Lap Band Surgery: What You Need to Know
The procedure known as Lap-Band Surgery consists of a laparascopic adjustable gastric band. This procedure was widely used outside the United States (Europe and Australia) before being approved by the FDA in 2001. This procedure has become more popular because it is considerably less invasive than gastric bypass. The Lap-Band has also shorter follow-up periods. The procedure involves placing an adjustable silicon belt around the top of the stomach causing restriction. A saline solution is injected into the port which inflates the band, making the lower part of the stomach smaller. The small stomach restricts food intake, causing a "feeling of fullness" or satiety. Eventually, the patient eats less and loses weight.
Lap Band cost factors
The cost of Lap-Band surgery varies from country to country. The medical tourism in Mexico charges for $8,500 to $11,000. Lab-Band surgery in European countries (United Kingdom, Italy, Sweden, and Belgium) costs about $11,000 to $16,000. Cost for the same procedure in the United States ranges from $17,000 to $30,000, depending on the State you live in. When considering a Lap-Band procedure, always consult a highly qualified surgeon. Make sure that you also confirm the number of Lap-Band procedures your surgeon has done. This will reduce your risk of post-operative complications and will also ensure you lose as much weight as you can.
