The Lap-Band® procedure is a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure with impressive lasting sustainable weight loss.1 By placing an adjustable band around the stomach, patients feel satiated sooner and longer, giving them the support they need to build healthy habits that last.
Patients choose the Lap-Band® procedure because it’s safe, affordable, and doesn’t require altering anatomy.
A few small incisions (1.5-2.5 cm each) are made on the abdomen, where your surgeon will use a tiny camera and long, thin medical instruments to operate and navigate. A Gastric Band is placed around the stomach to limit the amount of food that can be eaten at once helping control portions and promote your feeling of fullness. And once inserted, the Lap-Band can be adjusted or removed to meet new weight goals or major life events—like pregnancy.
Curious about becoming a Lap-Band® surgeon? Check out the basic requirements below and contact our team to learn more.
The Lap-Band System is indicated for weight reduction for patients with obesity, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 40 kg/m2 or a BMI of at least 30 kg/m2 with one or more obesity-related comorbid conditions. It is indicated for use only in adult patients who have failed more conservative weight reduction alternatives, such as supervised diet, exercise and behavior modification programs. Patients who elect to have this surgery must make the commitment to accept significant changes in their eating habits for the rest of their lives.
The Lap-Band System is not recommended for non-adult patients (patients under 18 years of age), patients with conditions that may make them poor surgical candidates or increase the risk of poor results, who are unwilling or unable to comply with the required dietary restrictions, or who currently are or may be pregnant.
The Lap-Band System is a long-term implant. Explant and replacement surgery may be required. Patients who become pregnant or severely ill, or who require more extensive nutrition may require deflation of their bands. Anti-inflammatory agents, such as aspirin, should be used with caution and may contribute to an increased risk of band erosion.
Placement of the Lap-Band System is major surgery and, as with any surgery, death can occur. Possible complications include the risks associated with the medications and methods used during surgery, the risks associated with any surgical procedure, and the patient’s ability to tolerate a foreign object implanted in the body. Most common related adverse events include: Band slippage, pouch dilation, stoma obstruction, gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal dilation, cholelithiasis, incisional infection, abdominal pain, gastroenteritis, or nausea and vomiting may occur. Reoperation may be required. Rapid weight loss may result in complications that may require additional surgery. Deflation of the band may alleviate excessively rapid weight loss or esophageal dilation.
Important: For full safety information please click here or talk with your doctor.