Can I use a straw to drink water. I was banded t 18th. can i use one now, if not now can i later. I just drink more when i use a straw. Have you hurt anything bad about using one??? I know it is silly.

It's not a silly question!

Unfortunately, drinking with a straw with the band is a no-no. When you drink through a straw you tend to take in a lot of air along with the liquid. Air in the stomach causes burping, and burping isn't a good thing, especially when you're first banded. The stitches around the band have to heal, and burping can cause the stitches to move more than they should.

Hmmm I was told differently and have been using a straw since right after surgery when the nurses gave me one.

You were misinformed. Do a Google search of "using a straw with lap band" and see what you turn up. Also call your surgeon and ask him/her.

I was also told to stay away from using straws because of the gas in can cause

That what I thought. It was because the gas, but i didnt remember. I guess i will be ok, guess i was hoping i was wrong. I go back to see by doctor dec 1st. I will ask, anyways. It makes sense. Thanks for your responses.

Yep definately told no straw with lap band. Too much excess air in pouch, can cause stretching. Good luck.

Check some of the other posts. Many have used straws and it is ok. Every doctor is different. Some on here like to think they know it all.

I was also told no straw, but as has already been said, every doctor is different. Can you call the clinic where you were banded ?

I think it comes down to the surgeons personal opinion. I asked him about drinking with a straw he said " Jill if drinking with a straw gets the water down then drink with a straw" He said that he never heard of side effects of drinking with a straw.

I get so much more water in now. I don't even realize when I have drank 32 ounces...