Adjustable Gastric Band
A reversible bariatric procedure using an adjustable silicone band around the stomach to restrict food intake.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
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.
Medical
Clinical Definition
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.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
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.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.
