Your Notifications
All done, no notifications

Lap Gastric Banding: Symptoms, Classification, Diagnosis & Recovery

“Gastric band surgery” is a reversible and adjustable bariatric technique. It involves placing a silicone band, known as the Lap-Band, around your stomach. This band reduces your stomach's capacity and slows the passage of food, helping to retrain you to eat less.

It is a minimally invasive surgery performed using a laparoscope. This procedure involves placing a weight loss band, known as a “lap band” or “laparoscopic adjustable gastric band” (LAGB), around the stomach. The band restricts the passage of food from the stomach to the intestine, aiding in weight loss.

Functioning of the gastric band( Lap Band)

It functions through an inflating tube made of soft silicone that is adjustable and forms a ring around the upper part of the stomach that powers the gastric band. This inflatable ring has a port surgically inserted under the skin attached to it. By injecting saline fluid through this port, the surgeon can adjust the tightness of the band. Due to the upper stomach pouch filling up more quickly, this change narrows the outlet between the upper and lower stomach portions, causing a quicker feeling of fullness after eating.

What are the criteria to qualify for Lap-Band surgery?

To qualify for Lap-Band surgery, your healthcare provider may consider the following criteria:

A body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher: The BMI uses the height-to-weight ratio to evaluate body fat. A BMI of 40 or higher indicates a higher risk of obesity-related diseases.

A BMI of 35 with at least one obesity-related disease: A BMI of 35 without a related disease is classified as class II obesity. However, a related medical condition qualifies as clinically severe or class III obesity.

These are the following signs and symptoms:

  • Severe Obesity, for instance, a BMI of 40 or higher.
  • Obesity-Related Health Conditions: A BMI of at least 35 accompanied by conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, or heart disease.
  • Being unable to lose weight with exercise and diet.
  • A strong desire to lose weight and improve overall health.

Here are some of the Diagnosis and tests that are performed before LAp Gastric Banding:

  • Comprehensive Medical History: The Doctor will Review the past and current health conditions, medications, and previous weight loss efforts.
  • Physical Examination: A thorough physical exam will be conducted to assess overall health and identify any potential risks or contraindications.
  • Blood Tests: It is performed to check for anemia, blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, liver and kidney function, and other metabolic conditions.
  • Imaging Tests: An abdominal ultrasound or other imaging studies are performed to examine the liver, gallbladder, and other organs.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): To assess heart health and ensure there are no underlying cardiovascular issues.
  • Pulmonary Function Tests: This is done especially if the patient has a history of respiratory issues or sleep apnea.

Following gastric band surgery, patients generally experience a quick recovery. Mild discomfort and soreness around the incision sites are common, but they can be managed with pain medication. Most patients can resume normal activities within a couple of days and begin a liquid diet, gradually progressing to soft and then solid foods as advised by their healthcare provider. It's crucial to keep up with progress and attend follow-up appointments for band changes.

Best Lap Gastric Banding Hospitals

Mount Elizabeth Hospital

Mount Elizabeth Hospital

Singapore, Singapore

Mount Elizabeth Hospital is a multispecialty healthcare facility operated by Parkway Health. The hos...more

FACILITIES

phone in the room SIM

Free Wifi

Translator

Health Insurance Coordination

Joint Commission International, or JCI
Saudi German Hospital

Saudi German Hospital

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Saudi German Hospital is one of the largest private hospitals belonging to the SGH Group which is th...more

FACILITIES

Post-Surgery Care Services

Free Wifi

Rehabilitation

Health Insurance Coordination

Joint Commission International, or JCI

Quironsalud Barcelona Hospital is built at a very convenient location in Barcelona. The hospital is ...more

FACILITIES

Private Rooms

Foreign Currency Exchange

Rehabilitation

Free Wifi

Joint Commission International, or JCIISO 9001

Consult Online with World’s Best Lap Gastric Banding

View All Doctors
Dr. V.S. Chauhan
Dr. V.S. Chauhan

General Laparoscopic Surgeon

Noida, India

20 of experience

USD  32 for video consultation

Dr. Nikhil Yadav
Dr. Nikhil Yadav

General Laparoscopic Surgeon

Delhi, India

18 of experience

USD  28 for video consultation

Dr. Pasquale Giordano
Dr. Pasquale Giordano

General Surgeon

London, United Kingdom

30 of experience

USD  645 for video consultation

Dr. Christopher Chan
Dr. Christopher Chan

General and Colorectal Surgeon

London, United Kingdom

34 of experience

USD  645 for video consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is gastric band removal possible after achieving weight loss?

A. Yes, the lap band can be removed after losing weight. But the same is not advised as you may gain weight in very less time.

Q. Can I get pregnant after I get a weight loss band?

A . Usually a gap of one or two years is recommended before you decide to get pregnant. Weight loss is more during the initial days of gastric band placement, which may affect pregnancy. You should consult your doctor before making a decision.

Q. Do I have to quit smoking and drinking?

A. Yes. You have to quit smoking and drinking for a targeted and healthy weight loss.

Q. When can I return to my daily routine work?

 A. You will be discharged on the same day or the next day of the surgery and you can return to work within four to six days.

 Q. When should I start exercising after the surgery?

 A. You can start slow and steady exercises after a week and can resume heavy workouts after one month.

 Q. What is the lap band surgery cost?

 A. The lap band surgery cost depends on the hospital where you are getting treated and other factors such as doctor’s fees, duration of stay in hospital, and anesthesia fees. Lap band cost also varies from one country to another.

Explore Top Hospitals Worldwide for Lap Gastric Banding

Explore Top Hospitals for Lap Gastric Banding

Author

Dr. Vishwas Kaushik

MBBS, MD

5 Years of Experience

Dr. Vishwas Kaushik is a qualified medical professional holding an MBBS from the prestigious Belgorod State University, Russia, with a strong foundation in clinical medicine and healthcare practice. His comprehensive medical training has equipped him with a profound understanding of evidence-based clinical practices, patient-centered care, and the evolving landscape of modern medicine. With a keen interest in medical research and scientific communication, he consistently translates complex clinical concepts into clear, accurate, and accessible content for diverse audiences. His work reflects a deep commitment to advancing medical knowledge, delivering impactful healthcare insights, and bridging the gap between clinical expertise and accessible medical communication.. View More

Reviewer

Dr. Ashish George

Gastroenterologist

18 Years of Experience

Dr. Ashish George is one of the leading names in HPB surgery & liver transplantation and has about 18+ years of experience.He is a principal consultant & unit head of liver transplant at Fortis Shalimar Bagh. View More