REALIZE® Band
The REALIZE® Band procedure is a minimally invasive, reversible weight loss surgery option offered at our St. Louis-area practice. It results in less post-operative pain and quicker recovery time than other methods, and there is no cutting or stapling of the stomach. The REALIZE® Band creates a smaller stomach chamber, allowing for less food intake and an earlier feeling of fullness.
REALIZE® Band Surgery
With REALIZE® Band Surgery, patients can lose up to 1 to 2 pounds a week and gain control of their appetites. This leads not only to significant weight loss among morbidly obese patients, but less risk of developing serious health conditions stemming from obesity. The REALIZE® Band can be adjusted to allow more or less food intake over time.
Procedure
By performing REALIZE® Band surgery laparascopically, Dr. Van L. Wagner can give you effective weight loss surgery with less scarring and quicker recovery times than traditional methods. The REALIZE® Band is placed around the upper portion of the stomach to create a smaller stomach pouch. Food intake is thereby greatly reduced and you will feel full much sooner than usual. The band can be adjusted over time for you to be able to eat more or less food during a meal.
Recovery
Patients can typically expect some pain and discomfort in the days following REALIZE® Band surgery; but this can be alleviated with medication. Follow-up visits will be necessary to make sure you are adjusting well to the new dietary requirements.
Aftercare
One of the most common complaints of bariatric surgery patients is the lack of follow-up care. However, this is not the case at Heart of America Bariatrics, LLC. Dr. Wagner believes that, in order for your surgery to be successful, you need continued support and care throughout the recovery and weight loss process. That’s why his aftercare program is so thorough – and so highly regarded by his patients.
Some surgeons seem to forget about you after you leave the operating room. But Dr. Wagner knows that surgery is just the first step in a long journey to health. His thorough, respectful, and sensitive approach to your physical and emotional well-being makes him one of the most sough-after bariatric surgeons in the country.
Contact Heart of America Bariatrics for more information, or to schedule a consultation.