What is Lap Band Surgery?
Laparoscopic bariatric surgery with the adjustable gastric band, also known as the Lap Band, involves the placement of an inflatable silicone tube on the upper portion of the stomach, which limits food intake and suppresses hunger. After Lap Band surgery, the patient feels satisfied with smaller amounts of food.
For many people suffering from obesity, the Lap Band procedure can be an effective method for significant weight loss, even when traditional methods of weight loss have failed. Surgeons often prefer the Lap Band because it is adjustable, reversible, and allows for a less invasive operation.
Are You a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery with the Lap Band?
If you have attempted but failed to lose weight through supervised diet changes and exercise, you may be a candidate for this procedure. Most patients present a BMI (body mass index) of 35-40, along with one or more health problems related to obesity, such as sleep apnea, diabetes mellitus, osteoarthritis and other problems.
To benefit from bariatric surgery, one must also be committed to making long-term lifestyle changes such as healthy diet and regular exercise.
How Lap Band Surgery Works
This 30 to 60 minute operation is performed under general anesthesia. Small incisions are made in the abdominal wall, where a narrow tube is inserted. Using a laparoscope, your surgeon is able to view and access the stomach. The doctor then inserts the Lap Band and carefully positions it around the stomach, forming a ring.
Sutures are then placed to create a sleeve both around and below the band. A special port is then connected, which will be located on the abdominal wall.
After Your Lap Band Surgery
Most patients are discharged within 24 hours and return to their normal routine in about 1 week. You will probably be encouraged to walk in a short time, but regular exercise will need to be postponed for about 4 – 6 weeks.
Your bariatric surgeon will explain the post-operative steps in greater detail, including your diet restrictions during the initial recovery period.
Adjustments will be made to the Lap Band, during which your surgeon alters the level of saline within the band, tightening or loosening it around the stomach. These adjustments will be made during weekly or bi-weekly follow-up appointments.
For more information on Lap Band and other bariatric (weight loss) procedures, please contact Surgical Arts of Inland Empire in Rancho Cucamonga. Surgical Arts of the Inland Empire is conveniently located in Rancho Cucamonga, also near Ontario, Upland, Fontana, Montclair, Claremont, and Riverside, California.
Read about Kym’s transformation from Size 22 to Size 4 through lap band surgery. 
Dr. Owens is one of the most experienced Bariatric Surgeons in California, having performed over 7,000 weight loss surgeries. 
Join us for our monthly Weight Loss support group, or learn more about Weight Loss Surgery at a FREE seminar with Dr. Owens. 
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