questions. Did they like the surgeon? Were they pleased with their treatment before, during, and after surgery? Would they extend a recommendation?

The above mentioned questions are just a few of the many you will want to ask during a LapBand consultation appointment, but they are a good start. In the days leading up to your appointment, record any additional questions you think of.

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