The Lap-Band system of weight loss is recommended for people 100 pounds or more overweight or with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 or higher. It is an adjustable Gastric Banding System that works by reducing the amount of food your stomach can hold. The theory behind the system is to help you control the amount of food you eat and support a long-term method of weight loss.

Before you decide this system is for you, there are some things you need to know first.

The Lap-Band system is not the same thing as gastric bypass surgery. The surgery required is minimal; the procedure does not require that the stomach be cut or stapled. No intestinal rerouting is required either.

An adjustable silicone plastic band is positioned around the upper portion of the stomach. The procedure is usually performed via outpatient procedure using a surgical technique known as laparoscopy, which is where the name "Lap-Band" originated.

Most patients are ready to resume normal activity levels within a week's time. The after surgery pain is greatly reduced over the gastric bypass method, and the procedure requires only small incisions so scarring is kept to a minimum. Recovery time is shortened as a result.

The Lap-Band is designed to have fewer risks and side effects than gastric bypass surgery. The mortality rate using this highly evolved technology reduces the short-term mortality rate by ten times that of gastric bypass patients.

No additional surgery is required for adjustments based on weight loss. The band is designed as a long-term treatment; however, it can be removed at anytime.

Is the Lap-Band for everyone? Do your research before deciding if this procedure is for you. The recommended age for the treatment is 18 to 60 years; it is designed for people who are 100 pounds overweight and can control their appetite as required. This is not a "magic cure," and it does require a lot from its patients.

If you do not have the willpower to curb your appetite, you will need to learn how before you undergo this treatment. If control is something you cannot achieve, this method is probably not the best-recommended treatment for you.

Patients are placed on an all-liquid diet the first couple of weeks after surgery; this is difficult for many, but it is necessary. If the diet recommendations post surgery are not followed properly, serious complications can occur including: acid reflux, pain, Lap-Band slippage, nausea, and other discomforts.

Unfortunately, for many, the Lap-Band is not cheap and therefore out of reach for many without the necessary funds or an insurance company that covers the procedure. It is disheartening that a simple procedure that can potentially help so many people is too expensive for many eligible candidates. Currently the cost ranges between $15,000 and $20,000, and that can change at any time.

Consult with your insurance provider if you have coverage to see if the procedure is covered under your plan. You might also qualify for monthly payment plans or a small personal loan.

There are also options of having the procedure performed out of the country, but you should weigh any potential savings against the travel expenses. A lot of research would be required before jumping on an airplane and running off to have surgery in a foreign country.

There are many qualified surgeons in the United States for this specific procedure. Normally extensive travel is not required for treatment. Be sure to seek a surgeon that is Board Certified.

Remember that the pounds will not come off by themselves. You will have to do your part by making healthy lifestyle changes and adopting nutritional eating habits. Be prepared for gradual, not short term, weight loss.

There is a lot of information you should research before deciding on this method of weight loss. Learn as much as you can about the procedure so that you can be knowledgeable in discussions with your caregiver. Again, this procedure is not for everyone, but it may be the perfect solution for you.

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