Though the Lap Band® is promoted as safe, many patients do not find success after the procedure. The Lap Band®, or laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, offers an option for people who have a body mass index of 40, or a BMI of 30 accompanied by at least one chronic condition that would be better treated with weight loss. If you’re among the 80% of patients who do not see long-term results with the Lap Band®, it might be time to have it removed and consider other options. Dr. Dyslin and the team at Trinity Bariatric Institute can help you determine your best course of action.
How does gastric banding work?
With the Lap Band®, a silicone band is placed around the upper part of your stomach. The band creates a small pouch within your stomach and is adjustable — to make the pouch smaller or larger as needed. The band controls your hunger, because you simply can’t fit as much food into your newly sized stomach.
At first, you may need several adjustments to find the right fill “size” for your stomach. These adjustments can be done in an easy procedure in our office. But, if you don’t find yourself losing weight, regardless of how much the band is adjusted, or if the band causes complications such as an infection or trouble swallowing, the band can be removed and other bariatric surgical options explored.
For some people who get the Lap Band®…
For most people who get the Lap Band®, the restrictions on stomach size leave them eating much less so they lose weight steadily — about two pounds per week. Your eating and exercise patterns do influence your results. The Lap Band® controls the portion sizes you’re able to tolerate, but you control the type of food and how often you eat.
Should I have it removed?
The Lap Band® is supposed to remain in place indefinitely. But the procedure doesn’t prove successful for every person trying to lose weight. Dr. Dyslin can help you determine if you should just quit with the band and explore another option.
Your discipline related to diet and exercise may also be evaluated. Before revision surgery is performed and the band removed, Dr. Dyslin and our team will ensure you understand the changes you should make regarding lifestyle habits.
However, in some cases, it’s just time to call it quits with the Lap Band® and convert to another form of bariatric surgery or weight loss. We want to help you be as successful as possible when it comes to weight loss and ensure you understand how your behavior plays a role in weight loss, even if you’ve had surgery.
Your compliance is also important if you go on to another bariatric surgery option after Lap Band.
Our team at Trinity Bariatric Institute can help you explore weight loss options after failed Lap Band surgery. Call for a consultation or use this website to schedule one.