Gastric banding, also known by trade names Lap-Band® and Realize® Band, is another form of bariatric surgery that we offer. The Lap-Band® was approved for use in the United States in 2001 by the FDA and has become the most popular procedure performed in the US. This is due to patient preference and should not be misconstrued by the patient deciding on the type of surgery that is the best. The patient and the surgeon should decide on which surgery is right for them and usually the patients choice is honored unless there are circumstances the surgeon feels might make a procedure less effective or safe for the patient.
The gastric band is placed around the top of the stomach and tightened to form two interconnected chambers. The smaller, upper chamber becomes the reservoir for the majority of food that is consumed. Because of the restriction the band provides, the amount of food one can eat before feeling full is reduced. This, in turn, limits the number of calories that are consumed, resulting in weight loss. The band is fully adjustable through an access port attached to the inside wall of the abdomen during surgery. The access port is invisible, however it is attached to the band, allowing the surgeon to use a special needle to inject or remove saline, tightening or loosening the band as necessary. Tightening the band allows less food to pass through, resulting in greater weight loss. Loosening the band does the opposite. If needed, the band can be removed, and studies have shown that in most cases the stomach will return to its normal shape and functionality.
The gastric band is fully adjustable and reversible. It doesn’t involve any cutting or stapling of the stomach and since the intestine is not rerouted, patients rarely need long-term vitamin supplements. However a multi-vitamin a day is recommended.
Gastric banding requires additional follow-up appointments to adjust the band and the percentage of excess weight loss is slower than that of gastric bypass patients.
Dr. Bradley D. Bilton received his graduate degree and medical doctorate in Louisiana. He then completed his residency program in General Surgery. During that time, he participated in research and is a published author and co-author. Following this he completed a fellowship in minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic and endoscopic techniques).
After completing his fellowship in 2001 he moved to Tuscaloosa and joined University Surgical Associates. Upon his arrival he ushered in advanced minimally invasive surgery and these techniques continue to be the focus of his practice.
Read these real testimonials from our clients.
MaryOur Patient
Hey my name is Mary Box. I had Gastric Bypass surgery on December 10, 2014. When I had my surgery I weighed 246 lbs. I struggled with high blood pressure and depression. I was a borderline diabetic and my cholesterol was starting to rise. My decision to have the surgery was because there are several heart problems on both sides of my family and I was so unhappy with myself. Since my surgery 14 months ago I have lost 106 lbs. I currently weigh 139 lbs. I went from a...
SandraOur Patient
My name is Sandra. I had lap band weight loss surgery in October 2013. My starting weight was 246 lbs and I have lost 75 lbs. I went from size 20-22 and am presently wearing size 10-12. I had borderline diabetes and hypertension but since the weight loss my blood pressure and my blood work are normal. I am on no medications and have no health problems secondary to obesity. I am very healthy and active. I had tried numerous diets and failed. Lap band was the right choice for...
AngelaOur Patient
Hi my name is Angela, I weighed 275 before my gastric sleeve surgery. It was the best decision I could have ever made for myself. High blood pressure, fluid around my ankles preventing me from being able to walk. High cholesterol, and just fatigued. I’m 9 months post op weighing 205lbs I have my life back! Dr. Bilton is the best!
