Lap-Band® Surgery

Lap-Band®: A Minimally Invasive Solution for Weight Loss

Lap-Band surgery, also called Adjustable Gastric Banding, helps people who are obese lose weight by reducing the size of their stomachs.

This minimally invasive procedure involves placing a silicone device, known as the Lap-Band, around the top portion of the stomach.

Unlike other bariatric surgeries, the Lap-Band system is adjustable and customizable to suit each patient's needs. Once placed, the size of the device can be adjusted for each patient.

What is the Lap-Band?

The Lap-Band is a silicone medical device that is placed around the upper portion of the stomach, creating a small pouch above it and a larger pouch below.

This smaller pouch limits the amount of food that can be comfortably consumed, effectively reducing the stomach's capacity.

The device comes with tubes and a discreetly placed port device under the skin of the belly.

After the patient has recovered from the surgery, this port becomes instrumental in accessing and modifying the inflation levels of the Lap-Band.

A notable advantage of Lap-Band surgery is its reversibility.

The device can be removed laparoscopically at any time, offering patients peace of mind.

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Benefits of Lap-Band® Surgery

Significant Weight Loss

Lap-Band surgery functions as a resistance mechanism. It requires patients to adopt healthier eating habits by encouraging them to chew their food more thoroughly and consume meals at a slower pace.

This behavioral shift results in the prolongation of mealtime, taking about 15-20 minutes to finish a meal.

This helps the body regulate the natural hormonal and neurological messaging system, which communicates a sense of fullness to the brain after small amounts of food.

Over time, this leads to significant weight loss.

Minimally Invasive

Laparoscopic techniques are used for Lap-Band surgery, making it a minimally invasive procedure.

This means:

Shorter recovery times
Reduced pain
A lower risk of complications compared to traditional open surgeries

Customizable Post-Surgery

The Lap-Band can be adjusted to meet individual needs, allowing for fine-tuning of weight loss efforts.

This is done by removing or adding saline fluid to the device through the access port. This can be done by a doctor at any time after the placement surgery.

This adaptability is particularly valuable for patients who may require different levels of restriction over time.

Reversibility

If necessary, the Lap-Band can be removed laparoscopically at any time without major surgery.

This feature provides patients with flexibility and peace of mind, knowing that this procedure provides less risk for a permanent adjustment.

Recovery from Lap-Band Surgery

Recovery from Lap-Band surgery is generally quick, with most patients able to return to their daily activities within a few days to a week.

However, much like all bariatric surgeries, the post-operative guidelines are critical to a successful surgery and seamless recovery. This may include diet changes and gradual increases in physical activity.

Regular follow-up appointments are also important to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the Lap-Band.

Your Weight Loss Experts

The Lap-Band offers a customizable and minimally invasive solution for individuals seeking effective weight loss.

Whether you're considering Lap-Band surgery for the first time or exploring revision options, this procedure can help you achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health. Find a Bariatric Surgeon near you. 

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Discover Other Treatment Options

Lap-Band Surgery with Gastric Plication

Lap-Band surgery with plication is an innovative variation of the Lap-Band procedure.

It involves the addition of gastric plication, a technique where the surgeon folds the stomach tissue in on itself and is stitched to create a smaller pouch for the stomach.

This enhances the restrictive effect of the Lap-Band, further promoting the feeling of fullness and aiding in weight loss.

While this option is not yet FDA-approved for the Lap-Band, research has shown promising results.

Lap-Band Over Bypass Revision

For individuals who have undergone a Gastric Bypass that failed over time and resulted in significant weight regain, Lap-Band surgery offers an option to revise.

Although this procedure is not currently FDA-approved for the Lap-Band, multiple studies have demonstrated its effectiveness.

CHRISTUS bariatric surgeons may provide this innovative procedure on a case-by-case basis.

Patients who opt for Lap-Band surgery over bypass revision can expect to lose about two-thirds of the weight they have regained and maintain that weight loss for as long as five years in some studies.

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