Adjustable Gastric Band

The Adjustable Gastric Band, commonly known as the Lap-Band, is a surgical weight-loss device — an inflatable silicone band placed around the upper part of the stomach. This creates a small pouch that limits food intake and slows digestion. The band can be tightened or loosened through a small port under the skin, making it adjustable to your needs.

The adjustable gastric band is a restrictive bariatric procedure where a silicone ring is laparoscopically positioned around the gastric cardia, creating a 15–30 mL proximal pouch. The inner surface of the band connects to a subcutaneous port, allowing postoperative percutaneous adjustment with saline to calibrate the stoma diameter. Weight loss is more gradual than with other bariatric procedures, with mean excess weight loss of 45–55% at 3 years. Long-term reoperation rates approach 20–30% due to band slippage, erosion, or inadequate weight loss.

The adjustable gastric band is the only reversible bariatric procedure and can be customised over time. While less commonly performed today due to newer options, it remains appropriate for selected patients. Dr. Joseph Wang can discuss whether this or other bariatric approaches best fit your needs.