To be an ideal candidate for lap band surgery you should be in the region of 100 pounds overweight and also be between 18 and 60 years of age. Lapband surgery can be a very successful method for weight loss especially in those considered obese, but like all kinds of surgical procedures there are pros and cons to be weighed up, excuse the pun.

The first and most obvious pro for lap band surgery is weight loss. This is obviously no surprise as that is what this procedure is designed for. The results can range from a cosmetic angle, simply improving the appearance of the individual but also in many cases the improvement from a health point of view is even more critical, indeed lap band surgery in some cases can be considered life saving.

This is most often seen in cases where patients are severely overweight or indeed morbidly obese. All the side affects and related illnesses that are caused by being overweight or obese can be reduced or even cured by having lapband surgery. In cases this can even include the eradication of serious illnesses like diabetes. This in turn can lead to a longer and happier life.

Another pro to lapband is the change in lifestyle it can give you. If the surgery is successful and you follow your doctors instruction, drastic weight loss is virtually guaranteed. With this loss in weight comes a whole new approach to life. This can range from simple things like being able to walk further to more drastic changes like running, exercise and even sports. Also because the person feels better about themselves they will find a whole new confidence.

Another big plus for lap band over other more drastic surgery option is that your recovery time is very quick. Because there is no actual removal of any of the stomach, this means that you can recover from the surgery very quickly, quite often in less than a day. Associated with this is also the fact that because it is a simple operation there is far less risk than say gastric bypass surgery.

In addition to the ease of the operation it is also very easily adjusted. Let's face we are all different and so will all react to the surgery differently too. If things are going to plan it is quite simple to pop in to see the surgeon and the lap band can be altered, loosened or tightened without the need for surgery.

One last upside of the surgery itself is that it is completely reversible. AS mentioned earlier because there is no actual removal, the band can simply be removed should this be necessary. This does require surgery but again is a very simple procedure with a lot less risk than say bypass.

On the downside of things there is actually very little. One of the biggest downsides is the actual eligibility of patients. Even if you are very overweight you are not guaranteed to be eligible. Most doctors will tell you that to evn be considered then your BMI should be at least 40. You also must be otherwise health and committed to the follow up regime to lose the weight.

Lastly the cost can be very prohibitive. Now it can be covered by health insurance provided the operation is strictly on health grounds. In general the op can cost anywhere from 12 to 20 thousand dollars. If this is out of your price range then look for payment plans or deals in your area.

So if you are eligible and can either afford it or have insurance that will cover the cost is seems quite obvious that lap band surgery can be a real life changing experience both from an emotional and health point of view.

Caroline Bourke