Gastric Banding also known as the LAP-BAND was approved in 2001 by the FDA. The silicone band is placed around the upper part of the stomach. It has an inflatable balloon that cinches around the stomach and allows patients to be less hungry and to eat less at each meal. The band is inflated with saline using a needle that goes thru the skin into the band port. The port is secured under the skin so that nothing is visible. Percent of excess weight loss at five years is 50-55%. Follow-up is crucial with the band as adjustments are usually necessary the first year and sometimes in the second year as well.
