Gastric Banding Surgery (Lap-Band Surgery)

Overview

Gastric Banding Surgery also known as Lap-Band Surgery, is a minimally invasive weight loss procedure that helps individuals reduce food intake by placing an adjustable gastric band around the upper part of the stomach. This surgical gastric banding creates a small pouch making patients feel full faster ultimately leading to weight loss. The procedure is reversible and less invasive compared to other weight loss surgeries like gastric bypass.

Why is Gastric Banding Surgery (Lap-Band Surgery) Required?

Lap band surgery is typically recommended for individuals who:

Have a BMI of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35+ with obesity-related health issues such as diabetes, hypertension or sleep apnea.

Struggle with weight loss despite diet and exercise efforts.

Are at risk of severe health problems due to excessive weight gain.

Need a less invasive, adjustable and reversible weight loss option.

Key Advantages of Gastric Banding Surgery (Lap-Band Surgery)

• Minimally invasive: Performed using laparoscopic band techniques leading to smaller incisions.
• Adjustable: The band can be tightened or loosened as needed for effective weight loss.
• Reversible: Unlike gastric bypass the gastric band surgery does not involve cutting or stapling the stomach.
• Shorter recovery time: Most patients return to their daily activities within a few days.
• Lower risk of complications compared to other weight loss surgeries.
• Gradual weight loss allowing the body to adjust to changes.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Taking Gastric Banding Surgery (Lap-Band Surgery) Treatment?

Before undergoing stomach band surgery your doctor may recommend:

• Medical evaluations: Blood tests, imaging and overall health assessment.
• Dietary changes: Shifting to a low calorie, liquid based diet for a few days before surgery.
• Quitting smoking and alcohol: Smoking increases surgical risks and slows recovery.
• Medication adjustments: Certain medications may need to be stopped before the procedure.
• Mental preparation: Understanding the lifestyle changes required after the surgery.

How is Gastric Banding Surgery (Lap-Band Surgery) Performed?

• Anesthesia: The patient is put under general anesthesia.
• Laparoscopic approach: Small incisions are made in the abdomen.
• Placement of the gastric band: The adjustable gastric band is placed around the upper part of the stomach creating a small pouch.
• Band adjustment port: A small device is placed under the skin of the abdomen allowing the doctor to tighten or loosen the band in future visits.
• Closing the incisions: The small incisions are closed with stitches or surgical glue.

The entire lap band surgery procedure takes about 30-60 minutes.

What You Can Expect

1. Before the Procedure

Fasting for 8-12 hours before the surgery.

Pre surgical tests and discussion with the doctor regarding risks and expectations.

2. During the Procedure

The gastric banding surgery is performed laparoscopically meaning minimal scarring and faster healing.

The band is secured around the stomach without altering the digestive system.

3. After the Procedure

Hospital stay: Usually same day discharge or an overnight stay.

Initial diet: Liquid diet for the first 2 weeks followed by soft foods.

Gradual reintroduction of solid foods after 4-6 weeks.

Follow up visits to adjust the gastric lap band as needed.

Risks and Potential Complications

While gastric banding lap band surgery is considered safe, some risks include:

Slippage of the gastric band requiring adjustment or removal.

Infection or bleeding at the incision site.

Difficulty swallowing or nausea after eating.

Need for additional procedures if the band is too tight or too loose.

Erosion or popping of the gastric band which may require gastric band removal surgery.

Results/Outcomes

Expected weight loss of 40-60% of excess body weight within 2 years.

Improved health conditions like diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnea.

Better mobility, energy levels and quality of life.

Sustained weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.