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Saint Agnes Hospital holds regular weight loss surgery seminars, call 866-690-(WELL) 9355 or click here to register.

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Bariatrics

LAP-BAND Surgery

The Procedure

The newest bariatric approach, LAP-BAND, is a laparoscopic procedure, and the only adjustable and reversible obesity surgery available in the United States.

During the LAP-BAND procedure, surgeons place an inflatable band around the stomach to limit its capacity and increase the feeling of satiety. Once implanted, the band can be tightened or loosened by inflating or deflating the balloon on its inner surface, allowing for an individualized degree of restraint with more or less caloric intake.

Initial installation for LAP-BAND surgery usually takes an hour or less. Subsequent adjustments are performed in a matter of minutes in an outpatient setting.

LAP-BAND Surgery Benefits

While less invasive than Roux-en-Y, weight loss with LAP-BAND surgery is also more gradual. Because it is reversible, LAP-BAND is an especially attractive option for younger female patients who may become pregnant and will need to increase nutrition for proper fetal development. It is also a viable alternative for individuals who are contraindicated for Roux-en-Y.

Recovery Time

LAP-BAND patients generally remain in the hospital for 24 hours after surgery. After both Roux-en-Y and LAP-BAND, patients can usually resume work and other activities within three to four weeks or sooner.

For more information on weight loss surgery options, see our Bariatrics section or call 1-866-690-9355.

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