LAP-BAND® System

How It Works

The LAP-BAND System is a gastric banding system that helps you lose weight gradually and helps control weight by reducing the amount of food the stomach can hold at one time.

Unlike gastric bypass, the LAP-BAND System requires no cutting, stapling or intestinal re-routing. The procedure is performed laparoscopically by a surgeon. In the lap-band procedure, an adjustable silicone ring or band is placed around the top part of the stomach, creating a small one to two ounce pouch. The system includes a small port, which is placed beneath the skin allowing for adjustment of the band. Adjustments are made using a fine needle which is passed through the skin into the access port to add or subtract saline. This process usually takes only a few minutes and most patients say it is nearly painless.