Some of the Most Common Myths about the Lap Band Dispelled
The lap band is a reasonably new type of bariatric surgery. The gastric bypass, by comparison, has been around for some 30 years. As a result, a lot of myths still exist about this new procedure. The reality is that not everybody is a suitable candidate for it, which is why you should always find extensive lap band procedure information before you decide to go ahead with the procedure. This includes dispelling the myths around the procedure. Below are three of the most common myths.
Myth 1 – The Lap Band Procedure Is Dangerous
All surgeries have associated risks. However, the lap band has been shown to be incredibly safe with a very low chance of complications, particularly compared to a gastric bypass. The complications that do arise from having a lap band fitted tend to be very easy to resolve. The mortality rate with a gastric bypass is around ten times higher than that of a lap band. Additionally, you have to remember that the risk of dying because obesity is not addressed will always be higher than the risk associated with any type of gastric surgery.
Adjustable Gastric Band photo Xopusmagnumx at en.wikipedia
Myth 2 – Having a Lap Band Fitted Means Women Can no Longer Get Pregnant
A lot of women worry about the effect of weight loss surgery on their ability to conceive. Patients that have a lap band fitted can safely get pregnant. However, the official advice is to wait around two years after the surgery. This is because you will lose most of your weight during this time period as well. It is healthier to fall pregnant when your body weight is stable. Because the lap band is not a malabsorptive procedure, there is no risk of the baby receiving too few nutrients. Additionally, a lap band is fully adjustable, which means it can be loosened during pregnancy to allow the woman to increase her food intake during pregnancy and nursing.
Myth 3 – The Subsequent Quality of Life Is Lower with a Lap Band than with a Gastric Bypass
Although the lap band is a relatively new procedure, preliminary studies have shown that lap band patients experience the same quality of life as gastric bypass patients. Additionally, it can be said that it is actually higher because lap band patients experience far fewer side effects while they lose weight. The goal of both surgeries is to improve overall quality of life by lowering body weight and fighting weight-associated health conditions and by increasing self-esteem. The lap band achieves this in a more gradual way, thereby allowing patients more time to adjust to their new body. Additionally, the dumping syndrome, a common and uncomfortable side effect, does not occur with the lap band, which means it could again be said that the procedure is actually superior.
If you remain unsure about whether or not the lap band procedure is right for you, it is best to make an appointment with a qualified surgeon for a consultation. They will be able to address all your concerns.
Guest Author: Lolita Di
