Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

Q: How long before I can have it done?

A: There is an assessment program to go through first. You need to see a dietician, physician/gastroenterologist, 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.

Q: Does it stay there forever?

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.

Q: What happens if I get pregnant?

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.

Q: Will the band get in the way if I become pregnant?

A: No, it is placed well away from where the uterus expands when you are pregnant.

Q: Can you feel the port.

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.

Q: Is it done with keyhole surgery?

A: Yes, but (as with any surgery) there is always the slight chance that it may have to be done as an open operation.

Q: How quickly will I lose the weight?

A: Approximately 1/2 – 2 kg per week. This rate may slow a little after some time.

Q: How much weight will I lose?

A: The average weight lost is HALF OF YOUR EXCESS WEIGHT. Some people lose more, some people lose less.

Q: Do I have to go into hospital to have the band adjusted?

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.

Q: Can I still eat all the things I eat now?

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.

Q: Will I need to take vitamins supplements?

A: Yes, you are advised to take vitamin supplements. Your surgeon or the team will advise you on this.

Q: How much overweight do I have to be to have this done.

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.

Q: Do I still need to exercise?

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.

Q: How long do I spend in hospital?

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.

Q: How long do I need off work?

A: Usually two weeks, most of the first week in hospital and the second week at home.

Q: Can I still eat out at restaurants?

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.

Q: What happens to the loose skin when I have lost the weight.

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.

Q: Is there a lot of pain after the surgery?

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.