LAP-BAND surgery is a minimally invasive method of shedding weight. This procedure involves making a few small incisions in the abdomen to insert a gastric band – a medical device that fits like a bracelet around the top of the stomach. The band forms a small pouch in the stomach but does not affect the stomach’s structure. The LAP-BAND has proven to be an effective weight loss option that produces life-changing results and restores health. When a good diet and exercise regimen are implemented, patients can achieve meaningful and long-term weight loss results.

Your doctor may recommend LAP-BAND surgery if you meet the following criteria:

• Have a BMI of 30 and above, in addition to type 2 diabetes.

• Are prepared to make changes in eating habits and lifestyle.

• Do not drink alcohol in excess and are not addicted to illicit drugs.

• Prefer a procedure that requires minimal ongoing intervention or adjustments.

LAP-BAND surgery allows patients to feel fuller by eating smaller portions of food. By inserting the LAP-BAND about an inch down from the top of the stomach, a space known as “the pouch” is created. Each bite of food swallowed is momentarily held up by the LAP-BAND in the pouch. When that section of the stomach is full of food, the pouch is uniquely equipped with sensors and receptors that alert the brain that it is full.

Step One – Insertion

LAP-BAND surgery is performed laparoscopically through tiny incisions in the abdomen. Although it is minimally invasive, it still necessitates general anesthesia. The preferred physician will navigate through the small incisions utilizing a tiny camera and long, thin surgical equipment.

Step Two – Placement

During the procedure, the surgeon will place the gastric band around the upper region of the stomach, forming a small stomach pouch. The gastric band will be connected to an adjustable port beneath the abdominal skin and fat.

Step Three – Adjustment

Several weeks following surgery and recovery, adjustments will be made to the gastric band to ensure maximum weight loss results. The gastric band will be adjusted by adding or removing saline.

LAP-BAND surgery takes between 30 to 60 minutes to complete.

Following LAP-BAND surgery, most patients remain overnight and return home the next day to recover. Some pain and discomfort may be experienced throughout the first week. Patients can normally return to work and routine daily activities a week after surgery and progressively resume vigorous activities in 3 to 4 weeks. A special diet may be required for the first few weeks after LAP-BAND surgery; it is critical to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare expert.

LAP-BAND surgery is designed to provide long-term weight loss results. Patients who undergo the LAP-BAND operation lose up to 50% to 60% of their excess weight on average, with the majority of that loss occurring within the first year.

LAP-BAND adjustments, such as adding or removing saline and tightening or loosening the band as needed, may be required to ensure the band is working properly. The frequency of band adjustments varies by individual and is tailored to your progress. Most patients can expect 4 to 6 adjustments; however, other individuals may only receive one. LAP-BAND modifications become less often once the desired amount of weight is lost.

The cost of LAP-BAND surgery is determined by factors such as the procedure’s complexity, the surgeon & their experience, geographic location, alongside additional medical costs. In Canada, LAP-BAND surgery typically costs between $15,000 and $20,000.

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects including, but not limited to:

• Constipation

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Acid reflux

• Ulcers

• Infection

• Food unable to pass through the small pouch opening

• Stomach pouch enlarging

• Damage to adjacent organs

• Stomach perforation

• Revision surgery