What Is LAP-BAND® Surgery?
The ReShape LAP-BAND® System is a less invasive surgical weight loss procedure approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This adjustable gastric banding system is placed during surgery, which involves positioning the adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small gastric pouch. The pouch allows the patient to eat smaller amounts of food to achieve a sensation of fullness that occurs quickly and lasts for an extended period of time.
The LAP-BAND® System was originally FDA-approved for individuals with a BMI of 40 or a BMI of 35 or greater with obesity-related health conditions. In 2011, the FDA expanded approval to include patients with a BMI of 30 to 34.9 who have at least one obesity-related comorbidity, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. This made the LAP-BAND® System one of the few FDA-approved bariatric procedures available to patients in the 30–35 BMI range who have struggled to lose weight through non-surgical means.
Please contact Suburban Surgical Care Specialists/Kane Center for more information on LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding surgery
- LAP-BAND® Surgery Candidates
- How LAP-BAND® Surgery Works
- Nutritional Impact of LAP-BAND® Surgery
- LAP-BAND® Surgery Recovery
- Gastric Banding Adjustments Under Fluoroscopy
- LAP-BAND® Surgery Risks
- LAP-BAND® Surgery Cost
Am I a Candidate for LAP-BAND® Surgery?
LAP-BAND® System surgery may be an option for individuals who have struggled to lose weight through non-surgical methods and are seeking a less invasive, adjustable, and reversible bariatric procedure. Candidates typically fall into one of the following categories:
- A body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, regardless of other health conditions
- A BMI of 35 or higher with at least one obesity-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea
- A BMI between 30 and 34.9 with at least one qualifying comorbidity (based on expanded FDA approval)
Ideal candidates are also committed to making long-term lifestyle changes, including healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and consistent follow-up care for band adjustments. Because success with the LAP-BAND® System depends heavily on patient compliance, motivation and support systems are key factors in determining candidacy.
During your consultation at Suburban Surgical Care Specialists/Kane Center, one of our experienced bariatric surgeons will review your medical history, current health, and weight loss goals to help determine whether LAP-BAND® surgery is the best solution for your needs. We are here to guide you every step of the way.
I highly recommend this facility. Outstanding surgeons, Dr. Novo, Dr. Freedburg and Tony his PA. Kind and knowledgeable nurses, assistants, anesthesiologists. -Gail B.
How Does LAP-BAND® Surgery Work?
LAP-BAND® System surgery is typically performed using a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach, which involves small incisions and often leads to a shorter recovery time. During the procedure, the LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Band is placed around the upper portion of the stomach to create a small gastric pouch.
The band is uniquely constructed to be both durable and adjustable to suit a patient’s weight loss and lifestyle needs. Inside the band is an inflatable tube that can be filled with saline solution. The access port to this tube is positioned just beneath the skin of the abdomen during surgery. One of the key advantages of the LAP-BAND® System is that it can be adjusted or even removed, offering a flexible and reversible long-term solution for weight loss.
Adjustments to the band’s tightness can be made in response to weight loss progress or life circumstances, such as pregnancy. To modify the restriction, your doctor inserts a fine needle into the port to either add saline (tightening the band) or remove it (loosening the band). These quick in-office visits help maintain comfort and effectiveness throughout your weight loss journey.
Does LAP-BAND® Surgery Cause Nutritional Deficiencies?
LAP-BAND® System surgery is a fully reversible procedure that limits food intake. The stomach and the intestines are not cut or stapled during this procedure, and no part of the digestive system is rerouted. Therefore, food travels through the digestive system in a completely natural way. Though some vitamin supplements may be necessary to ensure optimal health after LAP-BAND® System surgery, the procedure has a low risk of vitamin deficiencies and other nutrition problems associated with more invasive forms of bariatric surgery.
What Can I Expect After LAP-BAND® Surgery?
Weight loss following a LAP-BAND® System surgery occurs gradually over a period of several months to several years depending upon the individual patient. These results are different from those experienced by patients who undergo the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure—for most Roux-en-Y patients, significant weight loss occurs rapidly during the first three months after surgery.
The LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding System is usually a better choice for patients who are seeking a less invasive procedure with a shorter recovery time. Medical research indicates that LAP-BAND® System surgery may carry a lower risk of immediate surgical complications compared to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. However, both procedures have been shown to be safe and effective over the long term when performed by experienced surgeons and followed by proper aftercare.
What Do Gastric Banding Adjustments Under Fluoroscopy Involve?
Suburban Surgical Care Specialists/Kane Center are pleased to announce the use of office-based fluoroscopy to assist in post-operative gastric band adjustments. Dr. James M. Kane Jr., Dr. Peter C. Rantis, Dr. Paul J. Guske and Dr. Jonathan W. Wallace, as well as their ancillary staff are now able to perform precise fills for their gastric banding patients utilizing C-Arms located at both the Hoffman Estates and Arlington Heights offices. In addition, a radiology technician has been hired to further facilitate our ability to provide this service.
The purpose of this technology is to perform an upper GI study while concurrently tightening the band. This allows for a more accurate fill in terms of satiety with meals and avoidance of obstructive complaints. This ultimately reduces the number of fills a patient requires following their surgery. In addition, adjustments under fluoroscopy enable the patient to actually visualize their gastric banding device. Fluoroscopy-assisted fills also aid in providing expedited quality care for patients referred to our practice who have had their band placed at another facility (outside of Illinois or even outside the United States).
The Kane Center is forever striving to maintain itself on the cutting edge in all facets of surgical care. Fluoroscopy-assisted band adjustments have dramatically improved the post-operative care our band patients now receive.
What Are the Risks of LAP-BAND® Surgery?
While the LAP-BAND® System is less invasive than other bariatric procedures, it is still a surgical treatment and carries certain risks. Possible complications include band slippage, erosion of the band into the stomach, infection, nausea or vomiting, and the need for reoperation or removal of the device. In some cases, patients may not achieve their desired weight loss, especially without consistent follow-up and adherence to dietary guidelines. Long-term success depends heavily on lifestyle changes and routine band adjustments.
Our experienced bariatric surgeons take every precaution to reduce risks and support your health before, during, and after surgery. We will review all potential risks and benefits with you during your consultation and answer any questions you may have.
How Much Does LAP-BAND Surgery Cost?
The total cost of LAP-BAND® surgery can vary based on individual needs, pre-operative testing, follow-up care, and whether adjustments are needed over time. In many cases, insurance providers offer coverage for LAP-BAND® surgery if specific medical criteria are met, such as having a qualifying BMI and at least one obesity-related health condition. Our team can help verify your insurance benefits and assist with any necessary documentation for pre-authorization.
If you are paying out of pocket or require financing, we will work with you to outline expected costs and available payment options. Contact our team to learn more about affordability and insurance coverage for LAP-BAND® surgery.
Contact Suburban Surgical Care Specialists/Kane Center
Are you a good candidate for LAP-BAND® System surgery? Contact Suburban Surgical Care Specialists/Kane Center to meet with one of our LAP-BAND® System surgery experts at our offices in the Northwestern Suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. During a comprehensive and confidential patient consultation, find out if the LAP-BAND® System surgery is the right weight loss solution for you.
Did you know that weight loss surgery is often a covered benefit? Contact us and let us verify your benefits for you.