Weight Loss Surgery Blog

Not losing weight? Time for a Lap band adjustment?

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If you have a LAP-BAND or REALIZE Band, and you aren't losing weight, there are a lot of things you should check before saying it didn't work for you. This is the final post in a series of five "adjustment" topics.

Do you need a band adjustment?

All of the previous articles in the series have pointed out behaviors on the part of the person, but this post talks about adjusting the Lap band. Why focus the first 80% on the person and not the Lap band? Because the Lap band is only a tool and a small part of your overall success. It can be a powerful weight loss tool if you use it right, but you must use it correctly for it to be powerful.

You may need a band adjustment if:

1. You honestly feel like you are making healthy food choices in appropriate portion size, getting hungry between meals.
2. You can still eat white bread, fibrous vegetables and large portions, without feeling satiety.
3. You are struggling to lose weight. 
4. You are gaining weight despite eating right, exercising and having a good mind set.

Remember that your Lap Band or Realize Band is adjustable - that's probably one of the reasons you chose it - and that getting your custom fit may take quite a few visits and adjustments before it's at the optimal fill level for you.

You may need your band loosened if:

1. You can't get fluids down.
2. You are vomiting.
3. You have frequent reflux or heartburn at night.

Finally, sometimes an adjustment cannot wait until your next appointment. See your healthcare provider immediately (or call 911) if:

1. You have a squeezing, tightness or heaviness in your chest, especially if the discomfort spreads to your shoulder, arm or jaw or is accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, irregular or fast heartbeat or nausea.  These could be symptoms of a heart attack.
2. If your symptoms are triggered by exercise.
3. If you're pain localizes to your right side, especially if you also have nausea or fever.
4. If you throw up vomit that looks like black sand or coffee grounds or if your stool is black, deep or bright red, these are signs of bleeding and need immediate attention. (Note: Iron supplements, Pepto-Bismal or other medications with bismuth will turn your stool black.)
5. If you have severe pain.

Ideally, when your band is properly adjusted you should lose 1-2 pounds per week. If you're not losing weight, be sure to review our Lap Band adjustment check-list to see what you can change to improve your results.

If you are interested in weight loss surgery and would like more information, please download our free kit of weight loss surgery materials today.