UNDERSTANDING LAP-BAND® RISKS

We often see patients who struggle to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise alone. These patients often make excellent candidates for bariatric surgery. The LAP-BAND® procedure is one of the safest surgical weight loss treatments available, but that does not mean that it is necessarily risk-free. Dr. Joseph Naim, the surgeon at Advance Bariatric Center, has extensive experience performing several types of bariatric procedures, which minimizes the associated LAP-BAND® risks. The team at one of our locations in Long Beach, Los Angeles, or throughout Orange County have helped many patients adopt a new, healthier lifestyle with this safe and reliable procedure. If you have had trouble losing weight and you would like to learn more about LAP-BAND®, please contact our office to make an appointment with Dr. Naim.

Inherent Risks Associated with Surgery

Although our highly skilled surgeon operates within the highest standards of health and safety, it is imperative that you understand the risks involved with LAP-BAND® treatment:

• Band deflation - The valve, connective tubing, or the band itself may become damaged and begin to lose saline fluid, which will cause the band to deflate. If this happens, the band will need to be repaired which will require another surgery.
• Band erosion - In rare cases, the band may erode into the stomach.
• Slipping - The LAP-BAND® or the patient's stomach can slip out of place and obstruct the opening to the stomach. This will require an additional surgery to correct.
• Stomach irritation - Patients may experience problems with their stomachs following their procedure. Common issues may include heartburn, inflammation, and ulceration.
• Stomach pouch stretching - The LAP-BAND® System is effective because it creates a smaller stomach pouch which decreases the capacity for the amount of food it can hold. Over time, this new pouch may become enlarged, which can result in a slowing or reversing of weight loss and require an adjustment.
• Problems with eating - Because this surgery drastically reduces the size of the stomach, some patients may develop gastroesophageal reflux or difficulty swallowing.
• Circulatory damage - Although Dr. Naim has an impeccable safety record, it is important to understand that with any surgery, there is the possibility of damage to major blood vessels. Additionally, some patients may develop blood clots after their procedure, which can be extremely dangerous if left untreated.
• Organ damage - In all laparoscopic surgeries, there is the potential for the stomach, spleen, liver, or other organ to suffer damage. If any complications arise, this will typically require an additional surgery.
• Incision site rupture - Following your surgery, the incision site may rupture. This is not a serious complication, but could result in a larger scar.
• Other risks - Patients will occasionally experience gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, constipation, and dehydration following their LAP-BAND® surgery.

Weighing Risks with Benefits

The decision to undergo bariatric surgery is highly personal. For the right patients, the health risks associated with remaining overweight are determined to be greater than possible complications that could result from your procedure. Dr. Naim will help you weigh your options and recommend the best method of losing weight based on your unique condition and lifestyle. 

Make a LAP-BAND® Surgery Appointment

Dr. Naim will take every step needed to ensure your safety during your procedure. He has performed many LAP-BAND® surgeries with excellent results. If you have struggled with your weight and would like to learn more about how the LAP-BAND® System works, please contact our office to schedule a consultation.