A band adjustment is an in-office procedure where the amount of fluid in your band is adjusted to make it tighter or looser in order to make the new stomach opening the right size to let you gradually lose weight (an ideal fill level varies from person to person). You should still be able to eat enough to get the nutrients that you need, while still reducing the overall amount you can actually eat.
Your First Adjustment
At first, the LAP-BAND® will be empty or only partially inflated. This gives your body time to get accustomed to your LAP-BAND ® during the first few weeks. Your first adjustment will usually take place after six weeks from surgery (the exact time will vary from patient to patient).
The adjustment is a simple process: The access port underneath the skin of your abdomen is located by feeling for it on the surface of your skin. A fine needle is inserted into the access port (you may feel a pricking sensation similar to when you give blood) and sterile saline fluid is added to your LAP-BAND®.
Future adjustments
During the first year, most patients get between five and eight adjustments (adding or removing fluid). Once you reach your goal weight, your adjustments usually become less frequent.
Fluoroscopy assisted band adjustments
Gastric Band adjustments can also be performed under fluoroscopy (X-Ray)!
What are the benefits?
The doctor can view the adjustment in real-time as it’s being performed, which results in a more accurate adjustment.
A more accurate adjustment equates to maximum restriction without being too tight, hence better weight loss.
Under fluoroscopy, the port can also be seen, allowing easier access to it.
While performing the adjustment, the doctor can evaluate the band, stomach, and esophagus to make sure nothing has changed internally since the day of your surgery.
The fluoroscopy will allow us to spot any potential problems before they develop into complications
There is a very good chance that your insurance could allow your future adjustments to be performed under fluoroscopy! Consult your physician and patient care coordinator to learn more!