LAP-BAND General FAQ
Many patients at DayOne Health have questions about the lap-band procedure. We want to make sure you are fully informed about the lap-band. Below are the questions our Chicago weight loss clinic commonly hears. If you have additional questions you can schedule an appointment or view our online information sessions.
How long will I need to take off of work after my lap-band surgery?
Usually about 4-5 days. Most patients feel some fatigue and weakness for 3-5 days but are able to return to normal functions after about 5-7 days. If you do manual labor, you may wish to stay off of work a little longer.
On the day of my surgery, how much time beforehand do I need to arrive?
You will receive a phone call from a DayOne nurse the day before your surgery to review last minute pre-operative instructions with you and confirm your arrival time the day of surgery. Generally, we ask that our patients arrive at the Surgery Center one hour prior to surgery.
Does the Surgery Center have gowns, beds and other equipment large enough to accommodate me?
Yes, DayOne is committed to your comfort. As a result, we have customized beds, gowns, wheelchairs, operating room equipment and x-ray equipment designed expressly for obese patients. Furthermore, our nursing staff is fully trained to address the needs of overweight patients.
Are DayOne Health's anesthesiologists experienced with the unique needs of obese patients?
Absolutely! In keeping with our commitment to the highest quality care, DayOne uses only Board Certified or Board Eligible physician anesthesiologists in the operating room — never CNRAs / nurse anesthetists — all of whom are experienced in treating obese patients.
How long will I be in surgery?
Your operation itself lasts anywhere from 60-90 minutes.
Do you remove the gallbladder during surgery?
No, we do not remove the gallbladder on a routine basis unless we conduct a gallbladder ultrasound and it indicates otherwise. Your lap-band surgeon will discuss this with you further during your consultation.
How long will I be in recovery following my surgery?
Following surgery, patients are monitored in a recovery room for approximately 3 to 6 hours before being discharged from the Surgery Center. Recovery times vary depending upon the individual patient.
Will I have lung therapy?
Yes, following surgery you will be asked to breathe in a tube every hour (incentive spirometry) until you are discharged.
Am I required to stay at the Surgery Center until I have a bowel movement?
No.
How soon and how often can I walk after my operation?
We encourage patients to walk as soon and as much as possible after their surgery.
How long will I need to stay at the Center following my surgery?
As the lap-band surgery is performed on an outpatient basis at DayOne, patients are released the same day as their surgery.
Will I feel much pain after the procedure?
Patients are given pain medication for use at home following surgery. Most individuals experience only mild discomfort, which is generally relieved by the pain medicine.
What types of pain management will you provide after surgery?
Generally we use liquid Vicodin® or Tylenol® for our patients. We offer alternatives for those who are allergic to these pain particular medications.
How soon after surgery will I be allowed to drink water?
You will be able to drink water the same day as your surgery.
