The surgical procedure known as the lap band takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours and is normally conducted under full general anesthesia. The procedure is done using laparoscopic techniques. During the procedure, incisions, between 3 and 5, are made in the stomach. The incisions are of 1 inch in length. There is insertion of a small camera into one of these incisions so that the procedure can be viewed on a screen. In considering lap band surgery nj residents should have all the relevant facts.

The remaining incisions allow for placement of the band and use of instruments of surgery. The band is placed on the upper section of the stomach before being set to position using sutures. This is followed by placement of the port in the abdominal wall and then sutured into position. The modes of preparing for surgery will vary depending on the program chosen or the surgeon.

Before the surgery, the doctor will want to see commitment from a patient as concerns lifestyle changes. The patient will be advised to eat between 5 to 6 small meals daily as preparation for changes ahead. Such high calorie foodstuffs as ice cream and milk shakes should not be taken. In case the BMI exceeds 50 or for those that suffer from other medical issues, there may be need for reduction of medical risk before the procedure.

Period taken to recover depends on an individual. Nevertheless, there will be quicker recovery for people undergoing lap band surgery than those considering the gastric bypass procedure. On a general sense however, most people will resume work a week after treatment. People whose jobs are physically demanding will not however be able to do so. They will need longer time for recovery. Normal activity normally resumes after six weeks.

The various risks and side effects of the procedure will need to be considered. Most surgeons will take patients through such risks before a decision can be made. Side effects will be more pronounced in people with poor health. People suffering from diabetes, asthma or such ailments are in this category. Death is a possibility though it happens very rarely.

Gall stones have been reported in about three percent of patients. Internal bleeding and strictures are possible effects as well. For some patients, there may be infections, leaking of the gastrointestinal tract, pulmonary embolism or too much loss of weight. These risks may or may not occur and will also not occur with the same severity in all individuals.

Some individuals will not lose as much weight as they may have anticipated. Some possible reasons for this include lack of adequate exercising and poor dieting. To get the best outcomes, patients should stick to the diet plan set out by the doctor. The majority of side effects are able to be prevented if one sticks to the advice of the physician. Such advice will help in healthy recovery.

Among the very common effects is vomiting and nausea. This in most cases is related to diet issues. The physician needs to be contacted in the event of vomiting because it could signal more serious issues.