Learn About LAP-BAND

Find out how the LAP-BAND System can help you improve your health.

The LAP-BAND System is a popular type of weight loss surgery that involves placing a silicone band around the top portion of the stomach to help patients eat less, enabling significant and durable weight loss. Studies and experience to date have proven the LAP-BAND System to be an effective treatment for obesity with a very low rate of complications.

Advanced Technology

The LAP-BAND System is one of two laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) systems approved for use in the United States. It was approved by the FDA for marketing in the US in 2001. A competing gastric band, the REALIZE Band, received FDA approval in 2007. Both gastric bands have been used outside the United States for many more years.

Since the initial launch date, the LAP-BAND System technology has advanced to improve performance and patient outcomes. The current version, the LAP-BAND AP System, was introduced in 2007 for "Advanced Performance."

Features of the LAP-BAND AP System include:

  • Gastric band design incorporates seven pre-curved, pillow like sections for evenly distributed pressure, band stability, reliable restriction, and personalized adjustments
  • System is available in two band sizes and two port sizes, allowing it to be customized to best fit your anatomy
  • Online patient support program that offers clinical support and education

How it Works

The LAP-BAND System is a restrictive method of weight loss surgery that enables weight loss by restricting how much food you can eat at one time and controlling hunger sensations.

  • It reduces the stomach's capacity so that you eat less
  • It slows digestion so you feel full faster and stay full longer

The procedure does not require cutting, stapling or removal of any part of the stomach as with gastric bypass surgery or gastric sleeve surgery; rather it restricts how much food you can eat by placing a silicone band around the top portion of the stomach to create a smaller stomach pouch.

The procedure does not involve any intestinal cutting or rerouting; therefore it does not cause nutritional deficiencies or dumping syndrome as is common with gastric bypass surgery.

Treating Obesity with LAP-BAND Surgery

LAP-BAND surgery has helped thousands of people succeed with weight loss, but it may not be the right option for every person. If you are interested in the LAP-BAND system, you will need to discuss the option with your doctor to determine if it will be right for you.

The factors that need to be considered are:

  • medical eligibility
  • emotional commitment and willingness to adopt a new lifestyle
  • financial capability to pay for the cost of LAP-BAND surgery and aftercare, whether through health insurance or patient financing

Patient Criteria

Medical eligibility guidelines have been established by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to qualify patients for weight loss surgery.

The NIH patient guidelines for weight loss surgery:

  • Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more (about 100 pounds overweight for men and 80 pounds for women); or a BMI between 35 and 40 with a serious obesity-related health problem (such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, or severe sleep apnea)
  • Age at least 18 years old
  • History of obesity and failed attempts at nonsurgical methods of weight loss
  • Patient is well-informed and motivated with acceptable operative risks
  • Patient should be able to participate in treatment and long-term followup
  • Patient must clearly and realistically understand how life may change after surgery

Most bariatric surgeons and insurance companies, including the Medicare/Medicaid programs, refer to the NIH guidelines to determine whether or not a patient is an acceptable candidate for LAP-BAND surgery. These are just general guidelines, however, as you will need to be evaluated by a bariatric surgeon to see if LAP-BAND surgery is right for you based on your medical history and other relevant factors in your situation.