Know More About Lap Banding, Its Features And Advantages

Lap band system is the name of the FDA approved gastric band which is employed in weight loss operations. Lap banding generally involves the application of a silicone lap band around the top of the stomach. This decreases an individuals hunger pangs and helps him/her attain fulfillment without eating too much food.

By using this belt one will eat much less and feel full sooner. This procedure has same requirements as that of any weight loss surgery. Individuals having body mass index between 35 and 39 and those who do not have complex medical problems are eligible for lap band surgery. Some of these medical conditions include hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Placement of lap band in your body

Your surgeon will use a small camera known as a laparoscope after doing a series of small incisions. This camera is employed to visualize the location of the lap band. This belt is usually placed around the top of the stomach. This is then placed under the skin on the top part of the abdomen.

The duration of the surgery may be around half an hour. Also you may or may not be required to stay after the surgery has been completed. However, some complications are associated with the lap band surgical procedure. Some slippage of the band may occur as you lose weight and the stomach goes above the band, thus causing vomiting or heartburn. This can be fixed through adjusting of the band. Some other problems that may arise during the lap band procedure are:

  • The band may deflate due to leakage. This leakage may arise from the band, the tubing that links them or the reservoir.
  • The stomach pouch may get enlarge.
  • The stomach may get blocked.
The cost of band surgery may comes around $17,000 to $30,000. Some advantages of lap banding are:
  • Minimal invasion and trauma- It is among the least invasive surgical options, with small incisions and minimal scarring.
  • Fewer risks and side effects- It involves low risk of nutritional deficiencies associated with gastric bypass surgery.
  • Adjustable- It allows individualized degree of restriction for ideal rate of weight loss. It supports pregnancy by permitting stomach outlet size to be opened to accommodate enhanced nutritional needs.
  • Reversible- It can be removed at any time.
  • Effective long term weight loss.
So these are some lap banding procedures, benefits and advantages that makes it a unique choice among individuals aiming for reduction in their body weight. In case you are traveling out of the country for lap banding procedure then you should consider the travel time and related travel expenses for both surgery and any necessary follow up appointments as well.

Lap Banding