Lap-Band®
Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding is the least invasive surgical procedure for weight-loss. Aside from providing individualized weight loss, it is entirely reversible. The surgical procedure partitions the stomach into uneven compartments, leaving a small pouch (about 10% of the overall capacity) as the new reservoir for food. The smaller stomach size limits the amount of food intake. The size of the passageway between the two compartments can be adjusted by Dr. Lee, without further surgery. The digestive process is not altered, so nutrient absorption is not affected. This helps you eat smaller portions, while taming your hunger and gradually lose the unhealthy excess weight. For ideal results, a healthy diet and routine exercise should also be incorporated and our practice will provide you with all the necessary tools to succeed.
Attend one of our free educational seminars to find out if the LAP-BAND® System is right for you.
LAP-BAND® PROCEDURE
The LAP-BAND® procedure is performed laparoscopically through several small incisions in the upper abdomen. During the surgery the adjustable gastric band is placed around the top part of the stomach to create a small gastric pouch. This pouch holds approximately one – two ounces of food. The stomach and intestines are not cut or redirected. The band is connected to tubing with a port at the end. It is this port that allows the band to be adjusted. During the surgery, the port is secured to the abdominal muscles, deep under the skin. This is where it permanently remains. The surgery takes 1-2 hours and our patients typically stay overnight after the procedure. It is considered the safest bariatric procedure.
The band works by restricting the amount of food that you can consume. It also provides a constant sensation of being “full.” The band’s inner lining is an inflatable balloon that is used to tighten or loosen it. Adjustments of the band involve placing a small needle into the port and then either adding or taking out saline solution. This allows patients to have an individualized, customized weight loss program.
Typically the band is adjusted every 6-8 weeks after surgery during the first year. This is done in the doctor’s office and takes about 15 minutes. Occasionally it may need to be done using the assistance of an X-ray. After the first year following surgery, the frequency of the adjustments decline but this varies with each patient. Patients report minimal discomfort associated with these adjustments.
The LAP-BAND® allows you to eat several small nutritionally balanced meals per day. Because of the feeling of fullness, you should no longer have the urge to snack, graze or overeat. The goal is for you to lose 1-2 pounds per week and approximately 60% of your excess body weight within 2 years of the procedure.
BMI Calculator
Free Lap-Band® Band Seminar Video (Part 1) Free Lap-Band® Band Seminar Video (Part 2)
Presented By: Dr. William Lee
