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 The LAP-BAND® is an FDA-approved device for weight loss. Surgical placement of the Lap-Band is performed to help severely obese patients lose significant amounts of weight. Placed laparoscopically around the upper part of the stomach, the Lap-Band restricts the amount of food a patient can eat at one time. The Lap-Band is adjustable, allowing diet intake to be controlled to optimize weight loss.
Surgical placement of a Lap-Band is considered much less risky when compared to the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. Hospital stay is shorter and return to work is faster with the Lap-Band. The patient's stomach and intestines are not bypassed so no nutritional deficiencies develop. A healthy diet low in sweets is the post-surgical recommendation.
After surgery the patient is allowed six weeks to recover prior to the first Lap-Band adjustment. Up to ten or more adjustments may be needed to reach optimal weight loss. A goal of 1-2 pounds a week of weight loss is sought and a stable weight is reached in 24-36 months.
Weight-related illnesses such as type II diabetes, hypertension and others can be improved or cured as the patient's weight loss progresses.
The Lap-Band is not for every patient. To find out if you or a loved one is a candidate for this procedure, schedule a consultation with Dr. de la Cruz-Munoz by calling (305) 856-4385.
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