Learning About The Lap-band® Surgery Weight Loss Procedure
LAP-BAND® surgery is a form of weight loss surgery that has helped many people that suffer from morbid obesity to successfully lose weight, and keep it off. LAP-BAND® surgery is a restrictive surgery, meaning that it decreases the amount of food that is able to be ingested into the stomach, which helps excess fat to be lost.
The LAP-BAND® system uses an adjustable gastric bypass band that is placed onto the stomach through laparoscopic surgery. It is placed on the upper portion of the stomach, not too far below where the esophagus and the stomach meet. The band is moved into place carefully, and once it is in place, it is fastened and tightened slightly. The next step in the LAP-BAND® surgery is for the surgeon to insert a valve that is connected to the gastric band. The valve that is inserted is used to adjust the band, which will increase or decrease the size of the stomach pouch, thereby adjusting how much food you are able to intake.
For the most part, LAP-BAND® surgery is very safe. It is certainly safer than some of the other methods of weight loss surgery, since there are no incisions made into the gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, unlike some other surgical weight loss methods, LAP-BAND® surgery can be reversed, and the band can be removed.
Generally, a person that receives LAP-BAND® surgery will be able to see results in weight loss almost immediately. It is not unheard of for a LAP-BAND® surgery patient to lose 65 pounds or more in their first year. If necessary, the LAP-BAND® surgery can be used long term, to help the individual from gaining weight back. Or, if preferred, the band can be removed quite simply once the desired weight has been met. During your consultation, your weight loss surgeon can help you develop a treatment plan that fits your individual needs and goals.
