We understand you want to consider all the facts as you carefully weigh the decision to have weight loss surgery. Despite the evidence that shows the tremendous positive impact it can have on your health and emotional well being, there are risks and concerns. Our experienced staff and surgeons want to explain how lap band surgery can improve your life. Let us giving you some simple facts to help you in your decision process.
According to the National Institute of Health: "Lap-band surgery patients show a dramatic and sustained improvement in the quality of their lives beyond the extent of their weight loss".
Studies have proven that patients who have undergone bariatric surgery go on to earn more money, advance their careers at their current job and see less discrimination in the overall job market. There are now many reasons to consider lap band surgery that go beyond the long term health benefits.
Pros of LapBand Surgery
* The procedure is reversible and only requires the band to be removed for the stomach to return to normal size and function.
* The stomach does not need to be cut open or stapled shut.
* No issues with vitamin or nutrient deficiency because the intestines are not altered.
* There are fewer mortality rates and fewer severe complications as compared to other more invasive weight loss surgeries.
*The hospital stay is short and the recovery time quicker than other surgeries.
* The band can be adjusted and filled without the need for further surgery.
* Weight loss band wearers see an improvement in overall health, including cholesterol, blood pressure, asthma, diabetes, and arthritis.
* Women of child bearing age can get this procedure and not worry about vitamin and mineral deficiency during pregnancy.
Cons of LapBand Surgery
* The band can negatively impact a pregnancy, and women should consider deflation if morning sickness or other pains are present.
* Weight loss is slower than with more invasive surgeries, but measures out to about the same amount lost after five years.
* Patients commonly report regurgitation of swallowed food, either from a blocked area in the stomach or from eating too quickly.
* Food must be chewed thoroughly, slowly, and only a small amount can be eaten at each meal.
* The band can erode or slip, causing bleeding or puncturing of the stomach.
* Bleeding or infection can occur at or around the band site.
* Some patients fail to lose a noticeable amount of weight even after the surgery.
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