How dangerous is lap band surgery and what is the recovery time ?

Hi Anon,

Thank you for sharing your question with the EmpowHER communitiy.

The Lap-Band surgery is when you have an adjustable band placed around the top part of the stomach to restrict food intake. There are risks with any surgery, but the risk for complications after surgery is where the issue is the lap band. Compared to the other weight loss surgeries, Lap Band surgery is performed in the shortest amount of time and has a very low intraoperative (during surgery) complication rate

After surgery is when the risks factor increases. One major risk is that the band can deteriorate after a year or two. The other big risk is that it can cause perforation in your intestinal track causing acid and fecal matter to leak into your abdomen.

As for recovery time, it's going to be different for each person. But generally, it will be anywhere from 2 - 6 weeks.

If you go have a consultation, take a family member with you so you can compare the risks with the benefits.

Be well,
~Gillette