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The LAP-BAND® System is considered the least invasive and safest bariatric surgery option available because it doesn't involve incising into or re-routing the stomach or intestines as is common with other types of procedures. It is a restrictive form of weight loss surgery and involves the placement of a small silicone ring (also called a gastric band) around upper portion of the stomach, creating a small stomach pouch. The smaller size of the stomach along with the adjustable design of the LAP-BAND® restricts the amount of food a person can eat during meals, resulting in weight loss. The band contains an inner inflatable cuff that can be adjusted via an access port, allowing the amount of restriction to be increased or decreased based on each patient’s individual needs.

Benefits of the LAP-BAND® Procedure

One of the most important advantages of the LAP-BAND® procedure is that unlike other weight loss surgeries, it doesn't require any cutting or stapling of the stomach or altering of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, the procedure is completely reversible if unforeseen circumstances require removal of the band. The LAP-BAND® is also adjustable, allowing for increases or decreases in the level of restriction if needed to regulate the amount of food that can be eaten during meals.

LAP-BAND® Post-operative Fills / Adjustments

The inner cuff of the band is empty when it is first placed during surgery, allowing the patient some time to adjust to the smaller stomach. About six to eight weeks after surgery, the patient will have the cuff filled with a saline solution to achieve the appropriate amount of restriction. This process, called a fill or an adjustment, controls the stoma (stomach outlet) between the small upper stomach pouch and the lower part of the stomach. Adding more solution to the band will tighten it, increasing the amount of restriction and decreasing the portion sizes the patient will be able to consume. It will also slow the process of food moving from the upper pouch through the stoma and into the lower stomach where it is digested, which will result in longer periods of satiety or fullness (typically between four to six hours or more) experienced by the patient between meals.

The frequency and amount of adjustments will depend on each patient’s individual needs; however, most patients will need three to five adjustments within the first year after surgery. Once the patient has achieved an optimal amount of restriction and weight loss, fills will be more infrequent. Adjustment procedures typically take only a few minutes.