Although it's normal to be nervous, the day of your weight loss surgery is really an exciting day because it's a major milestone on your road to a healthier, happier life. Here is a general overview of how to get ready for your Lap Band® System surgery, and what to expect that day.
Preparing for Surgery
Before your surgery, your surgeon will discuss your procedure in detail with you. It is also very important to discuss your overall health and your health history. You need to let your surgeon know if you have any current/past health conditions, are allergic to any drugs, or have ever had a bad reaction to anesthesia. In addition, make a list of all the medications that you take, including aspirin, injections, all prescription and over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, vitamins, and recreational drugs, and give it to your surgeon.
Your doctor may also want you to meet with other medical experts, such as a dietitian and/or psychologist, to help you understand what will happen during and after the Lap Band® System surgery process. They will help you make certain that you are mentally and emotionally prepared for surgery and your new life with the Lap Band® System. Additionally, you will have a number of tests before your surgery to evaluate your general state of health.
On the day before your procedure, you will need to follow specific instructions to ensure all goes well the next day. Your surgeon and medical team will provide you with a complete list of instructions on how to prepare for the surgery. Here are two general guidelines:
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. Your stomach must be empty for surgery to minimize risks during the operation.
- Ask a friend or a family member to be at the hospital with you for comfort and support and to drive you home after the surgery. You may also want him or her to help you get settled at home.
What to Expect on Surgery Day
Please note that although this experience is typical, the routine at your healthcare facility may be different. You will be admitted to the hospital either the day before, or on the morning of your surgery. You may be in the operating room for two or three hours, but the actual procedure typically takes about one hour. Then you will spend a few hours in the recovery room. Once the anesthesia has worn off, you may feel some pain or discomfort, which can usually be treated with ordinary pain relievers. The hospital staff will help you get out of bed and start moving as soon as possible to help prevent blood clots, respiratory problems, and bedsores.
On the day after the surgery, you will likely have an X-ray. This allows your health team to see that the Lap Band® System is in the right place and that the new stomach outlet is open. You may be asked to swallow a liquid that can be seen on X-ray.
For Lap Band® System surgery, hospitalization is usually less than 24 hours. The hospital stay may be longer if there are complications or if the surgeon has to change to an "open" surgical procedure.
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