Lap-Band: Lap-Band, also referred to as Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding or LAGB is a type of weight loss procedure that is characterized by placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach laparoscopically. Saline solution can be added to fill the band and tighten it. A port is placed under the abdominal skin and the band is connected to this port. The purpose of the port is to inject or remove saline solution into the band. LAGB creates a small pouch in the upper part of the stomach, thereby, reducing the size and total capacity to hold food of the stomach. The passage of food from the stomach to the intestine is also slowed down. The effect of this is that the signals of fullness and satiety from the small pouch are sent to the brain even with the consumption of small amounts of food. LAGB is performed on individuals with a BMI of 40 or more or with a BMI of 35 or more with associated medical problems such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, stroke etc.

Bariatric Surgical Diet while in the Hospital

Stage I – Post-Op and the Hospital Diet

At this time, Dr. Belsley and the hospital team will be monitoring your progress by seeing how well you tolerate low-sugar, non-carbonated liquids such as water, tea, and broth. Sugar-free gelatin is another option. Use a cup to drink and avoid sipping from a bottle or straw.

Pre-op Bariatric Diet

Phase I – Pre-Surgery Clear Liquid Diet

The first phase of clear liquids will actually start five days prior to surgery. You will be advised to drink only clear liquids and be expected to adhere to this for the five days prior to surgery regardless of which operation you will be undergoing. We allow two protein supplements per day for the first two days of this five day period.

Diabetes

Diabetes Mellitus or diabetes is a condition in which the blood sugar levels reach abnormally high levels because the body is unable to control sugar levels by producing enough insulin or responding to insulin properly. Diabetes occurs because either the pancreas produces insufficient insulin necessary for the absorption of sugar by the body cells or the body cells are resistant to the insulin that is produced and therefore unable to absorb the sugars.

Fingerstick to check glucose in diabetic patient

BMI Calculator

Weight Loss and Body mass index (BMI) Calculator and Estimates for Surgical Procedures

Dr. Belsley uses this calculator during his office consultation to help provide information regarding diet, nutrition and estimates for surgical weight loss.

What Digestive Changes Occur After Lap-Band Surgery

How Does a Lap-band Affect Dieting and Help Weight Loss?

Most people choose bariatric surgery, a gastric lap-band included, as a physical solution to a medically serious and seemingly intractable weight problem. With the emphasis on the procedure, it’s very easy to think of the lap-band itself as a device that does all the work necessary to lose substantial weight.

Lap - Band Surgery

Laparoscopic gastric banding is a surgery that reduces the capacity of the stomach with the help of a silicone ring and an inflatable balloon that is fitted on the outside of the stomach. The balloon inflates with the injection of fluid through the injection port. This narrows the opening of the upper pouch, wherein the amount of food you eat is controlled while the emptying process of the stomach pouch is slowed.

Weight Loss

Bariatric surgery requires a change in the way that you think about food, dieting and exercise. Although there are definite physiological changes that occur after surgery and that will help you lose weight, it is important that you realize the need to change your environment and some of your previous lifestyle choices. Although the operations change the way in which your body processes food, some of these changes are only temporary. It is important that you start life-affirming habits that will help you succeed.