Lap Band Surgery

Lap band surgery is a type of weight loss surgery that involves placing a silicone band around the upper section of the stomach, creating a small pouch. This pouch fills up quickly, which causes you to feel full and stop eating. The band that’s placed around the stomach is adjustable. It can be inflated or deflated by pumping a saline solution in or out via a small “access port” placed just under the skin. Over time, the band is tightened more and more. At some point, patients will reach an ideal tightness, which will allow for sufficient nourishment and optimal weight loss.

5 Things You Need to Know

  1. The small pouch that’s created at the top of the stomach generally holds approximately 50 milliliters. It allows this volume to slowly pass into the larger pouch.
  2. Unlike patients who undergo other surgical procedures to assist in weight loss (such as gastric bypass surgery), it’s uncommon for lap band patients to suffer from any nutritional deficiencies following their surgery.
  3. A common side effect of lap band surgery is productive burping, which refers to the regurgitation of swallowed food. This can result from the upper stomach pouch filling too quickly.
  4. Following lap band surgery, your diet must drastically change. You should start with liquids and then, after several weeks, move on to soft foods. Even months after surgery, some patients still have a hard time eating dry or doughy foods.
  5. It’s generally not a good idea to have the lap band removed once you have achieved your desired weight. It can be loosened to accommodate a pregnancy or illness.

3 Questions You Need to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Am I a good candidate for lap band surgery?
  2. How will my eating habits have to change following the procedure?
  3. How quickly can I expect to begin losing weight and when can I expect to reach my desired weight?

Also Known As: Gastric banding

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