Reasons to consider lap band surgery

Reasons to consider lap band surgeryObesity is a growing public health concern in this country with almost 40 percent of the adult population overweight, according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They estimate this growing trend costs consumers around 147 billion dollars a year in healthcare costs.

A person who fits the criteria of being morbidly obese will spend as much as 1,500 dollars more each year just managing the diseases that come with weight problems. Lap band surgery offers hope to those who need help getting out of the high risk group for illnesses that affect both their life expectancy and quality of life.

What is the Definition of Obese?

Obese may sound like a subjective term, but there are defining factors. Medically, obesity is measured based on body mass index, or BMI. BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared.

There are three classes of obesity.

  • Class one – BMI of 30 to 34.9
  • Class two – BMI of 35 -39.9
  • Class three – 40 or higher

The Complications of Obesity

Obesity affects more than just a person’s self-esteem. It puts you at risk for serious health problems that will shorten your life and change how you live. There are the obvious concerns like heart disease and type 2 diabetes, but when you are overweight, you are also at risk for:

  • High blood pressure
  • Sleep apnea
  • Cancer
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Infertility
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Liver disease
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Stroke

That doesn’t even take into account the mental stress that comes with weight management problems. Lap band surgery offers a practical solution to getting to a healthier weight.

The Lap Band Solution

Lap band surgery is part of a comprehensive treatment plan to help a patient reach and maintain a healthy weight. This puts them in a better place to avoid chronic health issues. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, or lap band surgery, uses an inflatable device to change the amount of food your stomach can hold.

Weight management is a balancing act. To lose weight, you must eat fewer calories than your body burns. Lap band surgery controls how much food you can eat at one time, forcing you to consume fewer calories. The surgery also changes hormone production, so you maintain your energy levels. This shift helps you keep the weight off.