Thanks for your interest in the Lap Band procedure! Hundreds of thousands of Lap Bands have been implanted world-wide, and it remains the only adjustable weight loss operation in existence.

Minimally Invasive Approach

During the procedure, surgeons usually use laparoscopic techniques (using small incisions and long-shafted instruments), to implant an inflatable silicone band into the patient’s abdomen. Like a wristwatch, the band is fastened around the upper stomach to create a new, tiny stomach pouch that limits and controls the amount of food you eat. It also creates a small outlet that slows the emptying process into the stomach and the intestines. As a result, patients experience an earlier sensation of fullness and are satisfied with smaller amounts of food. In turn, this results in weight loss.

Safest and Least Traumatic Procedure
Since there is no cutting, stapling or stomach re-routing involved in the Lap Band procedure, it is considered one of the safest and least traumatic compared to other weight loss surgeries. For patients who suffer many medical problems as a result of their excess weight, the risk of surgery is far less than the risk of their obesity. The laparoscopic approach to the surgery also offers the advantages of reduced post-operative pain, shortened hospital stay and quicker recovery. If for any reason the Lap Band System needs to be removed, the stomach generally returns to its original form.

Adjustable Treatment
The Lap Band is to date the only “adjustable” weight-loss surgery. This means that YOU HAVE CONTROL over your path to a healthier life! The diameter of the band is adjustable for a customized weight-loss rate. Your individual needs can change as you lose weight. For example, pregnant patients can expand their band to accommodate a growing fetus, while patients who aren’t experiencing significant weight loss can have their bands tightened.

To modify the size of the band, its inner surface can be inflated or deflated with a saline solution. The band is connected by tubing to an access port, which is placed well below the skin during surgery. After the operation, the surgeon can control the amount of saline in the band by entering the port with a fine needle through the skin. Adjustments are typically simple office procedure, and a numbing spray is used to minimize patient discomfort. Dr. Curry is the most experienced Lap Band fill doctor in Ohio, having done more than 20,000 band adjustments.

Our practice was one of the earliest adopters of the new Lap Band AP (“Advanced Performance”) System, which is a 3rd generation gastric band. This new and improved band has numerous advantages over other bands, including a much softer, larger volume cuff and greater surface area contact of the cuff with the stomach. We believe this will lead to faster weight loss and even fewer complications. We use the AP system exclusively for those who chose the Lap Band System. We were the first in Ohio to place the Lap Band AP.

If you would like to learn more about the Lap Band and other surgical options, request a consultation now!