Lap Band Surgery for Weight Loss

If you are just starting to contemplate weight loss surgery you will encounter a lot of jargon that you are likely unfamiliar with. Two of those terms are “lap band surgery” and “bariatric surgery.” What’s the difference?

In the most basic terms, bariatric surgery describes any form of weight loss surgery. This can include gastric bypass procedures such as Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and extensive gastric bypass, as well as laparoscopic gastric banding procedures such as the Lap Band. Bypass surgeries involve rerouting the digestive system in addition to reducing the size of the stomach. People who have these lose weight not just because they are forced to eat less, but because their bodies no longer absorb the same quantity of nutrition from the food that they do eat.

While some people use the phrase “Lap Band” to refer to any gastric banding surgery, it actually refers to a specific patented banding technology. Lap Band surgery is done laparoscopically, so the incision points are smaller, and healing takes less time. No permanent changes are made to the stomach or the intestines, so it is reversible if necessary. It has a lower chance of causing perforation of the stomach. Additionally, the band can be adjusted if needed. Plus, it is less expensive than more invasive types of bariatric surgery.

Due to its quicker recovery time and less invasive nature, the Lap Band procedure is often preferred over other types of bariatric surgery.