Lap Band

Many people struggle with their weight for years before looking into the various types of surgical treatments for obesity available today. Morbidly obese patients have an incredibly high risk of related health problems and premature death; therefore the FDA has certified the LAP-BANDŽ System in the treatment of obesity: This operation, can be accomplished with a fast, simple, laparoscopic technique.

The LAP BAND Advantages:

• No Hospital Stay
• Covered by PPO Insurance
• No Cutting or Stapling
• 100% Reversible & Adjustable
• No Hunger! Not Another Diet!

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The LAP BAND Procedure:

The Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band procedure, more commonly known as Lap-Band surgery, is becoming very popular. This procedure involves using a silastic band to create a smaller stomach pouch, causing patients to become full after eating a minimal amount of food.

Further Information on the Lap Band Surgery:

Approved by the FDA in June 2001, the BioEnterics® LAP BAND Adjustable Gastric Banding System is the least invasive and the only adjustable surgical treatment for morbid obesity in the United States. It induces weight loss by reducing the capacity of the stomach, which restricts the amount of food that can be consumed. Since its clinical introduction in 1993, more than 120,000 LAP-BAND procedures have been performed around the world.

Minimally Invasive Approach

During the procedure, surgeons usually use laparoscopic techniques (using small incisions and long-shafted instruments), to implant an inflatable silicone band into the patient's abdomen. Like a wristwatch, the band is fastened around the upper stomach to create a new, tiny stomach pouch that limits and controls the amount of food you eat. It also creates a small outlet that slows the emptying process into the stomach and the intestines. As a result, patients experience an earlier sensation of fullness and are satisfied with smaller amounts of food. In turn, this results in weight loss.

Are You A Lap Band Candidate?

The LAP BAND System may be right for you if:

• You are at least 18 years old.
• Your BMI is 35 or higher, or you weight at least twice your ideal weight, or you weight at least 100 pounds more than your ideal weight. (BMI is calculated by dividing body weight (lbs.) by height in inches squared (in2) and multiplying that amount by 704.5).
• You have been overweight for more than 5 years.
• Your serious attempts to lose weight have had only short-term success.
• You do not have any other disease that may have caused your obesity.
• You are prepared to make substantial changes in your eating habits and lifestyle.
• You are willing to continue being monitored by the specialist who is treating you.
• You do not drink alcohol in excess.

If you do not meet the BMI or weight criteria, you still may be considered for surgery if your BMI is at least 35 and you are suffering from serious health problems related to obesity.