Risks/Complications

Post-op after the LAP-BAND® System procedure, there is very low risk of nutritional deficiencies as long as patients eat a healthy diet.

Even though there are risks associated with the LAP-BAND® System weight loss surgical system, they are much less than with other types of weight loss surgical procedures.  Some of the risks may involve re-operation and or hospitalization. Most complications however are not serious. 

Gastric erosion and perforation or a tear in the stomach is one serious complication that can occur.  Other complications that might occur are:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Acid Reflux (Heart Burn)
• LAP-BAND® System Slippage
• Gastrointestinal obstruction and esophageal dilatation
• Gastric Prolapse (Protrusion of stomach through the band)
• Problems with the Access port
• Injury to the stomach and other internal organs
• Blood Clots and Phlebitis
• Hemorrhage (bleeding)
• Infection
• Pneumonia
• Scar Ring

These complications, if they do occur, can usually be corrected with minimal difficulty.