Lap Band Procedure

The Lap Band is secured around the upper stomach to create a new, small stomach pouch. The band is tied to an access port beneath the skin surface by thin, kink-resistant silicone tubing. The port gives access to the surgeon to adjust the size of the Lap Band system to satisfy individual patient weight loss needs by increasing or decreasing saline to inflate or deflate the band. This part of the procedure impacts the amount and consumption rate of food.

The intended target of weight loss is from one to three pounds a week. Adjustments to the band, which are performed during simple outpatient visits, are decided by the patient's weight loss, the amount of food that can be comfortably eaten, and other matters involving the patient's health. The end result is that patients feel an earlier sensation of fullness and are very satisfied with less amounts of food.