Lifestyle Changes after LAP-BAND®
Los Angeles, California
LAP-BAND® surgery is not a quick weight loss solution. Rather, the LAP-BAND procedure is one step in a lifelong journey that begins with lifestyle changes.
Bariatric surgeon Dr. Carson Liu and his professional, compassionate weight loss support team understand the physical and emotional tolls of obesity. Dr. Liu is board-certified in General surgery and has performed more than 2,600 bariatric surgeries to help patients end this struggle. He will work closely with you to customize a treatment plan that achieves your best results.
Post-Surgery Support
After a short hospital stay and a brief at-home recuperation, you can return to your normal activities, feeling better, more energized and more confident about the future. Dr. Liu and his team will assist you with regular follow up appointments at Dr. Liu’s Los Angeles offices and the post-surgery support you need to remain committed to your new diet and exercise plan.
Lifestyle Changes After LAP-BAND® Surgery
Diet
Your gastrointestinal tract changes after LAP-BAND® surgery, because your new stomach can hold just four to six ounces of food at one time. To achieve excellent nutrition, follow Dr. Liu’s post-surgical instructions:
- Immediately after surgery, you will be restricted to a clear liquid diet
- A modified full liquid diet during the first weeks of recovery allows protein shakes, soup, baby food and sugar-free gelatin
- Soon, you will graduate to eating proteins, vegetables and salads
Dr. Liu’s tips for success with your new diet include:
- Bread, potatoes and starchy vegetables are not permitted
- Caffeine or carbonated beverages are off limits for three months
- Consume fifty to sixty grams of protein daily
- Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, fried foods, foods with seeds, meats like steak and chops
- Limit snacking and sugary foods
- Drink fluids only when you are not eating
Returning to Work
Each patient recovers differently after LAP-BAND®. Most patients feel well enough to return to work within one to three weeks. Your ability to return to work and normal daily activities will be governed by your overall physical condition, the type of activity, and other factors unique to you. Dr. Liu will answer your LAP-BAND® recovery questions thoroughly during scheduled follow up visits, and can help you decide when to return to work.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy places great demands on the female body. Female patients who are pregnant or wish to become pregnant should not undergo LAP-BAND® surgery. However, because the LAP-BAND® procedure is reversible, the device can be removed if necessary. When the LAP-BAND® device is removed, weight gain will occur.
Other Lifestyle Changes after LAP-BAND®
Following the LAP-BAND® procedure, you will not be able to swallow capsules, irregularly shaped pills or pills the size of aspirin or larger. Dr. Liu will go over all your medications and make adjustments as necessary.
You may find you need additional emotional support as you adjust to your new lifestyle. Dr. Liu offers several weight loss support groups to assist you on your journey toward a healthier you.
Dr. Liu’s team will schedule regular follow up visits after surgery. He will conduct blood tests to check for nutritional deficiencies, examine your overall health, and give you plenty of time to discuss any support issues that might affect your success.
Please contact Dr. Carson Liu, gastrointestinal and bariatric surgeon in Los Angeles, California, to learn more about LAP-BAND®.
