Weight loss: Slow and gradual. Lose 40-50% of excess body weight in 24 or more months.
Surgery time: Less than one hour
Hospital stay: Typically discharged same day
Recovery time: About 10 days
Patients at Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber who are interested in weight loss surgery have several options: gastric bypass surgery, gastric sleeve surgery, or adjustable gastric band procedure (LAP-BAND).
During the adjustable gastric band procedure, a thin, inflatable ring (gastric band) is placed around the upper part of your stomach, forming a small pouch with a narrow opening to the lower stomach. This significantly limits the amount of food that can be eaten at one time, which helps you to feel fuller sooner. The size of the stomach opening can be adjusted by filling the band with sterile saline, which is injected through a port placed under the skin.
The effectiveness of adjustable gastric banding depends more on your ability to change your eating behavior and lifestyle, so you must be consistent about making healthy food choices and exercising regularly. Regular visits with a dietitian, counseling, and support groups are encouraged.
The procedure is usually performed laparoscopically using minimally invasive surgical techniques.
Do you have questions about the adjustable gastric band procedure? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are ready to help you begin your weight loss journey today! Call 814-467-3653 or email windbersurgery@windbercare.org.