Are you at least 100 pounds overweight and have been for more than 5 years? Have you considered gastric bypass, but were concerned with the associated risks? If so, this new procedure may be the solution for you. The LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding System may be able to help you take control of your weight and your life. Weight loss can improve, lower, or prevent your risk of conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, stroke, sleep apnea, hypertension, joint problems, coronary artery disease, and even cancer. The surgery is a proven procedure used worldwide, that reduces the risks associated with gastric bypass and helps most patients lose weight in a healthy, steady way. The band helps to control your hunger, so you feel full faster and stay full for longer periods of time.
The LAP-BAND system consists of an adjustable silicone ring with an inflatable inner surface that is inserted surgically and placed like a belt around the upper part of the stomach. During surgery, it is connected to an access port below the skin by thin tubing. Later, the port allows the surgeon to adjust the inner surface of the ring by adding or removing saline to inflate or deflate it. This allows you to reach the correct zone where you don't feel hungry between meals.
The LAP-BAND surgery is minimally invasive and performed laparoscopically. Once implanted, the ring creates a new, small upper stomach pouch and leaves the larger part of the stomach below. This new upper pouch only holds a small amount of food, so patients will feel full sooner. Following surgery, you will begin a new nutrition and exercise plan to help you reach your ideal weight.
Dr. Charlie Braswell, Surgeon at Medical West, said "This surgery is a very effective tool for weight loss, and has a much lower complication rate than other available procedures. Another benefit of this surgery is that it is both adjustable and reversible."
Dr. Braswell is currently performing the LAP-BAND procedure. For more information or to see if you are a candidate for this new form of weight loss, please call (205) 481-7485.