Is there a special diet to follow before and after the surgery?
A special liquid diet is required before Lap-Band bariatric surgery. After surgery, patients follow a progressive diet of liquids to soft foods to solid foods. Each patient meets with a registered dietitian to discuss the diet and to receive written guidelines.

Will I be in pain after the Lap-Band procedure?
You may feel some pain around the incision sites, especially under the skin of the abdomen where the access port is placed. Discomfort may last about a week.

How long is the Lap-Band surgery recovery period?
The average hospital stay is less than 24 hours. Most patients have their surgery in the morning and go home in the afternoon. Most patients return to work in one week. Walking is recommended as an easy way to start getting exercise during the recovery period.

Will I need to take vitamins?
A daily vitamin is recommended for Lap-Band patients, and vitamins with a B complex and folate are optimal. Women should also take a daily 500 mg calcium supplement with meals for optimum absorption.

What about liquids?
48 – 64 ounces of liquids, taken one hour before or after a meal, are recommended each day. Drinking liquids with a meal defeats the purpose of the Lap-Band.

How often should I have my Lap-Band adjusted (filled)?
Two things indicate when an adjustment (fill) is needed:
You are not losing 1.5 – 2 lbs of weight per week.
AND / OR you are able to eat one cup or more of food at a meal.
The time in between each fill is different for each patient. Adjustments are made during the first 12 – 18 months after surgery.

Can I still eat sweets?
Lap-Band patients do not experience "dumping syndrome" as can occur after gastric bypass surgery. However, eating sweets or high-calorie foods will sabotage weight loss. Milkshakes, candy, cookies, potato chips and the like are empty calories that can add up FAST!

Is a bariatric surgery support group available?
Yes, a Lap-Band support group meets monthly at Manatee Memorial Hospital. Led by a registered dietitian, the group is made up of a diverse group of patients who attend regularly. Some patients are a few weeks into their surgical recovery, others, a few years! Manatee Memorial recommends participating in a support group to improve and help sustain long-term weight loss. For dates and times, call 941-745-7245.