There are many different advantages to Lap Band surgery, but what are the disadvantages or drawbacks that may be associated with this type of bariatric surgery? While Lap Band surgery is the most commonly performed procedure for weight loss in morbidly obese patients there are some risks and possible drawbacks, and these disadvantages should be carefully considered before you make the decision to have this procedure done. In most cases excellent results have been seen after this surgery is performed, but the weight loss seen by each patient will vary. The exact amount of weight lost has been shown to depend on follow up visits, which are required frequently after your surgery is done.
One disadvantage with the Lap Band technique is that a team effort is required, and both the patient and the surgeon will have an impact on the amount of weight that you lose. You will need to commit to monthly follow up visits for at least a year after your surgery is performed, and sometimes for even longer than this. Follow up visits after the first year are not usually included in the cost of surgery, and may or may not be covered by your health insurance plan. These visits can run from around seventy five dollars to over one hundred dollars each visit, and this cost can add up quickly if your insurance does not help with the costs.
Some of the Lap Band surgery disadvantages occur because this procedure is a long term method. There is a small risk of band erosion, generally around one to two percent, and if this happens then an additional surgery may be required to correct this complication. Another disadvantage is the risk of stomach slippage, and this is larger than the risk of erosion and may occur in between five and ten percent of patients who undergo Lap Band surgery. If slippage occurs then an additional surgery will be required to repair this problem.
Lap Band surgery places a band around the stomach, and over time this device may require repairs for optimal functioning. If repairs are required then you may need to have more surgeries, and while these are minor procedures they do carry some additional risks. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and this also involves risks of complications or even death. Lap Band surgery does have some disadvantages, but for many patients who are morbidly obese the benefits that this surgery can offer will far outweigh the risks and disadvantages.