Lap Band surgery has become a popular option for those looking to lose weight. Why is Lap Band surgery so popular? Apart from its ability to help people lose weight, there are a number of other major benefits that make it the procedure of choice for many people turning to bariatric surgery.
Lap Band Surgery is Adjustable
Unlike other bariatric surgeries,
Lap Band surgery can be adjusted according to a patient's needs. The surgery involves the use of a silicone band to create two separate sections of the patient's stomach: a large lower stomach section and a smaller upper stomach section. The smaller stomach pouch regulates the amount of food a person can eat, hence regulating caloric intake and appetite. If the size of their of these two stomach sections needs to be adjusted, that can be accomplished as needed.
Lap Band Surgery is Reversible
Also unlike other
bariatric surgery options, Lap Band surgery is completely reversible. No sections of the stomach or intestine are removed or surgically altered in any way. The only major part of the surgery is the placement of the silicone band which can be removed, restoring a person's stomach to the way it was originally.
Lap Band Surgery is Non-Invasive
Since Lap Band surgery is performed laparoscopically (performed through small incision using specialized telescopic rods), there are no major incisions required, nor is there a prolonged hospital stay. The surgery also involves no cutting, stapling, or surgical alterations of the stomach or intestines. As stated above, the only major part of the surgery is the placement of the silicone band.
Lap Band Surgery Treats More Than Just Obesity
Though the main reason people undergo
obesity surgery is to overcome significant weight gain, the surgery has also shown positive effects treating other conditions that may be tangentially related to obesity.
Studies have shown that Lap Band surgery can help patients feel less depressed or sad. This may be due in part to the weight loss experienced and the healthier lifestyle many patients have following Lap Band surgery.
In addition, Lap Band surgery has shown effects improving the quality of sleep for some patients. A study from Australia found that Lap Band surgery has helped those with sleep apnea. As weight loss can generally lessen sleep apnea in those who have it, Lap Band surgery has helped those with sleep apnea get a more satisfying night of sleep, helping to eliminate fatigue in the morning and throughout the day.