Minimally Invasive Approach
During the procedure, surgeons usually use laparoscopic
techniques (using small incisions and long-shafted
instruments rather than a large incision), 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.
Safe Weight
Loss Surgery
Since there is no cutting, stapling or stomach rerouting
involved in the LAP-BAND® System procedure,
it is considered the least traumatic of all weight loss
surgeries. 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® System is the only adjustable
weight loss surgery available in the United States. The
diameter of the band is adjustable to meet your individual
needs, which can change as you lose weight. For example,
pregnant patients can expand (or loosen) 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
part is filled with saline solution which allows inflation
or deflation, therefore, making the band adjustable to the
patient's weight loss needs.
Once the band is placed, the surgeon can adjust
the band by tightening or loosening the inner part of the
band which will cause a change in the stoma size (stomach
outlet). The adjustment is done by entering the access
port with a fine needle through the skin. The adjustments
are preformed in the doctor's office or radiology suite
in a matter of minutes and it's painless. Caution: This
device is restricted to use by or on the order of a physician.
The BioEnterics LAP-BAND® System and accessories
contain no latex or natural rubber materials. The LAP-BAND®
System is Patented and Copyrighted by BioEnterics and has
been approved by the FDA.
Cosmetic Procedures
In collaboration with several area plastic
surgeons, we are pleased to offer weight related beauty
enhancement procedures. Slow weight loss combined with regular
toning exercise can decrease the "loose" appearance
of skin after extreme weight loss. Nonetheless, many patients
seek out body sculpting cosmetic procedures once they approach
their target weight. Some of the procedures formerly obese
patients might pursue include: abdominoplasty (tummy tuck),
thigh lift, body lift, breast reduction, breast augmentation,
liposuction and gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction).
