The Lap Band System restricts how much the stomach can hold by placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach. There is no cutting or stapling needed to divide the upper stomach pouch from the lower stomach. The result is you take in less food.

The Lap Band System restricts how much the stomach can hold by placing an The Lap Band System uses new surgical technology to help you lose weight by reducing how much your stomach can hold and lengthening the feeling of being full.

The success of this process, however, also depends on how motivated you are and how committed you are to your goal of long-lasting weight loss.

Your body gets energy from food while it passes through the alimentary canal. This consists of the mouth, the esophagus, the stomach, and small and large intestines. Digestion starts in the mouth with chewing and the addition of saliva. After the food passes through the esophagus, this process continues in the stomach. The stomach then provides temporary storage for food. Gastric juices, which contain enzymes, break down the food. This way, energy can be carried through the body by the blood.

The Lap Band System is usually placed laparoscopically. Laparoscopic surgery requires general anesthesia. First the surgeon makes a few small incisions in the abdominal wall and inserts narrow, hollow tubes. Thin surgical instruments are often passed through the tubes. The surgeon can see inside the abdomen by using a small camera that also goes through the tubes. The picture the camera takes is shown on a monitor that is like a TV screen. This technique is called ‘laparascopy’ and is considered ‘minimally invasive.’

If there is a problem with the Lap-Band System, or if you can’t lose enough weight or adjust to the new eating habits, your surgeon may decide to remove it. Removing the Lap Band will most likely restore your stomach to its original form. Also, digestive tract will again function normally.

The Lap Band is not right for everyone. You and your surgeon should work together to decide if this is the right treatment for you. Here are some of the things your surgeon will consider...