The Lap-Band® procedure involves placing an adjustable ring or band around the upper portion of the stomach. The band is adjusted to control hunger and help patients feel full longer with smaller meal portions. The procedure is typically done laparoscopically, meaning it involves small incisions, which can lead to shorter recovery times and less pain compared to open surgery.

Dr. Machado had performed nearly 1000 Lap-band procedures and understands how to effectively utilize this tool to maximize a patient’s success.

To learn more, join Dr. Machado for a free informational webinar or call our office at 916-338-7200.

Lap-Band® provides:

Reduction in portion size

The band creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach, which fills up quickly with food, making you feel full after eating less.

Control of hunger

The clinical impact of the band seems to be that it reduces hunger, which helps the patients to decrease the amount of calories that are consumed.

No changes in anatomy

The Lap-Band® provides a restrictive method of weight loss without altering or removing any part of the stomach or intestines.

Additional Details

Controlling hunger is created gradually with adjustments or “fills.” The notion that the band is a restrictive procedure (works by restricting how much food can be consumed per meal and by restricting the emptying of the food through the band) has been challenged by studies that show the food passes rather quickly through the band, and that absence of hunger or feeling of being satisfied was not related to food remaining in the pouch above the band. What is known is that there is no malabsorption; the food is digested and absorbed as it would be normally.

The clinical impact of the band seems to be that it reduces hunger, which helps the patients to decrease the amount of calories that are consumed. It is important to understand that the band is expected to be a more gradual method to assist patients with weight loss, but when used correctly can be just as effective as other weight loss procedures.

The Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band procedure is completely reversible.

Dr. Machado has helped patients achieve success with all of the procedures.

Dr. Machado is a very experienced bariatric surgeon who approaches each patient individually. Not every patient is the same, and therefore not a single procedure is the best for everyone.

It is important to approach the decision process with an open mind and understand what tool you require to help you achieve your health and weight loss goals.

Advantages:

  • Reduces the amount of food the stomach can hold
  • Induces excess weight loss more gradually
  • Involves no cutting of the stomach or rerouting of the intestines
  • Outpatient surgery
  • Reversible and Adjustable
  • Has the lowest rate of early postoperative complications and mortality
  • Among the approved bariatric procedures
  • Has the lowest risk for vitamin/mineral deficiencies

Disadvantages:

  • Slower and less early weight loss than other surgical procedures
  • Requires a foreign device to remain in the body
  • Mechanical problems with band position or system function can occur in a small percentage of patients
  • Can result in vomiting if the patient overeats or the band is over tightened
  • Requires strict adherence to the postoperative diet and to postoperative follow-up visits

You are invited to join Dr. Machado for a free informational webinar!

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