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Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band) is a weight-loss surgery that involves placing a silicone band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch, limiting food intake and promoting satiety.
Preparation: Before surgery, patients typically attend a pre-assessment to evaluate health and discuss medications. Following fasting instructions and arranging transportation home post-procedure is important, as driving immediately after surgery is not advisable.
Procedure: Under general anaesthesia, the surgeon makes small incisions to insert the laparoscopic instruments and places the adjustable band around the upper stomach, creating a small pouch with a narrow opening to the lower stomach. The procedure usually lasts about 1 to 2 hours.
Recovery: Post-surgery, patients may experience some pain and swelling, managed with prescribed painkillers. A liquid diet is typically followed for the first few weeks, progressing to solid foods as tolerated. Full recovery varies per individual but generally ranges from a few weeks to several months, with adherence to dietary guidelines crucial for optimal outcomes.
