Many Live a Sedentary Lifestyle

Although physical activity is important in maintaining health and preventing obesity, less than one-third of adults in the United States participate in the recommended amount of physical activity (30 minutes most days of the week). A reported 40% of adults in the United States do not participate in any leisure time physical activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

LAP-BAND® Frequently Asked Questions

How much does LAP-BAND® surgery cost?

The cost of Lap-Band Surgery and related expenses is approximately $15,000 to $20,000 in the United States.

What if I don't have health insurance coverage for LAP-BAND® Surgery?

Many LAP-BAND® patients do not have insurance coverage but have been able to obtain financing to cover the medical expenses. Many surgeons will assist patients searching for other payment options by providing information on health care lenders and payment plans to help cover the high cost of weight loss surgery.

What age do I have to be to have LAP-BAND® Surgery?

The Lap-Band procedure is generally indicated for people who are between the ages of 18 and 55.

Will I be able to eat regular food after LAP-BAND® Surgery?

After the recovery period you will be able to eat regular food, but you will want to make sure you plan a healthy and balanced diet and avoid high-fat and high-calorie foods. There will also be some foods you will want to avoid because they tend to cause problems with LAP-BAND® patients, such as: fibrous foods, some breads, pasta, dried fruit, nuts, coconut, popcorn, and fried foods.

How does LAP-BAND® Surgery help with weight loss?

LAP-BAND Surgery helps with weight loss by restricting the amount of food you can eat at any one time. The procedure decreases food intake by creating a small upper stomach pouch that only allows a small amount of food to enter. Digestion is also slowed which helps you feel full longer.

How fast will I lose weight with LAP-BAND Surgery?

Your rate of weight loss will be largely dependent on your compliance with the LAP-BAND guidelines, including: eat only three small healthy meals a day, no snacking between meals, drink only low-calorie beverages, exercise 30 minutes a day. Although your results may vary, the average Lap-Band patient loses about 1-1/2 to 2 pounds per week and about 50% of his or her excess weight within the first year of surgery.

What are the advantages of Lap-Band Surgery?

With LAP-BAND Surgery there is no stomach cutting or intestinal rerouting. It is reversible, adjustable, and less invasive. The recovery is usually quicker, the hospital stay is usually shorter, and there is a lower chance of malnutrition. LAP-BAND patients do not get dumping syndrome. The Lap-Band procedure also has the lowest complication rate and lowest mortality rate of weight loss surgeries.

FEATURE

Your first meeting with a doctor is the perfect time to ask key questions and find out more about the procedure you want.

There is no cutting or stapling of the stomach or bypassing of the intestines with the LAP-BAND®.

Lap-Band Procedure Advantages Patient Criteria Surgery Cost Insurance Coverage Payment Options Pre-Surgery Diet Post-Op Recovery Diet Lap-Band Diet Diet Restrictions Questions to Ask BMI Calculator LAP-BAND® Videos