Preparing for Lap Band Fill

Preparing for a Lap Band Fill

There are several steps you can do to increase the likelihood of a good fill outcome:

• Make sure you are properly hydrated on the day of your fill (you should be drinking Water every day, but especially important in the 2 to 3 days before a fill)
• Do not eat a big, late night dinner the night before a fill (it sometimes takes 12 hours for all food to move through the stomach pouch)
• Do not eat any solid foods for at least 6 hours before the fill (the stomach pouch should be completely empty for a fill)
• Avoid COLD fluids for an hour before the fill (cold can temporarily shrink the stoma)
• Avoid getting a fill either during or a few days before your menstrual period (fluid retention affects fill level)
• If possible, hang around the doctor's office for a few hours after a fill to make sure you feel okay with the adjustment
• If traveling from out of town, plan on staying in the area at least overnight, just in case there is a problem with the amount of fill
• After a fill, limit eating to a full liquid diet for 24 hours, then to soft foods for a day, before resuming a solid food diet (to help the stoma rest and heal)

The above guidelines are some of the recommendations that will help achieve a good fluoroscopy and good fill level. Make sure you talk to your doctor about any other specific preparations you should make before a fill appointment. If you are having any trouble with the Lap Band, it may be best not to get a fill at this time.

During your exam, it is also important to talk about any concerns or problems you may have in regards to the Lap Band, including eating habits, diet and nutrition, physical activity, and other health issues

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