Five Celebrities Who Did a Lap Band (Weight Loss) Surgery

Being in the public eye is difficult, but it’s even more difficult when you’re a celebrity trying to lose weight. Unconventional weight loss journeys are still taboo in most countries, but lap band (gastric band) surgeries are on the rise. 

A lap band surgery is a non-modifying process that many celebrities turn to, mainly because of how effective and safe the operation is.

Five Celebs Who Underwent Lap Band (Weight Loss) Surgery 

Here are five celebrities who did the surgery and were completely honest about the procedure, even under heavy media scrutiny.

1. Fern Britton 

Known as a British presenter for “This Morning” show, Fern underwent weight loss surgery in late 2008. The celeb went through the procedure during a time when such surgeries were seen as cheating through weight loss journeys.

However, Fern Britton went through with it, and it worked impressively for her. Besides cutting down on unhealthy fat, the surgery also controlled her cholesterol content.

Following her successful surgery, Fern announced that she now feels fitter, mentally and physically – something she hadn’t experienced years before the procedure.

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2. Sharon Osborne 

The X Factor show British judge underwent lap band surgery openly and wasn’t ashamed to admit it on screen. However, Sharon took the band out after wearing it for over seven years. The celeb decided to reverse the procedure, as she claimed it wasn't needed anymore – thanks to her weight management.

3. Rex Ryan 

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This New York Jets head coach went forward with the lap band surgery in early 2010 following various health issues, including diabetes.

The surgery helped him lose up to 100lbs in over six months only, startling fans and media with his drastic transformation.

Rex Ryan has said the surgery has left him feeling better than ever and allows him to be more confident during the football season.

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4. Khaliah Ali 

Globally recognized as Muhammad Ali’s daughter, Khaliah came into the spotlight during her struggle with obesity in 2004. The celeb soon underwent a weight loss surgery, hoping to motivate and inspire those who followed her procedure as well.

5. Carnie Wilson 

The American singer and TV host surprised the world by posting pictures of her now healthy and slim physique on social media.

Carnie had her stomach stapled in 1999; however, the surgery didn’t impact her body much, as she gained double the weight after. A few years later, she decided to go forward with a lap band surgery, and fortunately, it worked
wonders for her this time.

Lap Band Surgery vs. Gastric Sleeve Procedure

Those struggling with obesity rarely have any fast alternatives to managing their weight. Instead, it’s either persevering through a time-consuming diet control journey or undergoing body-scarring liposuction surgery.

Lap band surgeries and gastric sleeve procedures are bringing hope to people. However, how are they any different from each other?

What Is a Lap Band Surgery?

This surgery is known as a minor invasive procedure for weight loss. The surgery involves doctors making a small incision in your upper abdomen. Next, a silicone ring (or band) with a balloon, in the end, is inserted and tied to the stomach, creating a small pouch. As a result, the pouch makes the patient feel fuller and satiated faster during meals, preventing them from over-eating.

The best thing about the surgery is that it is reversible and doesn’t leave any visible modifications to the body.

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What Is a Gastric Sleeve Procedure?

Similar to lap band surgery, this procedure is also done laparoscopically. However, the process is irreversible, which is a huge downside for many patients.

This surgery involves doctors making an incision into your stomach and taking out almost 80% of it. Next, you will have your stomach stapled and formed into a thin tube-like shape.  Those who undergo surgery cannot eat past a certain amount, unlike the lap band procedure, where you start to feel fuller.

Patients might also experience changes to their bodies due to hormonal fluctuations, which only trigger more steady weight loss.

Side Effects of a Weight Loss Surgery 

No two people are alike, especially when it comes to life-changing surgeries. What may work for you might be life-threatening for another. Both procedures come with side effects:

• Unexplainable fatigue and nausea
• Frequent dehydration
• Heartburn and indigestion
• Prolonged hormonal changes after six months post-op
• Hair thinning

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Conclusion 

Undergoing lap band surgery shouldn’t be a taboo topic up for debate, and the fore-mentioned celebs in this post challenge that openly.

In addition, these celebrities were honest and transparent about their weight loss surgery and continue inspiring others through the same struggles.

However, ensuring your body is capable of withstanding such procedures is essential. Talk to your GP to know if you are healthy enough to undergo such surgery. Before opting for it, you should also consider the possible pros and cons of a lap band surgery.