Search for weigh loss surgery and you’ll come across a host of different procedures including laparascopic surgery, bariatric surgery and gastric bypass procedures.
Each type of procedure yields different weight loss results but one thing they all have in common is fast weight loss provided you’re prepared to make some long-term lifestyle diet and exercise changes.
What is Lap Band or Laparascopic Surgery?
Laparascopic surgery is one of the options for obese people
Laparascopic surgery involves operating on the abdominal organs via keyhole incisions. Long, narrow instruments and a camera are used to carry out the surgery which makes for a quicker and less painful operation compared to gastric band surgery.
With laparoscopic surgery you will endure less post-op pain, won’t need to stay in hospital very long and will be able to return to work, exercise and other normal activities pretty quickly.
Even More Advantages of Laparascopic Surgery
Compared to open surgery procedures, lap band surgery, laparascopic surgery is sometimes called, can result in:
- Less post-op pain
- Less tissue trauma
- Less scarring
- Less of a need to use painkillers after the operation
- Less time spent in hospital – some patients are able to go home the same day
- A faster return to work and everyday activities including physical exercise
There Are a Few Disadvantages
Just like any procedure, there are a few disadvantages to this type of surgery:
- It is not a one-size-fits-all type of surgery for everybody
So long as you approach a reputable and experienced surgeon, your surgery will be a success.
Complications of Laparoscopic Surgery
There’s not one operation that carries a zero complication risk. Your surgeon will ensure that you fully understand the potential risk of complications before you decide to have the operation.
Some of the complications that will be discussed include:
- Infection – this is always a surgical risk. Antibiotics and careful surgical techniques help to reduce the risk.
- Bleeding – all operations equal a little bleeding. By the end of the procedure the bleeding usually is stopped or stops. Very occasionally a major vessel can be injured which will lead to excessive bleeding.
- Pain – painkillers help to control post-surgery pain. However, lap band surgery has proven to be less painful that that experience after open surgery.
- Pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis – there’s a very slight risk of a clot forming in the deep veins of the leg after this type of operation. A clot can result in pulmonary embolism but blood thinners may be used to diminish such a risk.
- Anaesthetic – anaesthetic always carries small risks to patients such a complications with the heart or lungs.
All of these risks, however, are minimised by having an experienced surgeon operate on you. Your weight loss clinic will help you to find a surgeon in your area, whether you’re in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban.
The Cost of Lap Band Surgery
Sadly medical aids in SA don’t cover the costs of weight loss surgery. However, you can apply for medical finance that will help you with the expense. To find out if you qualify, follow the banner on this page or click here.