Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
A: There is an assessment program to go through first. You need to see a dietician, physician, psychiatrist and usually a respiratory physician to make sure you don't have sleep apnoea. These appointments take 3 to 6 weeks, then after seeing Mr Michell again, your surgery can be arranged.
A: Yes. Because the band gives you a smaller stomach pouch, you become full with much less food. If you have the band out you will return to eating large amounts and you will regain the weight.
A: As the pregnancy progresses, the band can be loosened to allow you to eat more and also to help with your eating when you are breast feeding.
A: No, it is placed well away from where the uterus expands when you are pregnant.
A: Not usually. Sometimes, when you have lost the weight you can feel the port if you push quite hard. Occasionally, when you have lost the weight it becomes a bit uncomfortable when lying on your side. This can be fixed by a day surgery visit with a few hours in hospital for it to be moved.
A: Yes, but (as with any surgery) there is always the slight chance that it may have to be done as an open operation.
A: Approximately 1/2 – 2 kg per week. This rate may slow a little after some time.
A: The average weight lost is HALF OF YOUR EXCESS WEIGHT. Some people lose more, some people lose less.
A: No, the adjustments are usually done in Mr Michell's rooms using a local anaesthetic. Occasionally, if the port has moved, the adjustment needs to be done in the x-ray department.
A: Most foods, you will still be able to eat. Red meat is often a problem, but that can be replaced by using minced meat. Fresh white bread can also be a problem and some people have trouble with rice or pasta or some other foods but we are here to help you with these food choices and there are many alternatives that can be eaten. Our dietician is also available after surgery to help with any food problems.
A: Yes, you are advised to take vitamin supplements. Your surgeon or the team will advise you on this.
A: You need to be 30 to 40 kg overweight before surgery can be considered. The overweight needs to outweigh the risk of doing any surgery. Serious health conditions can also be taken into account as well.
A: Most definitely. Without exercise, the weight loss can be quite slow. If you get pain with exercise, as the weight comes off, you will find it easier. You don't have to do a huge amount of exercise to make it beneficial either. Exercise will benefit your general health as well. We recommend that you exercise for at least 30 minutes per day, 4 days per week.
A: Usually 3 – 4 days. Operation the first day. Just water and an x-ray to check that everything is OK the second day. Pureed or strained food for two days to make sure all is OK and then home.
A: Usually two weeks, most of the first week in hospital and the second week at home.
A: Yes. With the smaller stomach pouch you will need to order an entrée size meal and maybe a desert. Some people pick food from their partners plate.
A: Not everyone has a problem with loose skin. If you do find this to be a problem, we can discuss the options, including referral to a plastic surgeon.
A: Not usually. Some people experience some shoulder tip pain as a result of the laparoscopy, but the operation usually results in just a degree of discomfort.