Lap Band Surgery - Fort Worth, Mansfield & Plano
Obesity is a serious health problem that can lead to several comorbid conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. Recent research shows that more than 38 percent of Americans, including children, are experiencing obesity. If you are looking for ways to lose weight, Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding or Lap Band surgery can be a possible way out. One of the most common surgical procedures to treat morbid obesity, it involves surgical placement of an adjustable band around the upper part of a person’s stomach, which limits their food intake capacity and supports long-term weight management. This makes adjustable gastric banding surgery a widely preferred option for patients seeking a minimally invasive and adjustable weight loss solution.
What is a Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band?
Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding, also known as Lap Band surgery, is a minimally invasive weight loss surgery that is performed through small incisions in the upper abdomen. During this laparoscopic surgery, an adjustable band is wrapped around a part of the stomach to reduce its size which limits an individual’s food intake. The band is an inflatable silicone ring that can be adjusted over time, depending on the patient’s weight loss progress and dietary needs.
The Laparoscopic Adjustable Band surgery divides the stomach into two sections: a small upper pouch and a larger lower portion. The upper pouch fills up quickly with food, giving a feeling of fullness and limiting food intake. Unlike other bariatric procedures, adjustable gastric banding surgery does not involve cutting or stapling the stomach, making it a reversible and laparoscopic option for weight loss. The flexibility of Laparoscopic Adjustable Band surgery is one of the key reasons it continues to be a popular bariatric procedure.
Candidates for Lap-Band Surgery
Lap Band surgery banding surgery is appropriate for individuals who:
- Have a BMI of at least 40.
- Have a BMI of at least 30, and suffer from at least one serious obesity-related health concern.
- Are 18 years old or older.
- Tried but failed at diet and exercise.
- Do not have any other health problem that causes excess weight gain.
- Are prepared to make substantial lifestyle changes.
- Do not consume alcohol in excess.
Patients considering Lap Band surgery should undergo a thorough evaluation to determine suitability and expected outcomes. Speak with an expert at DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery in Dallas, Fort Worth, Mansfield & Plano to discuss the benefits and possible risks.
Lap-Band Surgery Contraindications
Lap-Band surgery is not recommended for individuals with:
- Gastrointestinal or inflammatory diseases such as esophagitis, ulcers, and Crohn’s disease
- Hernias, protrusion of a body organ
- Severe heart, lung or liver diseases
- History of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus
- Presence of Infection
- Under the age of 18
- Alcohol or drug addiction
- Chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Lap Band Surgery Procedure
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 45 minutes. The procedure involves making 3 to 5 small incisions of about 1 inch. A camera and surgical instruments are used to accurately position the band around the upper part of the stomach and set into position with a suture thread. The port is then placed in the wall of the abdomen and sutured in place. The adjustable band allows doctors to modify the tightness over time, ensuring optimal weight loss results while maintaining patient comfort and safety. As a laparoscopic procedure, Lap Band surgery involves smaller incisions, reduced scarring, and typically faster recovery compared to traditional open surgeries.
Risks & Complications
As with any other procedure, Lap Band Surgery also has certain risks and complications:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Ulcer at the band
- Esophageal reflux (indigestion)
- Dehydration
- Constipation
- Possibility of the band slipping or eroding into the stomach
- Infection, Bleeding, Abdominal pain
Looking for Lap Band Surgery in Dallas,
Fort Worth, Mansfield & Plano?
Contact DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery!
If you wish to learn more about laparoscopic gastric banding or have your gastric band adjusted, Dr. Sachin Kukreja, Dr. Elizabeth Hooper, and Dr. Barr and the team at DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery can help. Our doctors provide comprehensive assistance at every stage of your weight loss journey. We take a comprehensive approach to lap band surgery, ensuring each patient receives guidance tailored to their health goals and lifestyle. For more information on Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding in the Dallas, Fort Worth, Mansfield & Plano area, simply call 469-620-0222 or fill out our online appointment form and we will take it from there.