Planning for a Gastric Band (Lap Band)

Once you have decided to opt for Lap band surgery there are the two important issues of where to have the surgery and what the cost will be.  You should seek out an experienced surgeon who has performed many lap band surgeries and is very knowledgeable on your chosen procedure.  Having a referral from another doctor is often the way that many patients decide on their surgeon.  This is often a good way of choosing a surgeon, word and mouth and referral are the most common ways which weight loss surgery patients find their surgeons.  Make sure your surgeon is experienced in lap band surgery and able to answer all your questions and queries.  He/she should be able to give you informative answers and be comfortable discussing lap band surgery.  Do not feel that you are taking up the surgeon’s time by asking lots of questions, it is best to be informed and the surgeon should be pleased you are being thorough in your research.  It is also common for lap band patients to have heard of the treatment because a friend or family member has had the treatment.  Having a recommendation from a real life case study is very reassuring and also enables you to fully understand what the procedure involves.  If you do know anyone who has had the surgery it is a good idea to speak with them and find out everything you can about the treatment before opting for surgery. 

The surgery is not suitable for those patients suffering from severe psychiatric illnesses, those with addictions to drugs or alcohol, over 65’s, cancer patients not in remission or those with many health problems that would make surgery too risky. 


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