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How Does the LAP-BAND® System Work?
Gastric banding using the LAP-BAND® system is one of the newest procedures to aid in weight loss. The LAP-BAND® is minimally invasive, adjustable, reversible, and FDA approved since 2001. It is a restrictive procedure that decreases the volume of food that you can take in. It is the safest weight loss surgery available. The LAP-BAND® is a silicone band that is wrapped around the top part of the stomach. In doing so, a small pouch is formed that holds about one ounce. The band has a balloon inside of it that can be adjusted or tightened. As you lose weight, the band must be tightened just like you need to tighten your belt. We adjust the band by injecting saline in a port that we place under your skin, which is sutured to the abdominal muscle. The expected weight loss with the LAP-BAND® is 1-2 pounds per week.
The surgery is completed laparoscopically using 5-6 small incisions. The operation takes about 30-45 minutes and you go home the same day as surgery. The front of the band is held in place by suturing stomach to stomach. The back of the band is held in place by a special fat pad.
The goal with the LAP-BAND® is that you will eat three small meals per day. Once the band is adjusted correctly, you should feel satisfied with small portions of food and you should stay satisfied until your next meal. As with any weight loss surgery, snacking should be avoided.
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