How Do You Know if You Qualify for the Lap Band Surgery?

Although numerous individuals desire the lap band procedure to affect positive weight loss, some of them may not be a viable candidate for it. As with any elective surgery, there are huge associated risks and gastric bypass is fairly invasive operation. This is why ethical doctors will always look at a patient's history prior to deciding to go through with this type of surgery.

Some of the more basic considerations for the lap band operation are the weight and age of the patient. A patient should be between the ages of 18-55 and over 100 pounds in weight and/or have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35-39. For people with a BMI index that is between 35-40, it is required to establish how weight gain has affected overall health; however, individual's with a BMI of 40 and over won't have to have weight related health issues to receive the surgery.

Below is a list of other considerations that a bariatric physician may contemplate in an effort to see if you qualify for lap band surgery.

Medical history
Medical history is extremely important as it determines your ability to undergo an invasive operation. For example, individuals with blood clotting problems or cardiovascular issues may not be able to be subjected to lap band surgery without serious complications during or after the procedure.

Those who have an illness that may have directly caused their obesity may also be ineligible for lap band surgery as well. If you are unsure as to what contributed to your weight gain, seek a full medical examination prior to your lap band consultation.

Smoker
People who smoke tend to develop more post operative related issues than those who do not and can lengthen their recovery time. A smoker who truly wishes to alter their lifestyle and get on the fast track towards weight loss would have to quit smoking before their surgery.

Lifestyle
If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, eat tons of junk food and lead a hectic, stress filled life your doctor could ask that you alter these things prior to lap band surgery. If this seems impossible to do, you may have to seek the assistance of a certified behavioral specialist to adopt healthier attitudes before being seriously considered for the lap band.

Diet and exercise history
It is imperative to establish that the patient has tried alternative methods of weight loss with limited to no success. This is to prevent the misuse of the lap band as a cure all solution to weight gain. Those who have attempted a diet and exercise program prior to seeking the lap band procedure are also most likely to follow the lap band meal and exercise plan after surgery which is essential to the operation's success.

Pre op tests
To further ensure the success of lap band surgery, a doctor will perform a battery of diagnostic tests to establish your ongoing health and viability for surgery. Some of the test may include ultra sounds, CAT-scans, X-rays and analysis of the blood and urine. If these tests come up normal, you will be able to progress to the next levels of evaluation, namely psychological ones, to see your mental preparedness for the procedure. Once all relevant information has been collected, you can start the lengthy pre-op preparations for lap band surgery.

Is the lap band for you?
If you are serious about wanting to lose weight and don't mind making extreme lifestyle changes, contact a local certified bariatric physician nearest your for a consultation. He will be able to explain the procedure, go over the associated risks and evaluate if lap band surgery is right for you.

Wanting to look and feel your best is the first step towards a richer, more fulfilling life. With the right mindset, the lap band can help you achieve those goals.

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