The following is a transcript of a doctor “Beth” talking about the benefits that she has seen firsthand from patients of hers that have become successes of the Realize Lap Band System.
Physiologically and psychologically it is difficult for patients to not just lose the weight but keep the weight off. Patients get into a diet mentality that they have to eat off a list of foods or they have to have three weeks worth of sample menus. What we want to do with the band is move patients away from that diet mentality and just teach them how to eat healthy.
When patients present to me for surgery, certainly they have had years of failed diet attempts. They come to me and they feel like a failure. It’s not uncommon for them to come to me and say “Beth. I am embarrassed to be here. I am embarrassed that I actually have to do something so drastic to help me gain control over my eating habits.” What I tell patients is that they did not fail the diet, the diet failed them. So presuming the band what we try to teach them is how to utilize this tool and how to make good food choices, as well as how to adopt healthy eating practices.
When patients come to see me post-operatively, and after they have had their first fill they say “Beth this is the first time I have felt full. I cannot remember a time when I was able to leave a table and feel satisfied.” It is a very welcoming feeling to these patients. They almost feel like they have a weight lifted off of their shoulders. They truly are grateful that they have this feeling of satisfaction. Patients experience multiple physical and emotional benefits after surgery. It is a professional privilege to watch these patients transform right before your eyes.
We have seen an improvement in blood sugar, blood pressure and sleep apnea. We find patients have more confidence. Their relationships start to grow. They are able to pursue their dream job. That is something they did not have the confidence to do prior to surgery. We see patients are travelling c omfortably. They are going to amusement parks. They are getting on a plane and being able to fly comfortably. So watching the transformation of these patients is a wonderful experience.