Adjustable Gastric Band (Lap-Band)

We provide full service weight loss surgery solutions offering several options, including Adjustable Gastric Band Surgery.

LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding System: Fast becoming a popular choice, the Lap-Band© / Realize Band is considered as the least invasive safest weight loss surgery. It is designed to induce weight loss in severely obese patients by limiting food consumption. On average, Lap Band Surgery patients are able to achieve and maintain a long term weight reduction of 50% or more. The slip-through buckle design band eases laparoscopic (making tiny incisions rather than a large incision and inserting long-shafted instruments through “ports”) placement around the stomach. The operation is performed under general anesthesia and takes less than an hour. Patients can usually return to normal daily activities within just a few days!

The idea behind the operation is to create a small pouch in the upper part of the stomach with a controlled and adjustable stoma, without stapling, thus limiting food intake. A gastric band device is introduced through tiny (1cm) incisions in the abdomen and is placed around the upper part of the stomach. The resulting pouch (or the "new stomach") dramatically reduces the functional capacity of the stomach. The band has a balloon from the inside that is adjustable and can reduce stoma size, thus prolonging the period of fullness. This helps the patient continually lose weight until they reach their goals. The restriction takes place in the radiology suite and normally takes 15 minutes. They inject saline into a port placed under the skin in the wall of the stomach. The tube that comes off of the band leads to the port.

The benefits of lap band surgery are significant weight loss and a reduction in obesity co-morbidities (diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea). Not only will the lap band help you lose weight, but as you lose weight you will see an overall improvement in your health.

Advantages of gastric banding:

• The procedure is minimally invasive
• No cutting, stapling, or rerouting of the stomach or intestines
• Calibrated pouch and stoma size
• Can be adjusted to patient's needs after surgery with no operation to adjust the stoma
• Laparoscopic removal possible
• Fully reversible
• Short hospital stay (does not exceed 48 hours)

You will undergo an extensive work-up to determine whether this operation is indicated and safe in your case. The preoperative screening will consist of complete blood tests, imaging studies, a gastroscopy and consultations with various specialists.