LAP Band Surgery

Proper diet and exercise seem like the “long and winding” road towards achieving the ideal weight. Hence, more and more people are seeking the “quick fix” – weight loss surgery. Although it is widely available and is much sought-after, it is not meant for everyone with weight issues.

Lap Band surgery takes away the scare that is mostly associated with weight loss surgery. This minimally invasive weight loss technique is rapidly gaining popularity ever since June 2001, when it was granted approval by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States.

The FDA-approved brand name “Lap Band System” is an adjustable gastric belt that is used in Lap Band surgery. This silicone band is made to go around the patient’s stomach, resulting in his ability to manage hunger and obtain “fullness” or satiety. In other words, the patient eats less and feels full faster. The major feature of the Lap Band is its being adjustable. Attached to a port, the device can be inflated to accelerate weight loss.

The “qualified” candidates for a Lap Band surgery have requirements which are basically similar with the other types of weight loss surgery. Such criteria were set by the National Institutes of Health since the start of the 90’s and are still the same up to now. Patients should have a body mass index or BMI equivalent to 35-39, along with medical problems caused by excessive weight. Such medical conditions include hypertension, high cholesterol, or diabetes. However, for patients with body mass index equal to 40 or higher, then medical problems need not be present.

Lap Band surgery involves small incisions and the use of a of small camera known as laparoscope, necessary to view the positioning of the Lap Band. The adjustable Lap Band is wrapped about the top of the patient’s stomach, with sutures holding it in place. The port is attached under the skin, above the abdomen. The port is where adjustments are made. Inflating the band means injecting the port with saline. When the band has been inflated, the passage towards the stomach is made smaller, thus, restricting too much food intake. If the band seems too tight, saline fluid may be removed at the doctor’s clinic.

Unlike other weight loss surgeries, the Lap Band surgery results are entirely reversible. That is, the stomach’s normal size may be restored by removing the band. Also, since this procedure does not require cutting nor stapling, it requires shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery periods. Moreover, since Lap Band surgery is only minimally invasive, there is the absence of malabsorption issues, as well as life-threatening risks.

People who undergo Lap Band surgery can expect to go back to work after a week. A progressive diet plan should also be strictly followed, which starts with liquid diet, then soft foods, and solid foods thereafter. Certain exercise programs and lifestyle changes may also be recommended.

Patients are also expected to visit the surgeon’s office frequently for band adjustments. Typically, the initial 18 months after Lap Band surgery necessitates between six and eight adjustment visits.

The procedure generally eliminates between 50% and60% of the patients’ excess weight within the first two years. Some patients may need additional surgery, depending on the amount of weight lost.

Lab Band surgery cost varies depending on the location it was done. But generally, it could run from $17,000 to $30,000. And although Lap Band surgery has reduced risks of complications, there exist some known risks. Aside from infection and bleeding, the band can also slip and can go below the stomach, resulting in vomiting or heartburn. So before you don the belt, make sure that it is worth the trade-offs.