How long does it take to recover from the lap band surgery?

Recovery is nearly the same as gastric sleeve. Big difference in results though. I agree with Dr. Pleatman. Do not have a lap band or realize band placed. Find an experience surgeon and discuss having a gastric sleeve.

Lap band is generally done as a same day surgery meaning you will go home the same day on a clear liquid diet.  Most patients do not use the pain meds they are send home with.  You should be able to return to work in 5 to 7 days.  

I disagree somewhat with the other doctors.  It's true that it's outpatient surgery and you will be generally go home the same day.  It's also true that you will be back to your usual activities in about a week.  Unfortunately, after that, there is a greater than 50% chance that you will suffer with poor weight loss, frequent vomiting, and general unhappiness for between 2 and 10 years, after which you will realize that the band is not working for you, and you will decide to have it removed.  At least that's been my experience with the 120 patients I put this device in before I realized that it was a bad idea.Do a bit of research and you will find out that gastric banding has been abandoned by most surgeons in the world.  So you'd better hurry up and get yours before they are pulled from the market!

You will be up walking after surgery - and drinking easily.  By the next day taking tylenol or advil for pain and by the third day have some minor discomfort.