The LAP-BAND? System can Help Provide Weight Loss that Lasts

Posted by Dr. Nick Nicholson on June 1st, 2014

LAP-BAND® is a type of gastric band that is used to reduce the size of the stomach to achieve weight loss. This silicone band is inserted into the abdomen with the help of a laparoscope (small video camera) to monitor the procedure.

Small incisions are made in the abdominal wall and the instruments are inserted through these incisions. Once the band is inserted, it will be adjusted after you have healed  from the surgery and have started to lose weight.

Adjustments are made using a tube that connects to the band. The tube is located right under the skin and it is used to inject a saline solution to inflate the band for tightening or it is used to reduce the amount of fluid for loosening the band.

This device works by clamping the stomach at the top leaving a small pouch to carry food. Whenever a patient eats, the amount of food they can ingest drastically reduces since they feel satisfied sooner. The brain considers the whole stomach to be full when the small pouch created fills up. The food then moves slowly into the rest of the stomach and continues its journey through the rest of the digestive tract.

The LAP-BAND® procedure leads to gradual weight loss over time allowing patients to live healthier lives. Although the device helps with weight loss, patients need to continue a healthy diet and regular exercise to maintain their weight.

Weight loss also helps to reduce conditions that are seen with obesity. Patients suffering from diabetes have experienced a reduction in the seriousness of diabetes and some have eliminated their blood sugar problems completely. Hypertension, heart problems and ease of movement get better as patients lose weight.

Adjustments by the doctor can be performed easily based on the patient's needs.  Only 1 out of 20 patients have requested to have the band removed, showing its effectiveness in what it does.

The benefits go beyond weight loss and spill over into the general wellbeing of the patient making it effective for long term use. Because of the way it works, weight is kept off, eliminating the stress for patients worrying about recurring obesity.

About Author

One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, nurses and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with LAP-BAND, Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Revisions.