When considering any type of surgery, it is very important that you select a fully qualified and experienced surgeon. It is Allergan's policy to follow surgical selection and training guidelines established by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES). The LAP-BAND^® Adjustable Gastric Banding System surgeon certification requirements include:

• Advanced laparoscopic skills and experience
• Completion of at least 25 bariatric (weight-loss surgery) procedures or completion of a comprehensive bariatric surgery course that covers patient selection, surgery options, peri-operative care, and long-term management, such as those provided by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
• Participation in an Allergan-sponsored or -authorized comprehensive workshop
• Commitment and ability to make the LAP-BAND^® System a significant component of a multidisciplinary bariatric practice providing long-term patient support and follow-up
• Comprehensive bariatric patient support program that includes appropriate hospital facilities, nutrition and exercise counseling, and psychological, general medicine, and radiological support personnel
• Commitment and ability to perform at least 25 LAP-BAND^® System procedures each year (about two per month)
• Willingness to be proctored for initial procedures by surgeons experienced in the placement and use of the LAP-BAND^® System.

Every surgeon listed on this Web site has been LAP-BAND^® System certified. Our surgeon locator is the exclusive and most current source of this information. Click here to find a LAP-BAND^® System certified surgeon in your area.