Is a Lap Band Right for You? Eligibility Criteria & Weight Loss

Lap-Band surgery is a surgical procedure where a silicone band is placed around the top of the stomach in order to assist in weight loss. Deciding to undergo Lap-Band surgery is a major decision. People considering Lap-Band surgery should meet the following criteria.

Obesity

• Lap-Band surgery is intended for people who have a history of chronic obesity. Candidates for surgery have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40 or a BMI greater than 35 with other conditions resulting from their obesity.

Effort

• People who are morbidly obese are encouraged to exhaust all efforts at losing weight without surgery before considering Lap-Band surgery. Bariatric surgery is intended only for those who have put consistent effort into losing weight without success.

Commitment

• Lap-Band surgery is a lifestyle change. Patients work closely with health professionals after Lap-Band surgery to maintain compliance with diet and exercise instructions. Failure to follow recommendations can result in the Lap-Band device malfunctioning or other serious complications.

Knowledge

• Prospective candidates for Lap-Band surgery should have thorough knowledge of Lap-Band surgery including risks and benefits. Thorough knowledge of both nonsurgical and surgical alternatives is also beneficial.

Support

• A strong support system plays a crucial role in the success of Lap-Band surgery and weight loss. This is particularly true during the days, weeks and months following surgery, when physical, mental and emotional adjustments are still being made.