What is Lap Band Surgery?
Lap band surgery, also known as adjustable gastric band, adjustable laparoscopic banding, Lap-Band®, and Realize® Band, is a restrictive weight loss surgery.
It promotes weight loss by significantly decreasing the amount of food comfortably eaten at each meal and maintains a sense of fullness for a longer time after meals. This allows you to eat less throughout the day and lose weight.
The lap band is a procedure in which a silicon band is placed laparoscopically around the upper portion of the stomach. Laparoscopic surgery is a state-of-the-art, minimally-invasive procedure that allows for quick recovery and less discomfort than open surgery. About six weeks after surgery, the lap band is inflated by injecting a saline solution through a permanent port placed under the skin. The surgeon adjusts the lap band to the right level of restriction, helping the patient reach a healthy weight. Once the proper restriction is achieved, future adjustments are not usually required.
 | “I have the tool to take control of my obesity. My life has done a complete turnaround to where I am now LOVING LIFE and LOVING ME! I have lost 217lbs. from my highest weight of 391lbs.” –Gary C. |
Lap Band Surgery — A Long-Term Weight Loss Solution
The lap band promotes a slow, steady weight loss that may be maintained long-term. People choose lap band surgery over other types of weight loss surgery if they want a slower and less dramatic weight loss, no nutrient mal-absorption, and a less restrictive post-surgical diet. The disadvantages of the lap band procedure include the permanent implantation and possible malfunction of the device and less effective long term weight loss compared to gastric bypass surgery. Candidates for lap band have a body mass index or BMI of 35 or more (use the BMI calculator at right to find your BMI), have at least one health condition associated with obesity, and have tried more conservative weight loss methods including diet, exercise and weight loss medications.
A Safe Procedure
Lap band surgery is a safe procedure when performed by specially-trained and experienced surgeons. Barix offers a comprehensive program including consultation with highly skilled surgeons, help with insurance approval, pre-surgery testing, specially-trained surgical staff and state-of the-art equipment, and a post-surgery program to help you to adapt lifestyle habits that support a healthy weight. The Barix Clinics program includes nutritional counseling, support groups, online forums, and an extensive lifestyle book—The Guide to Good Health. Want to learn more? Check out some of our gastric band success stories from Barix patients.
Is Lap Band Right for You?
The best way to find out if lap band surgery is right for you is to call 734-547-4700 or complete and submit the form at the top of the page. A Barix Clinics patient service representative is ready to answer your questions, send you additional information or give you the opportunity to meet with a Barix surgeon. Let us know how we can help you decide if lap band surgery is right for you.
