LAP-BAND Adjustments
One of the most unique and beneficial elements of the lap-band is that it can be adjusted long after your surgery is over. Adding saline solution makes the band tighter, reducing how much you can eat and how quickly the food leaves your new stomach. Removing saline makes the band looser, allowing more food to sit in the stomach.
Deflated lap-band
Inflated lap-bandHow tight should my band be?
Ideally, the band restriction should be enough that you gradually lose weight while continuing to maintain healthy nutritional status.
When should I have my first lap-band adjustment?
Patients usually have their bands adjusted for the first time 5 weeks after surgery, during their second post-operative visit.
When should I have a lap-band adjustment?
- If you have not lost weight in 2 weeks or more
- If you have gained weight
- If feel significantly less restriction
- If you can eat regular size portions
- If your band is too tight
How is the lap-band adjusted?
The lap-band adjustment is a quick and relatively painless outpatient procedure. First, we will perform an x-ray to determine the exact location of the band's access port. Next, your surgeon will pass a fine needle through the skin into the port and begin adding or removing saline, as needed. Local anesthesia is used prior to beginning the procedure.
Note: Only a trained medical clinician can adjust your band. Never attempt to adjust your own band or allow an untrained person or non-medical professional to do it.
How long will it take to have a lap-band adjustment?
The adjustment usually takes only a few minutes to complete, and you will be able to leave our center immediately following the procedure. You may be placed back on a liquid diet for a few days following the adjustment in order to give your stomach some time to adapt to the restriction change.
How many lap-band adjustments will I need?
Every patient has different needs, and the number of adjustments you may vary. Some patients need only one adjustment, while others may need two or three during the first year depending upon their individual responses to the band and the degree of weight loss desired.
Are lap-band Adjustments covered by my insurance company?
Currently, most insurance policies do pay for band adjustments. If your insurance policy does provide coverage for your lap-band surgery, it will most likely also cover the lap-band adjustments. On the other hand, if you didn't meet your insurance policy criteria for the lap-band procedure and had to pay for it from your own pocket, usually you will need to cover the band adjustments' cost by yourself. Nevertheless, if you have health insurance, we would highly recommend you to contact our insurance coordinator so you do not miss out on funding you are entitled to.
Will I always need lap-band adjustments?
lap-band adjustments are an essential part of a proper after-surgery follow-up care. Although lap-band adjustments are especially important during the first two years following surgery, it is recommended that you visit the clinic at least once every six months. Even if you feel that band has stayed well-adjusted, you always have to check in with your surgeon to make sure everything is fine.
How do I know my band is well adjusted?
Your lap-band well adjusted if you have no issues with swallowing and you feel full after eating approximately half a cup of food.
How do I prepare myself for a lap-band adjustment?
Because your surgeon needs to see on the x-ray machine how well your band is restricted, your stomach should be empty. You should avoid eating and drinking for four hours prior to your visit.
How soon after the adjustment can I have something to eat?
Depending on your surgeon, you may be put on a liquid diet for 24 hours, or you may be allowed to eat right away.
If you have any other questions regarding your lap-band adjustments or you would like to schedule one, please contact our office at (312) 239-3838.
