Fingerlakes Weight Loss Program

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Excellus BC/BS
excellusbcbs.com

Auburn Memorial Hospital
auburnhospital.org

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LAP-BAND® Procedure
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Weight Loss Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Am I a candidate for bariatric (weight loss) surgery?
• A: You may be a candidate for bariatric surgery if at least one of the following conditions applies to you:
  
  You are at least 100 pounds overweight
  Your BMI (body mass index) is over 40
  If your BMI is between 35 and 40 and you have a medical condition such as diabetes, hypertension or sleep apnea.
  
  
• Q: How do I schedule an initial consultation with the Fingerlakes Weight Loss Program?
• A: We recommend you first come to an informational meeting (see schedule). At the meeting you will be given a packet with instructions on how to register on line at http://www.fingerlakesweightlossprogram.remedymd.com.
  
  
• Q: What tests are needed before surgery is done?
• A: At the time of preoperative assessment we determine if any additional consultations are necessary. Generally speaking each patient needs medical clearance from your primary care provider, psychological evaluation, a gall bladder ultrasound, upper endoscopy (scope) as well as laboratory evaluation and an EKG.
  
  
• Q: What is the average length of stay in the hospital?
• A: It depends on the procedure that is done. Laparoscopic gastric bypass patients usually go home on the second day after surgery. Gastric bypass patients who undergo open surgery may go home from the second to the fourth day after surgery, depending on their recovery.
  
  
• Q: What medications do I have to take after Bariatric Surgery?
• A: After surgery you will be asked to take multivitamins, B12, and calcium every day. You may need monthly injections of B12 to help prevent iron deficiency. Additional iron may be prescribed during the post-operative course.
  
  
• Q: What will my diet be like after Bariatric Surgery?
• A: Since you will have a small stomach pouch, we advise that you eat about 2-4 ounces ( about ¼-1/2 cup of food at each meal). Three meals per day with a concentration on consuming protein food items first are recommended. You should drink water or non-calorie, non carbonated beverages between your meals. You will be asked to consume a protein supplement between meals for the first few weeks after surgery.
  
  
• Q: When do I stop taking my vitamin and mineral supplements?
• A: Never. It is critical that you take your supplements for the rest of your life. We will check your blood several times during the first year after surgery and every year for the rest of your life to make sure you are absorbing your nutrients.
  
  
• Q: How much weight will I lose after Bariatric Surgery?
• A: The average weight loss after surgery is from 50% to 75% of your excess body weight, which usually translates into 100 pounds for most patients. The majority of the weight loss is usually seen over the first 12 months after surgery.
  
  
• Q: Can I regain the weight I lose after surgery?
• A: YES! You can re-gain some of the weight you will lose after surgery. Your overall behavior and compliance with the diet and exercise will contribute to your long-term weight loss success. We emphasize that this surgical procedure is a “tool” which when used properly will produce good results. Long term follow-up with your Bariatric Team is essential. Once your weight stabilizes we will ask you to continue to visit us at least once per year.
  
  
• Q: Can I die as a result of having surgery?
• A: Yes you can. The national mortality rate for gastric bypass surgery is roughly 0.5% (about one in 200). In addition to the surgical procedure itself, your medical condition influences your risk.
  
  
• Q: Can I consume alcohol after surgery?
• A: We do not recommend that you continue to drink on a regular basis. Alcohol can cause marginal ulcers in your stomach pouch which could cause bleeding. It can also lead to severe nutrient deficiencies.
  
  
• Q: Can I use tobacco after surgery?
• A: We strongly recommend that you stop smoking before and after your surgery. Smoking may increase your chance of stomach ulcers. It also increases your risk of complications in the operating room.
  
  
• Q: How long does it take to schedule surgery?
• A: Usually several months are needed for evaluation, meetings, and various tests to be completed. We ask that you focus on weight loss during this time. We prefer that you begin to lose weight prior to surgery as you begin to change your eating and exercise behaviors in accordance with our dietitian’s and physical therapist’s recommendations. Your pre-operative weight loss will help your surgical team in performing your surgery as safely as possible.
  
  
• Q: What about pregnancy after surgery?
• A: We strongly recommend that you avoid pregnancy for 12- 18 months after surgery. Women may become more fertile as they lose weight. If you do become pregnant after surgery it is very important to take your recommended multivitamins. Consult your obstetrician and Bariatric team for additional recommendations.
  
  
• Q: Can I have my surgery done laparoscopically?
• A: Many of the gastric bypass procedures are done laparoscopically. However, for some an open incision may be better and safer. Your surgical team will discuss your options with you as well as the risks and benefits of a laparoscopic or an open approach.
  
  
• Q: Will I lose my hair after surgery?
• A: Some temporary hair thinning may occur during periods of rapid weight loss. This may begin several months after surgery. Your hair should re-grow when this rapid weight loss stabilizes. You can help this process by maintaining your protein intake and avoiding hair treatments and permanents at this time. Extra Biotin and Zinc supplements may also help.
  
  
• Q: What is dumping syndrome?
• A: Dumping results from the rapid passage of food into the small intestine and subsequent shift of fluid into the intestines. This can be caused by eating sweets, fried, fatty or greasy foods, eating too much at one meal or by drinking fluids with your meals. Symptoms may include flushed appearance, weakness, headache, sweating, cramping abdominal pain and eventually diarrhea. The best way to avoid dumping syndrome is to follow dietary guidelines.
  
  
• Q: Will I need plastic surgery?
• A: We recommend that you wait until your weight loss stabilizes before seeking plastic surgery. Your surgical team can discuss the likelihood of your needing plastic surgery with you before you have your surgery.
  
  
• Q: I have had a previous bariatric surgical procedure, but have regained weight. Can I have another procedure?
• A: “Redo” or reoperative surgery is possible, but not everyone should have it. The potential complications are higher than for the first-time bariatric surgery patient. We will assess your individual situation carefully and make recommendations to you. Since diet and exercise play a crucial role in your overall weight loss success, we will ask you to do your part as well.
  
  
• Q: What can/ should I do before surgery?
• A: Gastric Bypass by itself will not cure obesity. Initially you will lose weight, but long term success depends on lifestyle choices. Developing a healthy lifestyle before surgery is the first step in your weight loss journey. Attendance at nutrition, physiological, and physical therapy visits are mandatory. Participating in support groups is also asked of you.