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The LAP-BAND weight loss option is a surgical treatment designed to provide individuals struggling with obesity with added dietary support. The LAP-BAND is considered to be a minimally invasive treatment that decreases the size of one’s stomach; dieters must be approved by a health professional before he or she may become a candidate for the LAP-BAND procedure.

How Does the LAP-BAND Work?

The LAP-BAND reduces the size of the stomach so that dieters will be forced to eat a decreased amount of food; this decrease in food intake will result in gradual and long term weight loss. The LAP-BAND procedure is done laparoscopically, wherein a surgeon only creates a small hole in the body in order to apply the band to the stomach. The LAP-BAND is made of a simple silicone ring filled with saline. This ring is attached to the upper portion of the stomach like a belt, resulting in a small food stack where consumed food is temporarily stored prior to the full digestive cycle.

In addition to reducing the amount of food that each consumer can eat, the LAP-BAND also forces food to move through the digestive tract more slowly; therefore, dieters feel fuller on fewer calories, while also have feelings of fullness for a longer period of time.

How is the LAP-BAND Different than Gastric-Bypass Surgery?

Gastric-Bypass surgery, which is an alternative weight loss surgery for individuals struggling with obesity, involves an actual surgical removal of portions of the stomach. Unlike this procedure, the LAP-BAND is less invasive, and also provides individuals with more flexibility and control. Essentially, since the LAP-BAND is filled with saline, surgeons can tighten or loosen the LAP-BAND by simply adding or removing saline from the band. Adding to this, if the BAND is too tight or loose, the surgeon can simply adjust the size resulting in a newly created stomach / pouch size.

How Much Weight Will Dieters Lose?

After undergoing a LAP-BAND procedure, dieters can expect to lose approximately one pound per week. This weight loss will mostly occur during the first year after having the procedure. After a dieter achieves his or her weight loss goals, the LAP-BAND can help a dieter maintain his or her weight for long-term success.

Benefits of the LAP-BAND

• The procedure is minimally invasive and does not cause much scaring
• The procedure is short, and requires less than a 24 hour hospital stay
• LAP-BAND poses fewer risks and cautions when compared with other surgical weight loss procedures, such as gastric-bypass
• The LAP-BAND can be adjusted and is reversible
• The procedure promotes both short and long-term weight loss success
• Various insurance companies cover the cost of the procedure

Cons of the LAP-BAND

• Although the LAP-BAND procedure is minimally invasive, there are always risks when undergoing any form of surgery
• Side effects of the procedure can cause various forms of debilitation and discomfort
• The cost of the LAP-BAND procedure is expensive, as it ranges in price from approximately $12,000 to $25,000
• Some insurance policies may not cover the procedure
• Sugar and fatty foods must be avoided for safety purposes
• Side effects may include issues such as:
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting

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