What You Need to Know About the LapBand
Have you heard that the LapBand system is one of the most successful ways to lose weight? For those severely to morbidly obese, it is. With that said, before you get your heart set on undergoing the procedure, here is what you need to know.
The LapBand system is not like traditional gastric bypass surgery. No cutting or stapling of the stomach pouch is required. Instead, an adjustable gastric band is positioned. Why should this be important to you? It significantly reduces the risk of complications, death, and shortens the recovery time. This is when compared to traditional gastric bypass surgery.
The LapBand system is not right for everyone. Patients suffering from obesity are advised against getting their hopes up. Instead of deciding on LapBand surgery, opt for research first. Make sure you are eligible for the procedure. So, what makes you eligible? LapBand surgeons have their own eligibility requirements, but most opt for those between the ages of 18 and 60, those who are 100 pounds overweight, and those who have the ability to curb diet as needed.
In terms of diet restrictions, a lot is expected from LapBand patients. That is why surgery is not recommended for all. If you have been unable to curb your eating habits in the past, practice before seeking LapBand surgery. An all-liquid diet is needed in one to two weeks following surgery. This is difficult for many, but an important requirement. An improper diet can lead to dangerous complications, including acid reflux, regurgitation, band slippage, pain, discomfort, nausea, and vomiting.
The LapBand surgery is expensive. It is sad that a procedure that can save so many lives is out of reach for most, in terms of finances. On average, the LapBand surgery costs between $15,000 and $20,000. This is a significant cost, but well worth it for many. If you are covered by medical insurance, consult with your provider first. Some providers do extend coverage for the LapBand system. If not, opt for a personal loan, credit card payment, or inquire about monthly payment plans.
In keeping with costs, it is important to focus on foreign surgeries. Yes, the LapBand surgery is cheaper in foreign countries, such as Mexico. On average, the costs are $5,000 or more less. With that said, dont start making your travel plans right away. Speaking of those travel plans, consider the cost. They can increase the cost of LapBand surgery, making it not such a good deal after all.
Many surgeons in the United States are qualified to perform the LapBand procedure. On average, patients do not need to travel far. This not only reduces travel costs, but makes recovery easier, as you are in familiar surroundings. Since you do have options, price compare if costs are a concern. Of course, remember you want a quality, Board Certified Surgeon performing your procedure. That is another benefit of staying in the United States, as medical professionals must adhere to strict laws.
LapBand adjustments are common. When many patients hear their surgeon wants or needs to adjust their band, fear automatically sets in. This should not a concern. Adjustments are common. In fact, most patients need to have their band adjusted once or twice. Luckily, adjustments can be made to the LapBand system without surgery.
The LapBand procedure is not permanent. Unlike other forms of gastric bypass surgery, the LapBand system is not a permanent procedure. In addition to adjustments, removal is easy as well. Whether a patient wants to continue weight loss years after surgery naturally or if complications arise, safe removal is possible. After removal of the LapBand, the stomach will return to normal.
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Traveling to Mexico for LapBand Surgery
Are you not just overweight, but severely or morbidly obese? If so, you may want to seek help. After all, if you continue to carry around excess weight, your risk of early death and other health complications increase. Most individuals in your shoes turn to the LapBand surgery. If you opt for the same, the cost may shock you.
In the United States, the LapBand surgery averages between $15,000 and $20,000. At this point in time, many opt to forgo surgery altogether. Many others look for cheaper alternatives. Yes, it is possible to find surgeons in the United States who have cheaper rates, but many find the best luck with traveling to another country. For example, in Mexico, the LapBand procedure averages between $8,000 and $10,000.
So, should you travel to Mexico to undergo LapBand surgery? Before booking your traveling arrangements, examine the pros and cons of doing so.
In terms of pros or plus sides, there is the cost of surgery. As previously stated, LapBand surgery costs about $10,000 less in Mexico. This means you are automatically able to save money. If covered by health insurance and your provider is willing to extend coverage to the LapBand, opt for a surgeon in the United States. If you are uninsured, Mexico may sound like an ideal option.
In all honesty, the biggest advantage to heading to Mexico is the cost of surgery. There are many more cons to traveling for surgery. For starters, there is the unfamiliar territory. Hospitalization is less than 24 hours for most patients. With that said, you cannot return to your normal activities immediately following surgery. For example, most patients need one week off from work. Following surgery, you need to rest and make slow moments, not spend up to 12 hours in a car or time on an airplane.
As previously stated, recovery is important following the LapBand surgery. You may think that you could just stay at a hotel and recuperate in Mexico. Once again, keep familiar territory in mind. The LapBand surgery is safe and effective, but it is a huge change. Your diet is limited to clear liquids immediately following surgery. Many patients find this process difficult or unbearable. For your sanity, opt for recuperation at home where you are surrounded by a strong support group.
Most importantly, travel costs effect the cost of surgery. As previously stated, the cost of surgery is, on average, $10,000 less in Mexico. You are unlikely to spend $10,000 in travel expenses, but you never know. A passport, long distance road trip, airline tickets, and weeklong hotel stay can easily add up in costs. Yes, you will still save money, but compare that money saved with convenience. Is it really worth it to be all alone in a foreign country without close friends and family to support you, only to save $2,000? In most cases, no.
Of course, safety should be examined. In the United States, Board Certified Surgeons are recommended. These surgeons undergo strict testing and must following certain rules and restrictions. Yes, other countries hold their surgeons accountable for their actions, but most do not have as strict rules as the United States. This means that your surgeon may have a low success rate with the LapBand surgery or they may have multiple complaints lodged against them, which you may never know.
So, should you travel to Mexico for the LapBand surgery? The decision is yours to make, but first examine your local options.
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The Advantages of LapBand Surgery
Are you obese? If so, you may be concerned with your health. Obesity can lead to other health complications, including the early onset of death. For that reason, you may be ready to make the change. If so, you may turn to the internet to research your options. In just a few minutes, you will find the LapBand surgery.
The LapBand surgery is a popular procedure that has been performed in the United States since 2001. Although many Americans opt for this procedure and see success, you may be looking for more proof. What is it that makes the LapBand system better than other gastric bypass surgeries?
1 The LapBand System is Adjustable
Unlike many other forms of bariatric surgery, the LapBand is adjustable. This is very important for tailoring to patient needs. In fact, adjustments are common.
So, what does this mean for you? It means that you and your doctor will work together to decide on the appropriate measurements. This will give you the best chance of weight loss success. With that said, adjustments can be made at anytime. Are you not losing enough weight? Have you lost too much? If so, your band can easily be adjusted to fit your needs.
If that wasnt enough, the LapBand system can be adjusted without surgery. Adjustment is performed with the use of saline and a thin needle. In most cases, adjustments are included in the overall cost of LapBand surgery.
2 The LapBand System is Safe
According to the official website for the LapBand procedure, it is the safest obesity surgery currently available in the United States. It has the lowest mortality rate, as well as the lowest complication rate. This, alone, may give you comfort and peace of mind.
As for why the LapBand is the safest surgery option for those suffering from obesity, it involves the procedure. With the LapBand, there is so stomach pouch cutting and stapling. This reduces the risk of complications, including infection and scarring. Instead, an adjustable gastric band, known as the LapBand, is used to reduce stomach size.
While the LapBand procedure is considered safe and effective, further reduce the risk of complications by opting for a Board Certified Surgeon and by following all doctor recommendations.
3 The LapBand System is Reversible
As previously stated, the LapBand system is adjustable. Not only that, but it is removable. Those suffering from obesity, often find it hard to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine. With time, knowledge, and a LapBand procedure, weight loss is not only achievable, but it can turn into positive lifestyle change. In a few as five years or more, you may no longer need the band to help your maintain a healthy weight. In that event, it can be removed and your stomach will return to normal.
The LapBand system is a successful and proven way to lose weight. With that said, not everyone is the perfect match. Following surgery, if serious complications arise, the band may be removed. In this instance, the stomach and body return to normal.
4 The LapBand System is Convenient
Of course, no surgical procedure is truly convenient, but you will be pleased with the LapBand surgery. Since an adjustable gastric banding, known as the LapBand, is positioned around the stomach pouch, recovery time is short. You would spend more time in the hospital with a traditional gastric bypass surgery.
Since the recovery time is short, minor disruptions will interfere with your lifestyle. You will need to take a few days off from work. If your job duties include heavy lifting, first speak with your LapBand surgeon. Generally speaking, you will find yourself back at work and performing your day-to-day tasks in no time at all.
So, there you have it. Above four great reasons why the LapBand surgery is the best weight loss surgery available in the United States were highlighted. So, what are you waiting for? Speak to your primary care physician or contact a LapBand surgeon to see if you are eligible for this safe and potentially lifesaving procedure.
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LapBand Surgery: Common Risks and Complications
Those who suffer from severe or morbid obesity often opt for the LapBand surgery. With surgery, an adjustable gastric band, known as the LapBand, is used to reduce stomach size. This can assist with weight loss. Although deemed a successful and relatively safe way to lose weight, there are risk and complications.
When researching the LapBand system, you will see safety as an advantage. Yes, this is true. With that said, it is important to remember that the LapBand procedure is a surgery. Although no stomach stapling is involved, like with traditional gastric bypass surgeries, there are still risks. All surgical procedures, no matter how large or small, carry some dangers.
Unfortunately, those who suffer from obesity are more likely to experience surgery related complications. This seems like a lose lose situation. You are obese. After all, that is why you are seeking weight loss surgery. It is important to follow all doctor recommendations and choose a quality and certified surgeon. When you do so, your risks of LapBand complications are drastically reduced.
In terms of complications, most occur in the days or weeks following surgery. One complication or side effect of the LapBand system is regurgitation. This is caused by the blockage of food. Luckily, it is easy to avoid. Take small bites, wait before eating a second bite, eat slowly, chew food, and stop eating when full. These steps can reduce the risk of regurgitation; however, it may be due to surgical complications. If regurgitation occurs, no matter what steps you take, speak to your doctor. Your LapBand may be too tight.
Another complication of LapBand surgery is band slippage. Slippage is rare, but it can occur. In most cases, you will notice pain and discomfort. You may even find it difficult to sallow liquids, let alone eat food. As previously stated, slippage of the LapBand is rare, but contact your doctor immediately if you feel it may be an issue. If not treated, complete obstruction can occur.
Acid reflux is another common side effect of the LapBand system. Acid reflux leads to the production and buildup of acid in the stomach. The most common sign is heartburn. Although many individuals experience bouts of heartburn, including those who havent had surgery, acid reflux should not be ignored. It is a sign that your band may need adjusting.
Although not necessarily considered a dangerous complication, no weight loss is a complication of surgery. It has to do with band positioning. It is common for adjustments to be made following surgery. If you are not experiencing the weight loss anticipated by your surgeon, speak to him or her. An adjustment to the LapBand is needed. Luckily, this should not involve surgery. A thin needed and saline is used for LapBand adjustments.
As previously stated, LapBand adjustments are common. For that reason, they are not technically considered a risk or complication. Each patients weight loss needs vary and changes overtime. For that reason, expect to have your band adjusted. Do not fret when it is suggested.
As a recap, all surgical procedures have some form of risk and complication. With that said, you may take comfort in knowing that many studies have shown the LapBand is a relatively safe weight loss surgery. The risk of morality, minor and major complications is lower than with alternatives.
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