Tips for a sucessful Lap Band surgery

A Beverly Hills bariatric surgeon has offered tips when considering a Lap Band procedure.

Surgeon Michael Feiz says pre-op preparation and post op lifestyle change are main aspects of a successful operation.

While there are inherent risks with every surgical procedure, the minimally invasive nature of Lap Band surgery makes it the least risky in comparison to weight loss surgeries such as the gastric bypass, says Feiz.

The surgery involves a removable, adjustable band placed on the stomach to temporarily create a smaller upper pouch, which restricts the amount of food a patient can consume resulting in weight loss. Also, the surgery is reversible and can be performed laparoscopically.

According to Feiz, lap band surgery is an ideal option for patients who can retrain themselves to change their eating habits.

Here are the four tips Feiz is offering for ensuring a sucessful Lap Band procedure:

* Healthy eating habits and exercise. Contrary to what some may believe, the Lap Band procedure is not an overnight fix for obesity. Patients who fail to abandon their habits of eating junk food and not exercising will find their initial weight loss rebound. A healthy diet is indispensable.

* Picking a well qualified and experienced surgeon. Patients should make sure their surgeon is board certified and has ample experience performing the procedure as well as involvement in the weight loss field on an academic level. This may include lecturing and conducting research and writings for peer reviewed journals. It will also be important to ask the surgeon about his/her success rate for the procedure.

* Multidisciplinary approach. Since obesity is such a complex condition, merely undergoing a weight loss procedure is typically not sufficient in ensuring the patient's success. A good surgeon takes a multi-doctor approach to the patient's treatment, which means patient consultations with dieticians, nutritionists, mental health specialists, and physicians. This will assure that all the bases are covered for the patient to embrace a new healthier life.

* Lifelong care. The surgery itself is just a part of the patient's transition into a healthier life. Finding a surgeon that offers post-op mentoring and guidance is instrumental in the patient's success. By being involved with support groups, nutritional classes, and fitness programs based on the surgeon's recommendations, patients are better equipped to embrace a healthy, more productive lifestyle free from complications.