The Secret to Lap Band Success: Aftercare

Here in our offices at True Results, we often talk about the experience of having Lap Band procedure as a “journey.” That’s because it’s really the first step in a lifetime of new healthy lifestyle changes.  So how do you make sure you get to your destination? (We know you want to lose the weight and keep it off.) The surgery is just the first step. The real key is what you do after the procedure.

Yes, I know, I work in the aftercare program, so you might think I am biased. But I know the lap band surgeons and other medical staff here will back me up. The surgery is important, but getting the support you need to focus on nutrition, exercise and customized adjustments of your band is what’s absolutely critical. Not focusing on these things? It would be like buying a new car and never taking it out of the garage.

If you’re considering having the Lap Band procedure, here’s a few things you need to know.. These are all services available through the True Results aftercare program, which was designed by our medical director Dr. Paul O’Brien.

• Put a support system in place from day one. On the day you have the procedure, make your first appointment to come back in four weeks with the True Results aftercare program and your post-operative appointment with your surgeon.  Plan to come back regularly. Every four to six weeks is best during the first year after your surgery.

• At your appointments, communicate with the medical staff exactly how you’re feeling. How’s your health? Are you feeling satisfied when you eat? Are you getting the nutrition you need? Are you making healthy food choices? By sharing your experiences, your caregiver can help to design and tweak your weight loss plan as needed. Regular updates will be sent to your surgeon, or other healthcare specialists as needed.

• Take advantage of the education available to you. We have staff trained to work with you on everything from nutrition and exercise to the social changes that can happen with weight loss. Ask questions! 

• When you have an adjustment made to your Lap Band, review verbal and written instructions with your caregiver so you know what to expect and what to look for. It’s always a good reminder.

• If you have any questions between appointments, feeling any discomfort or trouble eating healthy food, don’t hesitate to call the office. Patients have access to our after-hours line as well as our offices during business hours.

• Come to our monthly lap band support group meetings. Connecting with other Lap Band patients and with knowledgeable healthcare staff is a great way to get information, share experiences and get encouragement. 

Aftercare at True Results is one of the truly special things about our program. I can tell that patients really appreciate the support, and all of us who work here love to see the progress they make. Here’s what one of our patients, Joanna, told us:

“True Results doesn’t forget about the patient after the surgery is completed. I can continue having the support and coming in for adjustments as I need and be educated.  They have nutritionists and exercise physiologists on site.  The fact that they want me to not only lose my weight but to sustain my weight is great. The aftercare program through True Results has really helped take my weight off and keep my weight off.”

- Nives Champion