What Is Lap Band Surgery?
The laparoscopic adjustable gastric band, more commonly referred to as the lap band, is a restrictive, inflatable bariatric device placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a smaller pouch for food. This decreases the amount of food that a person may eat at any given time and increases the time it takes for the stomach to empty, resulting in weight loss by reducing appetite, limiting food intake, and slowing the digestive process.
The Lap Band
The lap band is a silicone ring connected to a tube, which is in turn connected to an access port, placed directly underneath the patient’s skin. This access port allows the surgeon to make adjustments to the band by increasing or decreasing the amount of saline in the band, making it more or less restrictive.
The Surgery
To place the band, the surgeon places tiny “keyhole” incisions in the abdominal wall and uses very thin surgical tools and a tiny camera to wrap the band around the upper part of the stomach. Because of the small incisions and the minimally invasive nature of this procedure, lap band surgery typically decreases blood loss, recovery time, pain, and scarring compared with other bariatric surgery options.
The Benefits
This procedure, along with simple lifestyle changes, can be a great way for patients to lose excess body fat and reduce their risk of developing obesity-related medical disorders such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, heart disease, hypertension, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). For men and women who already suffer from these conditions, losing weight can improve symptoms or even reverse the disease.
From the initial evaluation to the post-operative checkups, oBand® Surgery Centers in Miami goes above and beyond to ensure each patient’s satisfaction and success. To find out if you are a good candidate for this life-changing procedure, schedule your personal evaluation today by contacting our friendly staff at (888) 686-2741. Our goal is to help you realize your goals of a healthier weight by providing one of the safest bariatric surgical options available.
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