Adjustments/Fill-Sessions and Follow Ups

A gastric band adjustment (or fill) is a regularly scheduled appointment with a TLBC nurse to help the band work effectively. Using a port attached to the band, the nurse “fills” or “de-fills” the band with a saline solution via a needle and syringe, tightening or loosening as needed. It’s a simple and painless procedure, done in just a few minutes.

The number of adjustments required to find just the right restriction varies from patient to patient, though most patients find a comfortable level after three or four post-op visits. The band can also be adjusted in case of illness or pregnancy, to allow greater food consumption.

We encourage you to come in every six months during your first year for a follow-up, a weigh-in (to monitor excess weight loss), and to discuss your progress and concerns. You can schedule these appointments with our fill nurse at (416) 920 4480 or 1 800 409 8151 (ext 337).

Eating and Nutrition

After weight loss surgery, you’ll need to learn how to eat differently. Chewing properly, eating smaller meals regularly, and selecting the right kinds of food are important to success with the gastric band. We have a dedicated nutritionist on staff to make sure that you’re staying on track.

In addition to helping you stay on track and helping you learn new eating habits, we also recommend the BariatrX Essentials brand of bariatric meals, from Metagenics. These are low-calorie supplements in a powdered beverage form. They’re vitamin rich, high quality, and great tasting, and an ideal staple for your post-op diet.

Coaching

As part of the post-operative process, we recommend that you return for coaching sessions. Working together with one of our post-op team members, coaching sessions help identify your goals, clarify the important issues in your life and in your battle against excess weight, and empower your to meet those goals and control those issues. Our coaching program is designed to help establish (and meet) realistic goals and reduce stress as you adjust to life with the band.

Fitness and Physical Activity

Physical activity is an important piece to any weight loss puzzle. Not only does it give you a mental boost, it helps to keep your muscles active, and this is important for their preservation. With gradual weight loss and improved eating habits, your body will look to burning excess fat or muscle tissue for energy. If your muscles are being used, it tells your body that they’re not for energy, and your body will burn the fat, instead.

At TLBC, we explore ways to get your body moving without jumping straight into a strict exercise program. Join us for an afternoon walk or a night out at the bowling alley. We even feature exclusive dance classes for our Bandsters throughout the year. Remember, as little as twenty minutes of aerobic activity will keep you in shape, and keep your body burning fat.

Special Events

TLBC regularly hosts events for Bandsters, including guest speakers and annual social events. You’ll be able to sit in on lectures from experts in weight loss medicine and psychology, as well as speakers giving advice on living healthy and living with the LaparoscopicBAND.