The LAP-BAND^® System Procedure

Less invasive. Fewer risks.
Faster recovery.

With no cutting or stapling of the stomach, the LAP-BAND^® System is up to 10 times safer than more extensive weight loss surgeries, such as gastric bypass or gastric sleeve.¹ As effective as these procedures are, the LAP-BAND^® System offers fewer risks and a generally faster recovery time — so you can be back to your normal activity in usually about a week’s time.

Step by step: How it’s done

In most cases, the LAP-BAND^® System is put into place during a laparoscopic procedure, using general anesthesia. The procedure is performed using long, thin instruments inserted through a few tiny incisions (usually 0.5-1.5 cm). Often done on an outpatient basis, the surgery itself typically takes about an hour.

Specially certified surgeons — providing LAP-BAND TOTAL CARE^®

The surgeons who perform the LAP-BAND^® System procedure have been trained and certified — meeting our rigid standards for qualification. These standards include:

• Demonstrated surgical and advanced laparoscopic skills.
• Completed an Allergan training course (mandatory by the FDA).
• Performed several surgeries under the observation of an experienced LAP-BAND^® System surgeon approved to “Proctor” the case.

Additionally, Allergan offers another level of certification: LAP-BAND TOTAL CARE^®.

Surgeons dedicated to furthering their knowledge, experience and patient follow-up care are offered the LAP-BAND TOTAL CARE^® certification program. Surgeons certified with this distinction have completed training in the following areas:

• Patient education and relationship management
• Medical requirements and assessments
• Financial requirements and sources
• The LAP-BAND^® adjustable gastric banding system surgery-related issues
• Food choices and lifestyle management
• Regular adjustments and checkups
• Unsatisfactory weight loss and complications
• Whole body image