If you have a friend, family member or other loved one who is struggling with his or her weight, you should know that one of the best ways to achieve long-term weight loss is having a strong support system.

The LAP-BAND^® Adjustable Gastric Banding System is a powerful tool that can help those who are committed to losing excess weight. The support that LAP-BAND^® System patients receive from others is crucial to the successful maintenance of the new healthy lifestyle, balanced diet and exercise program.

Getting Involved in Their Weight Loss Journey Right From the Start

If you're wondering how to really help someone who is thinking about LAP-BAND^® surgery, there is lots of great information, answers to key questions, and other support material on this site. Get as much information as you can on the LAP-BAND^® System, so that you can help your loved one make an informed decision that will truly change his/her life. Look at sections such as Is the LAP-BAND^® System Right For Me, Life After Surgery, and other informative pages to determine such important considerations as costs, qualification, insurance coverage and more. For example, click here to calculate your BMI.

Locating a Surgeon

A key first step on the road to a healthier and happier life with the LAP-BAND^® System is finding the best surgeon - one who is experienced in LAP-BAND^® System surgery and has a complete and supportive bariatric practice. Encourage your loved one to take advantage of the resources available on this Web site to find a qualified surgeon and ask the right questions - or search for a surgeon together. Click here to find a certified LAP-BAND^® System surgeon in your area.

Attending an Information Seminar

You and your loved one can greatly benefit from attending one of the free information seminars and support groups held throughout the country. The sessions are typically led by experienced surgeons and post-surgical LAP-BAND^® System patients may also be available to tell their stories, offer encouragement and answer your questions. Click here to find a LAP-BAND^® System seminar near you.

Taking Advantage of My LAP-BAND^®

Why not share this website with your loved one, go over the information and encourage him/her to start on a personal LAP-BAND^® System journey. With My LAP-BAND^®, your loved one can record their progress step by step, manage their information, and celebrate successes and milestones. Click here for the overview of My LAP-BAND^®, a personal resource of each patient's information and progress.

Providing Support Throughout the LAP-BAND^® System Experience

Naturally, once your loved one has made this life-altering decision, you will want to support them through the pre- and post-surgical experience, and help them adjust to and, best of all, enjoy their new and exciting lifestyle. You may accompany them on the day of surgery and help them once they return home. An important part of living with the LAP-BAND^® System is making healthy and satisfying diet choices, and in finding fun and effective exercise options. Your support and encouragement will be one of the most important success factors through this journey.

Rebecca’s Story

Find out how Rebecca’s dad, a doctor, helped her on her LAP-BAND^® journey...

Your results may vary. Click here for detailed risk information.