More About Gastric Banding (sometimes called Lap Banding)
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.
