Why Choose The Lap Band?

Lap Band Procedure Overview

The Lap Band was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for safe and effective weight loss. It is a silicone band – like a ring or belt – that is placed around the upper part of your stomach.

It is designed to place a precise level of pressure on the nerves around the upper part of your stomach so they send signals to your brain that you are not hungry. Because the band also constricts the upper portion of your stomach, you will eat less food at one time and still feel satisfied.

The Lap Band system includes a small access port that is safely placed under your skin. The port is not visible and it is unlikely that anyone will know you have the band, unless you tell them. The band is adjusted by adding or removing saline through this access port with a small needle to ensure it continues providing optimum weight loss results.

The Lap Band Procedure - Video Presentation

To find out more about how the Lap Band procedure is performed, watch this video presentation by Dr. Paul O'Brien, the Medical Director for True Results.

Dr. O'Brien is not only a clinical leader at True Results, he is also recognized around the world as one of the foremost authorities on the Lap Band procedure and weight loss surgery.  He is also a prolific researcher and publisher of informational articles on the benefits of the Lap Band. 

To find out more about Dr. O'Brien and his research findings visit Dr. O'Brien's Corner on this website.

Benefits Of The Lap Band Procedure At True Results

True Results is America's #1 Lap Band Provider.  With over 20,000 patients, the expert team at True Results is well versed in the needs of the bariatric patient and its facilities are specially designed to meet and exceed our patients' expectations.  Also, True Results provides a world-class Aftercare program that is designed to give the support and advice necessary to ensure quick and lasting weight loss.

Same-day, outpatient procedure. The Lap Band procedure is performed using advanced laparoscopic technology. Many patients have the procedure in the morning and are home by the afternoon. Lap Band patients also have less scarring and quicker recovery times than other weight loss procedures. Many patients have the procedure on Friday and return to work on Monday.

It’s adjustable. The ability to adjust the Lap Band is a great benefit. As you lose weight, saline can be added or removed from the band to ensure your continued weight loss success. The band can also be loosened to accommodate changes during pregnancy and tightened after delivery to help you return to your healthy goal weight.

It’s reversible. Unlike other weight loss procedures, the Lap Band solution is reversible. It does not involve removing or stapling parts of the stomach and does not reroute the digestive tract.

Safer bariatric procedure. The Lap Band procedure is safer than other weight loss procedures. It has a lower incidence of side effects and rarely results in nutritional deficiencies that are more common with gastric bypass and gastric sleeve. Also, the procedure is less invasive and does not remove, reroute or staple significant parts of your stomach or digestive tract as do the gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgeries. It is important, however, to talk to your doctor about your personal health history and the possible risks with any surgical procedure.

The Lap Band Helps Resolve Weight Related Health Issues (Co-Morbidities)

Many overweight people are treated unfairly and discriminated against because of their appearance. They can also suffer from a variety of weight-related health issues. 

Losing weight with the Lap Band from True Results has many benefits.  From the psychological benefits of feeling better about yourself, to higher levels of confidence, many of our patients social lives are completely changed by their experience with the Lap Band.

In addition to the social aspects of losing weight, there are great health benefits as well.  As seen in the chart (below), 90% or more of the Lap Band patients experienced resolution or improvement in asthma, Type II Diabetes, sleep apnea and reflux; almost 80% improved or resolved their high blood pressure (hypertension). (1-4).  These results are based on numerous studies from leading authorities across America and the world.

Lap Band Procedure - Frequently Asked Questions

It's normal to have questions when you're considering the Lap Band procedure, and you can find some answers here. But remember: the best possible resource for answers to your questions about obesity surgery and Lap Band is your surgeon. It's important that you ask, and it's essential that you follow his or her advice.
 

How do I know if I qualify for gastric banding?

The Lap Band is FDA approved if you are at least 18 years of age, have a BMI of at least 30, have a history of being overweight and made some attempts at weight-loss.  If you meet these general criteria, you may be qualified to have the Lap Band procedure performed at one of our surgery centers. While a medical evaluation is still required, you can try our BMI Calculator to learn what general category applies to your current weight and height.

You can also give us a call today at 1-800-324-2694 to speak with an experienced specialist regarding your BMI and any relating circumstances relating to other important factors such as age, weight and insurance coverage.  You can also schedule a Free Individual Consultation to meet with our experts face-to-face so you can have all of your questions answered. 

Does my insurance cover gastric banding?

Most insurance companies do offer coverage for weight loss surgery.  Our Insurance Verification Experts negotiate with your insurance company to determine all the benefits available with your plan. True Results offers a Free Insurance Verfication Service for our patients.

True Results is dedicated and committed to getting your benefits verified quickly and accurately so you have all the information you need to understand your benefits. We will explain in detail what your insurance carrier will cover and what requirements must be met in order for coverage to be paid by your insurance company at the time of your appointment.

To be considered for coverage, your insurance company may require documentation regarding your medical history and any weight-related health problems you might be experiencing. In certain circumstances, a letter of medical necessity is required from your primary care physician. Call 1-800-324-2694 to get started. 

What are my financing options if the procedure is not covered by insurance?

For patients who are not covered by insurance, True Results has an alternate payment option including financing through a trusted credit partner.

How much weight will I lose?

Weight-loss results vary from patient to patient, and the amount of weight you lose depends on several things. The Lap Band needs to be in the right position, and you need to be committed to your new lifestyle and healthy eating habits.  Weight loss surgery is not a miracle cure, and the pounds won't come off by themselves. It is very important to set achievable weight-loss goals from the beginning. A weight-loss of two to three pounds a week in the first year after the operation is possible, but one pound a week is more likely. Twelve to eighteen months after the operation, weekly weight-loss is usually less.

Remember that you should lose weight gradually. Losing weight too quickly creates a health risk and can lead to a number of problems. The main goal is to have weight-loss that prevents, improves, or resolves health problems connected with severe obesity. 

What are the advantages of gastric banding compared to gastric bypass?

Gastric banding is ten times safer than gastric bypass and achieves nearly identical long-term weight-loss. Unlike gastric bypass, is also completely reversible and adjustable.  Several studies have concluded that recovery time and post-surgical complications are less with gastric banding than with gastric bypass. Furthermore, the gastric bypass involves a very complex surgery requiring both cutting and re-routing of internal organs and carries a much higher price tag.  

Weight-loss results with the Lap Band compared to sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass?

Many studies have shown that sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass patients lose weight faster in the first year.  At five years, however, many Lap Band patients have achieved and sustained weight-loss comparable to that of gastric bypass patients.⁵  Because the sleeve gastrectomy is a newer procedure, research is not available to indicate long-term weight loss results.  It is important to focus on the substantial benefits of sustained, long-term weight-loss.  Remember, it is important to lose weight gradually while reducing obesity-related risks and improving your health.  

Can the band be removed?

Although the Lap Band is not meant to be removed, it can be. Surgeons report that the stomach generally returns to its original shape once the band is removed.  After the removal, though, you may soon go back up to your original weight. You may also gain more. 

Will I feel hungry or deprived with the Lap Band?

The Lap Band makes you eat less and feel full in two ways — first by reducing the capacity of your stomach and second by increasing the time it takes food to get through the digestive system.  After a small meal, the amount of which varies from person to person, you should feel full. If you follow the nutrition guidelines when you choose your food and then chew it well, you should not feel hungry or deprived.  Remember that the Lap Band is a tool to help you change your eating habits. 

How do I find a qualified surgeon?

True Results has the most experienced team of Lap Band surgeons in America.  It is important to choose a surgeon who is qualified to perform your procedure and who has a comprehensive program for post-operative follow-up. Here are some suggested criteria to look for: weight-loss (bariatric) surgery experience, Board certification (The American Board of Surgery), fellowships (The American College of Surgeons), and memberships (The American Society for Bariatric Surgery).

It is also important to find a program with surgical facilities, supplies, and equipment specific to the needs of weight-loss surgery patients, as well as a comprehensive team of staff and procedures to address weight-related health conditions, dietary instruction, exercise training, nursing care, and psychological counseling (if necessary). And, critical to your success, a program that emphasizes long-term care and goals. 

How long will it take to recover after my procedure?

The Lap Band surgery is performed using advanced laparoscopic technology. True Results patients typically have the Lap Band procedure in the morning and are able to return home later in the afternoon.  Depending on the type of work you do, your medical history, and your doctor's recommendation, you should be ready to return to work comfortably between three to five days and a month to six weeks before you can resume exercising. 

Does Lap Band require frequent visits to my surgeon after my procedure?

Check-ups with your doctor are a normal and very important part of Lap Band follow-up. Many surgeons see their patients weekly or biweekly during the first month and every four to twelve weeks for the first year. Adjustments are performed during some of these visits. It is typical for follow-up visits to be scheduled every three to six months during the second and third year, depending on the individual case. 

How is the band adjusted?

Adjustments are performed without surgery using a thin needle to inject or withdraw saline from the band via the access port. They can usually be done in an office setting and most adjustments take 10 to 15 minutes. Our patients say they are nearly painless. 

Do I have to be careful with the access port underneath my skin?

After your procedure, you will not have any activity restrictions because of the access port. It is placed under the skin (it is not visible) in the abdominal wall, and once the incisions have healed the access port should not cause discomfort or limit any physical exercise. The only sensation you may experience from the port occurs when you go in for adjustments. If you feel persistent discomfort in the port area, talk to your surgeon. 

Will I need plastic surgery for the excess skin when I have lost a lot of weight?

With the Lap Band, your weight-loss is healthy and gradual so it allows your skin to react more positively to the changes in your body. As a rule, plastic surgery should not be considered for at least a year or two after the operation since sometimes the skin will mold itself around the new body tissue. Give the skin the time it needs to adjust before you decide to have more surgery. 

Will the band help me with pregnancy?

Becoming pregnant can be easier as you lose weight. Your menstrual cycle may become more regular. If you need to eat more while you are pregnant, the band can be adjusted. After pregnancy, the band may be adjusted again and you can resume losing weight. 

Can I eat and drink anything in moderation?

The Lap Band is a tool that allows individuals to control how much food will satisfy their hunger. While it does not immediately reverse unhealthy eating habits, the gastric band will significantly increase the ability to curb habits that promote weight gain and obesity. The Lap Band provides the means necessary to overcome struggles with weight and significantly improve health and quality of life.

While the Lap Band does not prohibit you from eating most foods, it is important to include foods rich in important vitamins and nutrients - foods such as those recommended by your surgeon and/or dietitian. If you eat foods that contain high amounts of sugar and fat or drink liquids full of empty calories, such as milkshakes, the effect of the Lap Band may be greatly reduced or even cancelled.

Alcohol has a high number of calories and breaks down vitamins so it is not recommended as a healthy food choice. However, an occasional glass of wine or other alcoholic beverage is not necessarily considered harmful to weight-loss.⁶
 

Disclaimer: As with any surgery, there are specific risks and possible complications associated with the Lap Band procedure. Talk to your doctor to determine if you are a candidate for Lap Band.

¹ Dixon JB, O’Brien P. Health outcomes of severely obese type 2 diabetic subjects 1 year after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. Diabetes Care. 2002;25:358-363.

² Dixon JB, Schachter LM, O’Brien PE. Sleep disturbance and obesity: changes following surgically induced weight loss. Arch Intern Med. 2001;161:102-106.

³ Dixon JB, Chapman L, O’Brien PE. Marked improvement in asthma after Lap-Band surgery for morbid obesity. Obes Surg. 1999;9:385-389. 4. Dixon JB, O’Brien PE. Gastroesophageal reflux in obesity: the effect of Lap-Band placement. Obes Surg. 1999;9:527-351.

⁴ O'Brien, et al. Lap Band: Outcomes and results. J of Laparoend & Adv Surg Techniques. 2003;13(4):265-270. Clegg A., Colquitt J., et al. The clinical and cost effectiveness of surgery for people with morbid obesity. Health Technology Assessment. 2002;6(12):1-153.

⁵ Dixon J., Dixon A., O'Brien P. Light to moderate alcohol consumption: Obesity and the metabolic syndrome. Am J Bariatric Medicine. 2002;17(4):11-14.

IMPORTANT LAP-BAND® SYSTEM SAFETY INFORMATION

The LAP-BAND® System is indicated for use in weight reduction for severely obese patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 40 or a BMI of at least 35 with one or more severe comorbid conditions, or those who are 100 lbs. or more over their estimated ideal weight.

LAP-BAND® is not for those who are pregnant, or have symptoms of autoimmune, severe heart, lung, or gastrointestinal disease, cirrhosis or pancreatitis. Surgery-related fatalities, reoperation, and band removal are rare. Band slippage, stomach injury, vomiting and heartburn may occur.

For full safety information please visit www.Lap Band.com or call Allergan Product Support at 1-800-624-4261. Rx Only. © 2010 Allergan, Inc., Irvine CA 92612, U.S.A. ® and ™ Marks Owned by Allergan, Inc. All rights reserved.