How Lap-Band Surgery Works
Minimally Invasive Surgery
A surgeon uses small incisions and a laparoscope to position an inflatable silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach. The band decreases the size of the stomach so you feel fuller faster. A tube from the band is attached to a port under your skin.
Gastric Band Adjustments
Your surgeon inserts a needle into the port to inject a saline solution that inflates and tightens the band. This makes your stomach smaller. Your surgeon may also use the port to remove fluid if the band needs to be deflated or loosened. These gastric band adjustments take place during regular visits with your doctor.
Expected Weight Loss
According to long-term studies, expected excess weight loss is estimated to be between 40 and 50 percent, however there is a greater percent of people losing 50 percent of their excess body weight when compared to other weight loss surgeries.