How much weight will I lose?

Long term (10 years) the expected average weight loss for the gastric band is 50-60% of your excess weight. For example if you're 40 kg's overweight you can expect to lose between 20 and 24 kg's. There are people who lose more weight and there are people who lose less. The aim is to lose between 0.5 - 1kg per week.

For the other operations:

Gastric Bypass = 60-70%
Biliopancreatic Diversion = 70-80%

Why have the Lap Gastric Band instead of a bypass if the long term weight loss is less?

The reason is simple. It is at least 10 safer than both the gastric bypass and the biliopancreatic diversion. It is also very easily reversed or removed.

What are the risks?

There is currently a re-operation rate of 5-10%. For more information follow this link.

How long does it take to lose the weight?

The majority of the weight is lost in the first 12 months, but weight loss occurs for 18-24 months after which time it stabilizes. There is often a small increase in weight at this stage.

How long is the hospital stay?

Typically the average is 2 nights. Some people are able to go home the next day, and others may need an extra night in hospital.

Is the surgery very painful?

Most patients would require one or two doses of morphine just after the operation. By the next day Panadeine Forte or Panadeine is usually enough and this is usually taken for three to four days.

How many incisions will I have?

Five or six small incisions are made. Two that measure 15mm, one of 10mm, and 2 or 3 of 5mm.

What happens if I fall pregnant?

Obviously the needs of the growing baby need to be met and this is easily taken care of by removing some of the fluid in the band to remove the restriction to eating. In this way you can eat more and the baby can grow normally.

When do I get my first 'Fill'?

Not everyone is the same. You never get your first fill before 6 weeks. You are seen in the clinic at 2 weeks to make sure all the wounds are healing up nicely, and that there are no other problems. At six weeks the gastric band is ready to be filled (never before). By 6 weeks the band will have had time to knit to the stomach, and your first fill may occur. If you are losing weight and not eating too much you may not need one (fill). Most people require between 2 and 6 band inflations (or deflations) to get it perfect.