LAP-Band and Diabetes
I have had a successful LAP-Band surgery but have NEVER been diabetic. I have a friend who has considered surgery but was advised by the surgeons to have the Gastric Bypass surgery. My friend is interested in WLS but does NOT want the Gastric Bypass as she does not like the idea of cutting any organs. I am wondering if anyone with diabetes has had the LAP-Band and how well it worked. Do you still have diabetes? If so, has there been improvement? Thanks!
on 7/27/15 3:30 pm
Hi. Research has shown that nearly immediately there is a change in a diabetic's blood glucose following gastric bypass surgery. This does not hold true for gastric banding. However, if the gastric band is placed well and the individual follows the rules very precisely, dietary changes may (the operative word here is MAY) control blood glucose levels. This is not a guarantee and it is not due to anything other than the person's change in diet- so there is a great potential for problems there. Sticking to the gastric banding routine is challenging-especially in the long run. Therefore, compliance with the band rules AND the absence (post band installation) of the physiologic effects of reducing blood sugar with the band but PRESENT in many cases with bypass makes the band NOT an intervention for diabetes control. Hope this helps. Better to have her consult with a surgeon so that all of her questions will be answered. WLS is a commitment, regardless of the type. Good luck!