LAP BAND ADJUSTMENTS (FILLS)

What is a Lap Band Fill?

The Lap-Band System is a silicone ring designed to create a stomach pouch that creates a sense of fullness when you eat. The size of the band is adjustable by filling it with saline (like a bike tire is filled with air). This is done through the access port which is implanted under the skin, and is almost always done in the office using local anesthetic and a special needle.

For patients whose lap band (or other brand) system was placed by another surgeon (or in another country), patients will need to sign an informed consent document that acknowledges that Dr. Maccabee cannot take responsibility for the function or integrity of the system (although very unusual it is possible for systems to leak or for the port to “flip” and be inaccessible). Dr. Maccabee has adjusted Lap Band and Realize systems on patients who had their surgery in the USA, Mexico, Europe and Jordan.

Preparing for a Fill

• Make sure you are properly hydrated on the day of your fill (you should be drinking water every day, but especially important the day before a fill)
• Do not eat any solid food for 6 hours before your fill (your stomach should be completely empty).
• Plan to remain around the my office for a few hours after a fill to make sure you feel okay with the adjustment. Shopping in town is a good plan.
• After a fill, limit eating to a full liquid diet for 72 hours, then to soft foods for a day, before resuming a solid food diet. You will receive a sheet with specific instructions at the time of your fill.

The First Fill

During your first visit Dr. Maccabee will peform a complete history and physical exam, and have an extended discussion about how the lap band system works and strategies for successful weight loss. During your exam, it is also important to talk about any concerns or problems you may have in regards to the Lap Band, including eating habits, diet and nutrition, physical activity, and other health issues.

Following the Lap-Band Surgery, the band is usually left empty or only partially inflated. There is usually swelling associated with surgery that takes 4-8 weeks to resolve. Patients usually begin to notice larger portion sizes and less weight loss when that happens.

Lap Band Fills for established patients

Most patients lose the sense of early satiety after eating when their band needs adjustment. You may not feel any restriction to eating at all. This is quite normal and not an emergency, only a warning that it is time to have the band adjusted again. You may feel that you can eat anything and everything. Try to focus on a high-protein, low-calorie diet during these periods.

During your appointment Dr. Maccabee will reinforce good eating habits and strategies for weight loss success. He may recommend consultation with a nutritionist or dietician.

A fill appointment usually takes about 15 minutes, sometimes longer. Patients are given specific counseling afterwards, and are asked to remain near the office for at least one hour following an adjustment to make sure that it is appropriate.