The LapBand procedure is a weight loss surgery that has increased in popularity since is introduction to the United States in 2001. So, what is it that sets the LapBand apart from other bariatric procedures? It has to do with risk and convenience. With a lower complication and death rate and a shorter recovery period, the LapBand is the preferred choice of treatment for most individuals and healthcare professionals.

If you are overweight, you may be ready to jump on the LapBand bandwagon. As previously stated, the LapBand surgery does have a number of benefits, but it is not right for everyone. So, how do you know? Please continue reading on for five signs that the LapBand surgery is something you should closely examine. In the event the signs apply to you, schedule a consultation appointment with a LapBand surgeon to determine your eligibility.

1 If Your Doctor Suggests It

Those who suffer from obesity are likely to schedule more appointments with their primary care physician. Those suffering from obesity, deal with other health related complications, including asthma and diabetes. In most cases, primary care physicians recommend healthy eating and exercise. In extreme cases of obesity, the LapBand system may be mentioned.

If your primary care physician suggests the LapBand surgery, take this suggestion to heart. Your doctor has your best interests in mind.

2 If You Are Severely Obese

On average, those suffering from obesity have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more. This usually translates to 30 pounds overweight. Although obesity has many risks and complications, LapBand surgeons are selective. In most cases, simply just being obese isnt enough to warrant a LapBand procedure. Instead, most physicians recommend patients have a Body Mass Index (BMI) rating of 40 or more. This translates into severe and morbid obesity.

If you are 100 pounds overweight or more, LapBand surgery may not only help you lose weight, but it may save your life.

3 If You Are Unable to Lose Weight

In most cases, the LapBand surgery is used as a last resort. It is considered a relatively safe procedure, but there are always risks involved. That is why most professionals opt for natural weight loss methods. Before giving the okay for LapBand, most surgeons want to see proof that their patients have tried to lose weight with diet and exercise. If not, most will try natural approaches before opting for surgery.

If you have unsuccessfully tried to lose weight with diet and exercise multiple times, weight loss surgery may be your only option.

4 If Your Health is at Risk

Health will play a huge role in ones ability to undergo LapBand surgery. For many, it is a double sword. LapBand surgery and weight loss can lessen the symptoms of asthma, diabetes, and other obesity related conditions. In fact, symptoms may completely disappear. On that same note, those who are obese due to a medical condition, such as a thyroid problem or pregnancy, are not ideal candidates. In these instances, a reduced stomach size may not cure a weight problem.

If you suffer from obesity related health problems, consider surgery. Not only will you lose weight, but your overall health and wellbeing will improve. You may feel as if you got a new lease on life with the LapBand surgery.

5 If You Cannot Complete Daily Activities

Despite being obese, some men and women are able to lead normal and happy lives. This is often the case with slight obesity. On the other hand, there are those who cannot do daily activities or needed tasks. Those who find it impossible to play with their children, walk up a flight of stairs, or leave the house, are at a serious and dangerous stage. This is the point where LapBand surgery and other extreme methods of weight loss should be examined.

If your obesity restricts your ability to go about your day, now is the time to consider the LapBand system.

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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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You may have heard that the LapBand surgery is a great way to lose weight. Yes, it is. After all, the LapBand is one of the fastest growing weight loss surgeries in the United States. So, if you are ready to lose weight and improve your health, you may be ready to get started.

First, you need to determine if you are eligible. Most times, you will do so with your primary care physician. He or she will review the standard eligibility criteria used by most LapBand surgeons. For example, most only operate on those between the ages of 18 and 60 and those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher. If you are deemed an ideal candidate, a referral will be provided.

The best way to find a quality LapBand surgeon is to use the referral of a primary care physician. With that said, you can choose your own surgeon. The internet or local phone book is an easy way to get started. If not using a referral, set up a consultation appointment immediately to determine your eligibility.

The next step is to review all health insurance coverage. If you are insured, coverage may be extended. LapBand surgery is often an optional procedure. This means that if strict rules and restrictions are met, coverage is likely. Speak to your health insurance provider and physician to determine coverage eligibility and amount.

Before getting your heart set on the LapBand system or before going in for the procedure, it is important to arrange payment. On average, the LapBand system costs between $15,000 and $20,000 in the United States. If paying with a debit card, contact your bank to have your daily limit temporarily lifted. If unable to pay the cost upfront, inquire about a payment plan.

Your initial consultation appointment is where you will be deemed an ideal candidate for LapBand surgery. After that, you will still have follow-up appointment. These will be to prepare you for surgery and monitor the strict pre-surgery diet of lean meats, vegetables, fruits, and yogurt. At least one of these appointments should be with the surgeon performing the procedure.

Two to three weeks before the LapBand procedure, patients need to restrict their diet. As previously stated, this diet contains lean meats, yogurt, fruits, vegetables, and other similar foods. Why not get started earlier? This gives you reassurance that you can restrict your diet before and after surgery. It also allows you to experiment and find healthy food that works for you.

One of the many advantages to undergoing the LapBand is the short recovery time. Since the stomach is resized with an adjustable band, as opposed to stomach stapling, hospitalization is usually less than 24 hours. Still, you will need time off from work. Discuss work with your surgeon. Your job duties will determine time needed for recovery.

Preparing your home is another important pre-surgery step. Before undergoing surgery, prepare everything you need at home. This may involve cleaning, rearranging for easy movement, and so forth. If responsible for cooking for other family members, cook and freeze meals ahead of time.

Buying post-surgery supplies ahead of time can ease the recovery process. Immediately following the LapBand surgery, a clear liquid diet is required. A few days later, you will be able to transition to full liquid foods. Stock up on these liquids before your surgery. You will experience a some difficulty getting around, so dont make unnecessary trips to the grocery store.

Finally, arrange transportation to and from surgery. Patients undergoing the LapBand procedure cannot eat or drink after midnight. This may leave you feeling tired and lightheaded, so do not drive. The same is said for post-surgery. Instead, recruit a friend or family member for transportation.

Most importantly, follow the advice of your surgeon. If your surgeon advises you to restrict your diet before surgery, do it. These rules and restrictions are designed to protect your health and wellbeing. When following the advice of a LapBand surgeon, your risk of surgery related complications decrease.

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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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