Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding, or “lap band” is a restrictive procedure in which a silicone band is placed around the upper part of the stomach. This creates a much smaller stomach pouch. The band also slows the passage of food from the stomach into the intestine. This allows you to feel full for a much longer time after eating.
Laparoscopic gastric banding with the Lap Band® is FDA-approved for weight loss surgery in people with a BMI of 30 to 35 who have at least one obesity-related condition or a BMI of 40 and above.
How It Works
Inflating the balloon inside the band with the saline solution further restricts the opening through which food passes. This reduces the amount you can eat and slows the passage of food. You feel full longer after eating. Deflating the balloon inside the band by removing some of the saline solution increases the opening through which food passes. This can be helpful if you develop certain problems, like regurgitation of food. Of course, weight loss and improved health don’t happen with the lap band surgery alone. The patient must do his or her part to maintain a healthy lifestyle, which includes watching food portions, exercising, eliminating smoking and anything else that has been discussed with the surgical team.