Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is an increasingly popular bariatric procedure at Valley Surgical RGV. We are an experienced provider of weight loss and bariatric procedures. LAGB offers patients struggling with obesity an effective noninvasive solution compared to traditional forms of weight loss surgery.

At Valley Surgical RGV, we have spent years honing our expertise, offering comprehensive bariatric solutions, from laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery and sleeve gastrectomy to mini gastric bypass, revision surgeries, and much more.

Understanding Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB) is an approach to weight loss surgical procedure that works on the principle of restriction. LAGB utilizes a silicone band to constrict the upper portion of your stomach, effectively creating a small pouch. This pouch drastically limits how much food can fit inside at one time, allowing more significant caloric intake reduction and, ultimately, weight loss.

LAGB stands apart from more invasive procedures like laparoscopic gastric bypass because it is fully reversible and less invasive. It eliminates cutting, staples, or permanent alteration to stomach tissue, significantly decreasing post-operative complications and recovery time.

Research confirms the efficacy of the LAGB surgical procedure. A critical study provided detailed outcomes for LAGB patients who underwent this procedure. It found significant weight loss and improved quality of life post-surgical procedure. From the study, mortality rates for obesity-related conditions decreased and weight reduction, implying overall health improvement and longevity.

LAGB is a formidable and efficient surgical intervention for those searching for sustainable weight management.

The Procedure

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB) is a delicate procedure performed by highly qualified surgeons at Valley Surgical RGV. The surgeon makes small incisions in your abdomen to install a silicone band around the upper portion of your stomach. This creates two sections – an upper pouch and a more significant lower portion while decreasing capacity in both. As a result, food intake decreases considerably and creates feelings of fullness after only small amounts have been eaten.

Keyly, the silicone band is adjustable. It connects to a port placed under the skin, allowing injection and withdrawal of saline solution to modify the band’s tightness depending on the patient’s progress and comfort.

Due to laparoscopic techniques being utilized during a surgical procedure, minimally invasive approaches such as this one has the advantage of quicker healing times. It also reduces post-operative discomfort for the patient.

Is LAGB Right for You?

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB), and other weight loss surgical procedures, are major decisions that should not be taken lightly. LAGB candidates generally include adults with a BMI of 40 or above and one or more obesity-related health complications such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or heart disease.

Although these criteria alone don’t determine suitability, your overall health status, lifestyle, and commitment to post-operative care and changes also play a part in determining suitability. At Valley Surgical RGV, our knowledgeable physicians conduct an in-depth evaluation considering your medical history, current health status, weight loss goals, and desired surgical procedures. This may include lab tests, psychological evaluation, and nutrition and exercise habits discussions.

An integral step in ensuring LAGB or any other weight loss surgical procedure proposed is the optimal option for your unique situation. Our approach caters specifically to meeting each person’s individual needs and circumstances. We aim to assist in the journey toward successful and safe weight loss.

Potential Risks and Benefits

As with any surgical procedure, Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB) comes with risks and rewards. Therefore, it’s essential that any prospective LAGB patients fully comprehend these before proceeding with surgery.

Complications associated with band slippage or erosion could include band movement outside its intended position, erosion through stomach wall wear-and-tear, and infection or intolerance of the band itself. Besides, rare but serious side effects from surgical procedures, such as liver or bowel damage, could occur.

As stated by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, LAGB surgery often outweighs its risks for many patients. These benefits include weight loss and improvement of related medical issues such as diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension, as well as improved quality of life overall.

LAGB’s success largely relies on a patient’s commitment to healthier lifestyles. For example, adopting a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity is critical. LAGB should be an aid toward weight loss rather than an end solution in itself.

Aftercare and Follow-Up

Care after a surgical procedure is crucial to successful results for any surgical procedure, including Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding. At Valley Surgical RGV in McAllen, Texas, aftercare plans are tailored specifically for every patient to ensure a smooth recovery experience. These include customized diet plans to promote weight loss while improving metabolic function and frequent check-ins to monitor progress.

Our specialists excel at wound care management and skin grafts when necessary. In case of complications, skilled surgeons conduct necessary follow-up endoscopies or exploratory laparotomies as necessary to ensure patient health remains the priority during this journey.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding can empower those struggling with obesity. It provides an alternative yet less-invasive weight-loss method. Before considering this procedure, a professional bariatric surgeon must assess whether this procedure will work for you.

At Valley Surgical RGV, our surgeons are committed to providing exceptional weight loss and bariatric surgery care, offering various surgical options tailored to individual needs. Our FAQ page is an invaluable resource if you have any queries.

So, are you ready to take the next step on your weight loss journey? Please contact our team now, so we can arrange a consultation and explain our approach to Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB). Let your journey towards healthier living start now.