LAP-BAND® Fills and Gastric Band Adjustments
Gastric banding surgery with LAP-BAND® adjustable gastric band can assist in weight loss by restricting food intake and allowing patients to feel full with smaller portions. Gastric band patients may periodically require gastric band adjustments, commonly known as LAP-BAND® fills. At St. Louis Bariatrics, we offer LAP-BAND® fills for patients who are experiencing weight gain, stalled weight loss, or increased hunger. Gastric band patients who are experiencing discomfort, pain, vomiting, or frequent heartburn may be in need of a band adjustment. We also have band adjustment appointments available for patients who had their gastric band procedure at another practice.
How Are LAP-BAND® Fills Performed?
The LAP-BAND® is a thin ring that is placed around the stomach to create a small pouch in the upper portion of the stomach. The band is hollow and has a small tube with an access port that can be filled with saline. When the band is filled, it tightens to increase the restriction around the stomach.
Dr. Jay Michael Snow is highly experienced in LAP-BAND® placement and band adjustments. A small needle will be used to access the port in your abdomen and fill it with saline. At St. Louis Bariatrics, we always utilize fluoroscopy, which is an advanced type of x-raying, for band fills and adjustments. This increases the accuracy of your adjustment and reduces the chance of issues locating the port.
Frequently Asked Questions About LAP-BAND® Fills
What can I do if my original gastric band doctor is not available?
It can be difficult to find a doctor to perform your band adjustment if your original gastric band surgeon is no longer in practice or you have moved from the area in which you had your procedure. In the St. Louis area, LAP-BAND® patients can contact Dr. Snow. We are happy to see new patients for band adjustments, even if you had your gastric band surgery somewhere else.
How do I know if I need fluid removed from my band?
If a patient’s gastric band is too tight, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms. Signs that your gastric band may be too tight and needs an adjustment include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pain
- Frequent heartburn
- Difficulty eating
How will I know if I need a LAP-BAND® fill?
Some signs that you may need a gastric band fill include:
- Weight loss has stalled before you reach your goal weight
- You have gained weight
- You feel hungrier than usual and are not satisfied by healthy portions
In general, gastric band patients can expect to lose 1 to 2 pounds per week until they reach a healthy weight and should feel satisfied by small, nutritious meals.
Does it hurt to get a LAP-BAND® fill?
The LAP-BAND® fill is typically a quick, simple procedure with little to no discomfort. There are no incisions needed and the band is filled using a needle. The fluoroscopy machine is used in order to better locate and access the port.
What if I want my LAP-BAND® removed?
A LAP-BAND® fill may be a solution if you are generally satisfied with your gastric band, but you have experienced a recent stall in weight loss or spike in hunger. However, patients who have experienced gastric band complications and those who have not had satisfactory weight loss may choose to have their LAP-BAND® removed. At St. Louis Bariatrics, Dr. Snow offers several gastric band revision options, including band removal, band repositioning, or band removal with conversion to sleeve gastrectomy. A consultation appointment at St. Louis Bariatrics can give you the opportunity to speak with an expert and learn more about your options.
Contact St. Louis Bariatrics For LAP-BAND® Fills
At St. Louis Bariatrics, we pride ourselves on comprehensive patient care. Contact us if you have any questions about LAP-BAND® fills or if you would like to schedule a consultation appointment.
