The lap band procedure is a surgical weight loss option that uses an adjustable silicone band on the stomach to produce a feeling of fullness. Like the gastric bypass procedure, the lap band option is a laparoscopic procedure. The surgeon makes several tiny incisions and uses long, slender instruments to implant the device. Some patients prefer the lap band because it is reversible, and it is also a very low-risk procedure. Like the gastric bypass procedure, the patient has less pain and scarring than with an open procedure. Also, the hospital stay is shortened to less than 24 hours, including overnight hospitalization.

The lap band is an adjustable silicone band that that connects to an access port below the skin by thin, kink-resistant silicone tubing. The port allows the surgeon to adjust the size of the band, customizing the weight loss process for each patient. By adding or removing saline to an inflatable balloon on the inner surface of the band, the amount and consumption rate of food can be controlled. Adjustments to the band are made during regular office visits.

Since no permanent changes are made to the body's physiology, the procedure can be reversed. If necessary, all of the system components can be removed from the body with no change to internal organs. The stomach will generally return to its original form and capacity when the band is removed.

Like the gastric bypass procedure, the success of the lap band option depends largely on the patient's dedication to fostering a lifestyle change, including a different diet. The dietitian at the Deaconess Surgical Weight Loss Center counsels each patient on the individual diet that should be followed.