line

What to Expect after Lap-Band Weight Loss Surgery

When patients who are overweight choose to have weight loss surgery, it is vital that they have realistic expectations of what the surgery can do for them. Some patients experience a greater degree of success than others. These types of surgeries are not right for everyone.
For people who are less than ideal candidates, their doctor may recommend another way to lose weight. This is because the surgery may not work for them or may cause complications. Most patients who have the Lap-Band weight loss surgery can expect to lose around 36 percent of their excess weight, however it does take time. This weight loss is usually over a two to three year period.

Weight loss surgery is often not enough for many patients.

Those who have the surgery, must be able to make adjustments in their life to make the surgery work to their advantage. Following a Lap-Band weight loss surgery, patients should expect their doctor to recommend seeing a dietitian and a therapist. In addition, patients should also expect to change their eating habits, their attitudes towards food and add exercise in their daily routine. In addition, weight loss surgery often has side effects, so it is important to understand these side effects and how to deal with them.

Doctors often recommend that weight loss surgery patients see both a dietitian and a therapist.

A dietitian can work with the patient to recommend eating changes that will help aid the weight loss. A good dietician can show the patient how to prepare healthier meals and how to eat so they feel full without damaging the stomach. Many weight loss patients can also benefit from seeing a therapist or psychologist. Losing a large amount of weight can be difficult on a person. Some may feel overjoyed at losing weight, while others may become depressed or feel different about them.

After having weight loss surgery is critical that patients change their eating habits.

For at least five weeks after the surgery, there are strict dietary guidelines that must be followed. After this time, patients should expect to add foods to their diet, but there are still restrictions. Most patients need to eat several very small meals a day and should eliminate certain foods. Only one or two ounces of lean protein is allowed a day and only one to two servings of fresh fruits are recommended. In addition, foods that are generally off limits include syrups, honey, cakes, biscuits, pies, chips and pastries. Foods that can cause blockage after surgery include shrimp, pasta, rice, dried fruit, peanut butter, nuts and seeded fruits and vegetables. Foods must be chewed thoroughly and liquids should never be taken with meals.

Exercise is also recommended after weight loss surgery. Patients should expect to exercise about thirty minutes each day following surgery. This does not always have to be very strenuous exercise, but a moderate form is best. Patients should start slowly and work up to more involved forms of exercise. This can aid weight loss and help the patient gain muscle mass.

>> Diabetes and Weight Loss Surgery >>