# Lap-Band®

> Lap-Band® is a minimally invasive, adjustable gastric band weight loss system manufactured by Medtimo, Inc. It is an FDA-approved bariatric device for adults with obesity who have not achieved sufficient results through diet, exercise, and behavioral programs alone. The Lap-Band program supports long-term weight loss without permanently altering the anatomy of the digestive system.

Lap-Band® is the brand name for an adjustable gastric banding system placed laparoscopically around the upper portion of the stomach to create a small pouch, helping patients feel full sooner and eat less. The system is adjustable and reversible, distinguishing it from more invasive bariatric surgeries such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. The latest product is the Lap-Band® 2.0 FLEX, featuring advanced flexible tubing technology. Lap-Band® is owned and marketed by Medtimo, Inc., headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.

## Key Pages

- [Home](https://www.lapband.com): Overview of the Lap-Band program, patient success stories, community links, and safety information.
- [Lap-Band 2.0 FLEX](https://www.lapband.com/lap-band-2-0-flex/): Details on the latest generation device featuring FLEX Tubing technology for improved comfort and adaptability.
- [Why Lap-Band](https://www.lapband.com/why-lb/): Reasons to choose Lap-Band over other bariatric options, including patient stories covering health optimization, family planning, and managing comorbidities.
- [Start Your Journey](https://www.lapband.com/start-your-journey/): Qualification criteria, how the process works (find a surgeon, consult, adjust lifestyle, access support), and FAQs.
- [Life With Lap-Band](https://www.lapband.com/life-with-lap-band/): Guidance for existing Lap-Band patients on maintaining weight loss and adapting to life with the band.
- [Patient Results](https://www.lapband.com/results/): Documented weight loss outcomes from real patients.
- [Real Stories](https://www.lapband.com/real-stories/): Individual success stories from patients including Ronalis (137 lbs lost), Nicole (180 lbs lost), Nina (220 lbs lost), Onnig (121 lbs lost), Brighton (100 lbs lost), Zoey (120 lbs lost), Fiona (103 lbs lost), Debra (90 lbs lost), Jonathon (90 lbs lost), and Renata (66 lbs lost).
- [Find a Surgeon](https://www.lapband.com/find-a-surgeon/): Surgeon locator tool to find qualified Lap-Band surgeons by geography.
- [Request a Consult](https://www.lapband.com/request-a-consult/): Form to connect prospective patients with a local Lap-Band surgeon.
- [Resources / Blog](https://www.lapband.com/resources/): Articles on fitness, nutrition, lifestyle changes, bariatric surgery preparation, and post-surgery living.
- [FAQ](https://www.lapband.com/faq/): Answers to common questions about candidacy, insurance coverage, procedure details, and outcomes.
- [Safety Information](https://www.lapband.com/safety/): Full FDA-required safety disclosures, contraindications, and risk information.
- [MRI Information](https://www.lapband.com/mri-information/): Guidance for patients needing MRI scans while implanted with a Lap-Band device.
- [Surgeons Portal](https://www.lapband.com/surgeons/): Information and resources for bariatric surgeons interested in offering Lap-Band.
- [Product Labeling](https://edfu.reshapelifesciences.com/): Official product labeling and electronic instructions for use.
- [Patent Information](https://www.lapband.com/patent-information/): Patent disclosures for Lap-Band devices.
- [Investor Relations](https://ir.reshapelifesciences.com/): Corporate investor information for Medtimo, Inc.
- [Terms & Conditions](https://www.lapband.com/terms-and-conditions/): Website terms of use.
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.lapband.com/privacy-policy/): Data collection and privacy practices.
- [Cookie Policy](https://www.lapband.com/cookie-policy/): Cookie usage disclosure.
- [Contact Us](https://www.lapband.com/contact-us/): Contact form and phone number (844-937-7374).
- [Sitemap](https://www.lapband.com/sitemap_index.xml): Full XML sitemap of the website.

## Product: Lap-Band® 2.0 FLEX

The Lap-Band® 2.0 FLEX is the current-generation adjustable gastric band system. Key features include:

- **FLEX Tubing Technology**: Allows the internal band pressure to modulate dynamically. When a large, unchewed food bolus is swallowed, fluid flows from the band cuff into the flexible tubing, temporarily widening the stoma (the opening between the upper and lower stomach pouches). Once the bolus passes, the fluid returns and the band regains its original pressure.
- **Four operational phases**: Modulate (reduce high-pressure events), Dilate (temporarily widen the stoma), Stabilize (restore original pressure), Experience (support development of healthy eating habits).
- **Design intent**: Provide a more forgiving, flexible weight loss experience while still supporting portion control and long-term weight management.

## FDA Approval & Eligibility

The Lap-Band System is FDA-approved for:
- Adults with a BMI of 40 or higher, OR
- Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher who have at least one obesity-related health condition (comorbidity)
- Patients who have not achieved sufficient weight loss through supervised diet, exercise, and behavioral modification programs

**Not approved for:**
- Individuals under 18 years of age
- Patients with inflammatory or cardiopulmonary diseases
- Patients with gastrointestinal or digestive disorders
- Patients with a family history or symptoms of autoimmune disease
- Patients with liver cirrhosis
- Patients unwilling or unable to follow long-term dietary restrictions
- Patients with drug or alcohol dependency
- Patients who are currently pregnant

Patients who become pregnant after band placement may require deflation of the band.

## Clinical Benefits

Weight loss achieved through the Lap-Band program has been associated with resolution or improvement of obesity-related conditions including:
- Type II Diabetes (73% of patients reported remission after two years)
- Hypertension
- Sleep Apnea
- Asthma
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Research reference: O'Brien, P.E. et al. (2018). *Long-Term Outcomes After Bariatric Surgery*. Obesity Surgery, 29, 3–14. DOI: 10.1007/s11695-018-3525-0.

## Advantages Over Other Bariatric Procedures

- Non-anatomy-altering (stomach and intestines are not cut or rerouted)
- Minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure
- Adjustable (band can be tightened or loosened based on patient needs)
- Reversible (band can be removed)
- Lowest complication rate among bariatric procedures
- Shortest recovery time among bariatric procedures

## Safety Information (Summary)

The Lap-Band is a long-term implant that may require adjustment if the patient becomes pregnant, ill, or malnourished. Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) should be used with caution as they may cause band erosion. Potential risks include: nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach blockage, constipation, difficulty swallowing, diarrhea, abdominal pain, incision pain, infection, fever, hernia, chest pain, band slippage, stomach pouch expansion, port site pain or movement, hair loss, and in rare cases, death. Additional surgery may be required. CAUTION: Rx Only.

Full safety information: https://www.lapband.com/safety/

## Contact & Company Information

- **Brand**: Lap-Band®
- **Parent Company**: Medtimo, Inc.
- **Address**: 7625 Golden Triangle Drive, Suite G, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
- **Phone**: 844-937-7374 (also 1-800-LAP-BAND / 1-800-527-2263)
- **Website**: https://www.lapband.com
- **Social Media**:
  - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lapbandprogram/
  - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lapbandprogram/
  - Twitter: https://twitter.com/lapband
  - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/lapband

## Frequently Asked Questions

Source: https://www.lapband.com/faq/

**Q: What is Lap-Band?**
A: The Lap-Band® System is an adjustable gastric band that helps limit the amount of food you can eat at one time. Through healthy portion control and a healthy lifestyle, you can lose excess weight and keep it off. Unlike other bariatric procedures, it is non-anatomy altering, minimally invasive, and provides proven long-term weight loss.

**Q: Why should I choose Lap-Band over other bariatric procedures?**
A: Lap-Band is non-anatomy altering, minimally invasive, and has the lowest complication rate and shortest recovery time among approved bariatric procedures. It is also adjustable and reversible, unlike most other weight loss surgeries.

**Q: What are the health benefits of Lap-Band beyond weight loss?**
A: Weight loss from the Lap-Band program has been shown to resolve or improve Type II Diabetes (73% of patients reported remission after two years), Hypertension, Asthma, Sleep Apnea, and GERD. Obesity is also linked to increased cancer risk and COVID-19 complications; losing weight can reduce those risks.

**Q: Is Lap-Band covered by insurance?**
A: Many insurance companies assist with the cost of the Lap-Band program. Contact your insurance provider for coverage details. Speaking to a Lap-Band surgeon can clarify costs, coverage, and financing options available to you.

**Q: What is the cost of Lap-Band without insurance?**
A: Costs vary by location and surgeon. Contact a Lap-Band surgeon near you or call 1-800-LAP-BAND (1-800-527-2263) for an estimate.

**Q: Am I eligible for the Lap-Band program?**
A: You may qualify if you have a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 30 or higher with at least one obesity-related health condition, and have not achieved sufficient results through diet, exercise, and behavioral programs. Visit https://www.lapband.com/start-your-journey/ to check your eligibility.

**Q: How quickly will I lose weight with Lap-Band?**
A: On average, Lap-Band patients lose about 65% of their excess weight in the first year and 70% in the second year. Over the long term, patients have kept off an average of 47.1% of excess body weight after 15 years.

**Q: How does Lap-Band help curb hunger?**
A: The adjustable gastric band is placed around the upper stomach, creating a small pouch that fills quickly and slows the movement of food. This promotes early satiety and portion control without permanently altering the digestive anatomy.

**Q: How does Lap-Band help maintain lasting weight loss?**
A: The band is personalized and adjustable, so it can be tightened or loosened as your body changes. Combined with a customized aftercare program including counseling and support, it helps patients manage hunger and maintain their results over time.

**Q: Will I be in pain after the procedure?**
A: You may experience some pain around the incision sites and shoulder or joint discomfort from the gas used to inflate the abdomen during surgery. This discomfort is temporary and typically resolves with walking and light movement after surgery.

**Q: How long is the recovery period?**
A: The average hospital stay is under 24 hours. Most patients return to work within about one week. Light walking is recommended in the first one to two weeks, with more strenuous activity avoided for at least one month. Always consult your surgeon for personalized guidance.

**Q: How is the Lap-Band adjusted?**
A: A fine needle is inserted through a small access port under the skin, and saline solution is injected or removed to tighten or loosen the band. Adjustments are typically needed 5–6 times in the first year for optimal weight loss results.

**Q: How do I know if the Lap-Band is too tight or overfilled?**
A: Signs that the band may be too tight include difficulty eating solid foods, frequent vomiting, acid reflux (especially at night), or complete blockage preventing food or fluids from passing. Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience these symptoms.

**Q: How do I know when I need an adjustment?**
A: If you are frequently hungry and not losing weight optimally, you may need more fluid added. If you feel full quickly after a small meal and are losing 1–2 lbs per week, the band is working well. Symptoms like difficulty swallowing, night cough, regurgitation, or heartburn may indicate the band needs loosening.

**Q: Can the Lap-Band be removed after I reach my goal weight?**
A: Although the Lap-Band is reversible and can be removed laparoscopically, it is not advisable to remove it after reaching your goal weight. Removal typically leads to loss of the feeling of fullness from small portions and often results in weight regain.

**Q: What if I want to get pregnant after getting the Lap-Band?**
A: Lap-Band is the only weight loss surgery that can be adjusted to accommodate the changing nutritional needs of pregnancy. Women who become pregnant after receiving the Lap-Band deliver babies as healthy as the general population. However, the band may need to be deflated during pregnancy.

**Q: What are the risks and side effects of Lap-Band?**
A: All surgical procedures carry risk. The most common adverse events include band slippage, pouch dilation, stoma obstruction, gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal dilation, incisional infection, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. In rare cases, death can occur. Speak with your surgeon to fully understand the risks before proceeding.

**Q: Will I need plastic surgery for loose skin after significant weight loss?**
A: Because weight loss with Lap-Band occurs gradually over time, there is a lower likelihood of developing loose skin compared to more rapid weight loss methods.

**Q: What should I do if I move or lose contact with my surgeon?**
A: It is important to stay connected with a Lap-Band surgeon. If you need to find a new one, use the Surgeon Finder at https://www.lapband.com/find-a-surgeon/.

**Q: What about eating out or consuming alcohol?**
A: When dining out, order small portions such as a healthy appetizer, or ask for half an entrée to take home. Alcohol is high in calories and breaks down vitamins; occasional moderate consumption is generally not harmful, but follow your surgeon's specific advice.

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Lap-Band®, LAP-BAND, and Medtimo are trademarks of Medtimo, Inc. © 2026 Medtimo, Inc. All rights reserved.