What is involved with lap-band surgery?

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (lap-band surgery) is a type of bariatric surgery that involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach. This band creates a small stomach pouch and limits the amount of food that can be eaten at one time.

Lap-band surgery is typically done in an outpatient setting and takes about 30-60 minutes. The procedure is done through several small incisions in the abdomen. A camera is inserted into the abdomen so the surgeon can see the inside of the stomach. The band is then placed around the stomach and tightened.

After surgery, patients will need to follow a liquid diet for a few weeks. They will then gradually transition to a soft food diet and eventually a normal diet. The band can be adjusted as needed to help patients lose weight and maintain their weight loss.

Lap-band surgery is a safe and effective way to lose weight and keep it off. It is a good option for people who are obese and have not been able to lose weight with diet and exercise.

Here are some of the benefits of lap-band surgery:

* It is a minimally invasive procedure.

* It is done on an outpatient basis.

* It does not require any cutting or stapling of the stomach.

* It is adjustable.

* It can help patients lose weight and keep it off.

Here are some of the risks of lap-band surgery:

* Infection

* Bleeding

* Leakage of the band

* Erosion of the band into the stomach

* Slippage of the band

* Need for revision surgery

It is important to talk to a doctor about the risks and benefits of lap-band surgery before deciding if it is right for you.