Lap-Band® is a restrictive type of weight reducing surgery that creates a small stomach pouch. This limits the amount of food consumed and creates an early feeling of fullness. The band, when appropriately adjusted, also confers a baseline level of satiety that helps to abolish hunger cravings. It is a major operation, but by using a laparoscopic approach the majority of our patients are able to go home on the same day as their surgery. The stomach pouch outlet opening is adjustable and can be made larger or smaller by injecting saline into a port or reservoir implanted onto the abdominal wall at the time of surgery. The port is placed beneath the fat and skin and is not visible and must be accessed by your surgeon or nurse. The Lap-Band® system has been available worldwide since 1993 and there is an abundance of clinical information available regarding its ability to safely assist patients with weight reduction. The majority of patients can expect to lose approximately 45-55% of their excess body weight within the first 2 years of using the band. The complications of band surgery are minimal as compared to traditional bypass surgery. The Lap-Band® system was FDA approved for use in the United States in June 2001. We have performed more than 400 cases, with minimal complications. Our bariatric program institutes a multi-disciplinary approach (nutritional, exercise, coaching and counseling) to the surgical treatment of this disease and we are able to provide appropriate long-term care for our patients. How Do I Qualify for LAP-BAND®?