Although the MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center does not perform LAP-BAND placement surgery, our expert bariatric surgeons specialize in safe and effective LAP-BAND removal procedures. Whether you're experiencing complications, inadequate weight loss, or simply need to transition to a more effective weight-loss solution, our experienced team is here to help you on your continued journey to better health.
Definition
LAP-BAND removal surgery is a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure designed to safely remove an adjustable gastric band that was previously placed around the upper portion of the stomach. The gastric band, also known as the LAP-BAND System or REALIZE Band, is an inflatable silicone device that was originally used to help patients achieve weight loss by restricting food intake. However, when complications arise or the device is no longer serving its intended purpose, removal becomes necessary.
The removal procedure is performed laparoscopically, meaning your surgeon will use small incisions and specialized instruments to carefully detach and remove the band, along with the access port that was placed under your skin. This approach minimizes scarring, reduces recovery time, and allows many patients to explore more effective weight-loss options, often during the same surgical session.
There are several reasons why patients may need or choose to have their adjustable gastric band removed. Understanding these reasons can help you recognize if removal might be the right decision for you:
Inadequate Weight Loss: Many patients find that the LAP-BAND does not help them achieve or maintain their desired weight-loss goals. If you've experienced insufficient weight loss despite following dietary guidelines and attending regular band adjustments, removal and conversion to a more effective procedure, such as gastric sleeve surgery or gastric bypass surgery, may be recommended.
Weight Regain: Some patients initially lose weight with the LAP-BAND but later experience significant weight regain. This can occur when the stomach pouch stretches over time or when patients develop eating patterns that work around the restriction. For these patients, revision weight-loss surgery may be an effective solution.
Medical Complications: LAP-BAND complications can range from mild discomfort to serious medical issues requiring prompt intervention. Common complications include:
- Band Slippage: The band may move out of position, causing the stomach to slip up through the band opening
- Band Erosion: The band can gradually erode through the stomach wall, a serious condition requiring immediate removal
- Port Problems: The access port may flip, migrate, or become infected
- Esophageal Issues: Chronic heartburn, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, or esophageal dilation
- Pouch Dilation: The upper stomach pouch can stretch beyond its intended size
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Persistent reflux that doesn't improve with medication
Lifestyle and Quality of Life Concerns: Some patients find that living with a LAP-BAND significantly impacts their quality of life. Persistent food intolerances, the need for frequent adjustments, dietary restrictions, and ongoing discomfort can make band removal an attractive option, even when serious complications haven't occurred.
You should consult with your bariatric surgeon about LAP-BAND removal if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent vomiting or difficulty keeping food down
- Severe heartburn or acid reflux that doesn't respond to medication
- Chest pain or difficulty swallowing
- Port site pain, redness, or signs of infection
- Regaining most or all of the weight you initially lost
- Lack of weight loss despite following your program guidelines
- Changes in your quality of life due to band-related restrictions
Early intervention when problems arise can prevent more serious complications from developing. Our team at MemorialCare encourages open communication about any concerns you may have regarding your LAP-BAND.
Procedure Details
Preparing for LAP-BAND removal at MemorialCare involves several important steps to ensure the safest possible procedure and optimal recovery:
Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation at the MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center. During this visit, your surgeon will review your medical history, discuss your reasons for removal, and examine any complications you may be experiencing. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and discuss whether you'd like to consider converting to another weight-loss procedure during the same operation.
Medical Testing: You'll undergo pre-operative testing, which may include blood work, imaging studies, and potentially an upper GI series or endoscopy to evaluate the position of your band and assess for any potential complications, such as erosion. These tests help your surgical team plan the safest approach for your specific situation.
Nutritional Counseling: Even if you're planning band removal without immediate conversion to another procedure, meeting with our nutritionist is beneficial. They can provide guidance on maintaining your current weight and preparing nutritionally for surgery.
Pre-Surgery Instructions: In the days leading up to your procedure, you'll receive specific instructions about:
- When to stop eating and drinking before surgery (typically nothing after midnight the night before)
- Which medications to continue or temporarily stop
- What to bring to the hospital for your short stay
- Arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure
Lifestyle Adjustments: If you smoke, your surgeon will strongly recommend quitting at least several weeks before surgery, as smoking can impair healing and increase complication risks. You may also be asked to lose a small amount of weight before surgery if medically advisable.
LAP-BAND removal surgery at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center is performed using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques by our experienced bariatric surgeons who have performed more than 12,500 weight-loss surgeries.
The Procedure Steps:
Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so you'll be comfortably asleep throughout the surgery and won't feel anything during the operation.
Laparoscopic Access: Your surgeon will make several small incisions (typically 4-5 incisions, each less than an inch long) in your abdomen. A laparoscope, a thin tube with a tiny camera, is inserted through one of these incisions, allowing your surgeon to view your internal anatomy on high-definition monitors.
Band Removal: Using specialized instruments inserted through the small incisions, your surgeon will carefully locate the gastric band, detach it from the surrounding tissue, and remove it. Any scar tissue that has formed around the band is also addressed. The access port, which was placed under your skin and connected to the band via tubing, is also removed during this process.
Inspection and Repair: Once the band is removed, your surgeon will carefully inspect your stomach for any damage, such as erosion. If any complications are found, they will be addressed during the same procedure. Most patients' stomachs return to normal function after the band is removed.
Optional Conversion: If you've chosen to have a revision weight-loss procedure during the same operation, your surgeon will proceed with either gastric sleeve surgery or gastric bypass surgery. This approach can save you from needing a separate surgery in the future.
Closure: The small incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue, resulting in minimal scarring.
The LAP-BAND removal procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, though the time may vary depending on whether additional procedures are performed simultaneously and the complexity of your individual case.
Recovery from LAP-BAND removal is generally straightforward, especially when compared to the initial placement of the band. Here's what you can expect:
Hospital Stay: Following your LAP-BAND removal, you'll have a short stay at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center, typically overnight for observation. This allows our nursing team to monitor your recovery, manage any postoperative discomfort, and ensure you're able to tolerate liquids before discharge.
Immediate Postoperative Period (Days 1-3):
- You may experience some mild to moderate pain at the incision sites, which is well-managed with prescribed pain medications
- Most patients can begin walking the same day as surgery, which helps prevent blood clots and promotes healing
- You'll start with a clear liquid diet, gradually progressing to full liquids as tolerated
- Some fatigue and tenderness in the abdominal area is normal
First Two Weeks:
- Most patients can return to light activities and non-strenuous work within 7-10 days
- You'll progress through dietary stages as directed by your nutritionist, typically moving from liquids to soft foods
- Avoid heavy lifting (anything over 10-15 pounds) and strenuous exercise
- Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to check your healing progress
Weeks 2-6:
- Most patients can gradually return to normal activities and diet
- Continue to avoid very heavy lifting or intense core exercises until cleared by your surgeon
- If you had a revision procedure performed simultaneously, your recovery timeline will follow the guidelines for that specific surgery
Long-Term Recovery: After LAP-BAND removal without conversion to another procedure, many patients find that symptoms like heartburn, reflux, and difficulty swallowing resolve fairly quickly. Your stomach will gradually return to its normal shape and function over several months. However, it's important to note that LAP-BAND removal alone will not help you lose weight and may result in weight gain if not managed carefully through diet and exercise.
If you underwent a conversion to a gastric sleeve or gastric bypass during the same operation, you'll follow the recovery and dietary protocols specific to your new procedure. You can expect to begin losing weight again as your body adjusts to the new surgical intervention.
Your dietary needs after LAP-BAND removal depend on whether you had a conversion procedure performed at the same time:
LAP-BAND Removal Only: If you only had the band removed, you'll progress relatively quickly from liquids to your regular diet, typically within 2-3 weeks. However, without the restriction provided by the band, you'll need to be especially mindful of portion control and healthy eating habits to prevent weight regain. Working with a nutritionist can help you develop sustainable eating patterns.
LAP-BAND Removal with Conversion: If you had gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery during the same operation, you'll follow the comprehensive dietary protocol for your new procedure, which typically involves several phases progressing from liquids to solids over several weeks to months. Our dedicated nutrition team will guide you through each phase.
Risks & Benefits
LAP-BAND removal offers numerous benefits, particularly for patients experiencing complications or dissatisfaction with their current device:
Relief from Complications: The most immediate benefit is the resolution of LAP-BAND-related complications. Patients often experience relief from chronic heartburn, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, and abdominal discomfort once the band is removed. Medical issues, such as band erosion, slippage, or port infections, are completely resolved.
Improved Quality of Life: Many patients report a significant improvement in their overall quality of life after removal. The freedom from dietary restrictions, the ability to eat a wider variety of foods without discomfort, and the elimination of the need for regular band adjustments can be life-changing.
Opportunity for More Effective Weight Loss: For patients who did not achieve their weight-loss goals with the LAP-BAND, removal opens the door to conversion procedures that have demonstrated higher success rates. Gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass surgery typically result in greater and more sustained weight loss than adjustable gastric banding.
Minimally Invasive Approach: The laparoscopic technique used at MemorialCare means smaller incisions, less scarring, reduced postoperative pain, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Same-Day Conversion Option: One of the unique benefits offered at MemorialCare is the ability to have your LAP-BAND removed and a new weight-loss procedure performed during the same operation. This saves you from needing two separate surgeries, reduces overall recovery time, and allows you to continue your weight-loss journey without interruption.
Expert Care: At MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center, you benefit from the expertise of recognized leaders in bariatric and revision surgery with extensive experience in complex LAP-BAND removals and conversions.
While LAP-BAND removal is generally considered a safe procedure, all surgeries carry some degree of risk. Understanding these potential complications helps you make an informed decision:
General Surgical Risks:
- Bleeding during or after surgery
- Infection at incision sites or internally
- Blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism)
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia
- Pneumonia or other respiratory complications
LAP-BAND Removal-Specific Risks:
- Stomach Injury: Although rare, there is a small risk of accidentally injuring the stomach wall during band removal, particularly if significant scarring or erosion is present
- Conversion to Open Surgery: In complex cases with extensive scarring or adhesions, your surgeon may need to convert from laparoscopic to open surgery, which involves a larger incision
- Incomplete Removal: In very rare cases, small pieces of tubing or port materials may be difficult to locate and remove
- Delayed Healing: If band erosion has occurred, the stomach may require additional time to heal properly
Weight-Related Risks: If you choose LAP-BAND removal without converting to another weight-loss procedure, there is a significant risk of weight regain. Without the restriction provided by the band or another bariatric procedure, many patients find it challenging to maintain their weight loss through diet and exercise alone.
How MemorialCare Minimizes Your Risk: Our experienced surgical team takes numerous precautions to minimize these risks, including thorough preoperative evaluation, advanced laparoscopic techniques, careful intraoperative monitoring, and comprehensive postoperative follow-up care. Choosing a surgeon with extensive experience in revision bariatric surgery, like those at MemorialCare's Surgical Weight Loss Center, significantly reduces complication rates.
LAP-BAND removal surgery has a high success rate, particularly when performed by experienced bariatric surgeons. Most patients experience complete resolution of their LAP-BAND-related complications following removal.
Complication Resolution: Studies indicate that over 90% of patients who undergo LAP-BAND removal due to complications experience significant improvement or complete resolution of their symptoms, including reflux, difficulty swallowing, and port-related issues.
Conversion Success: For patients who opt for a revision procedure during the same operation, success rates are highly encouraging. Gastric sleeve and gastric bypass procedures typically result in significant weight loss, with patients losing 60-70% or more of their excess body weight within the first two years after conversion.
Patient Satisfaction: Patient satisfaction rates with LAP-BAND removal are generally very high, particularly among those who had been experiencing complications. The relief from chronic symptoms and the opportunity for more effective weight loss contribute to positive outcomes.
At MemorialCare, our team's extensive experience with more than 12,500 weight-loss surgeries contributes to excellent outcomes and high patient satisfaction rates. However, individual results vary based on factors such as your overall health, commitment to lifestyle changes, and whether you choose to undergo a conversion procedure.
Your Next Steps with MemorialCare
Every patient's weight-loss journey is unique. If you're experiencing complications with your LAP-BAND, haven't achieved your desired weight-loss goals, or are simply ready to explore more effective options, the team at MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center is here to support you.
Our bariatric specialists will work with you to understand your specific needs, evaluate your current situation, and develop a personalized treatment plan that's right for you. Whether you need simple LAP-BAND removal or are interested in converting to gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery, we'll guide you through every step of the process. Learn more about obesity and weight management.
Contact our team at the MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center at (714) 378-7622 or request a consultation to learn more and explore your options. Don't give up on your weight-loss goals. MemorialCare is here for you.
FAQs about LAP-BAND Removal Surgery
LAP-BAND removal is performed under general anesthesia, so you won't feel any pain during the procedure. After surgery, most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort at the incision sites, which is effectively managed with prescription pain medication. Many patients describe the pain as less intense than their original LAP-BAND placement surgery. The pain typically improves significantly within the first few days and continues to decrease over the following weeks.
LAP-BAND removal surgery typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of your case and whether additional procedures are performed simultaneously. Factors that can affect surgery duration include the amount of scar tissue present, whether band erosion has occurred, and whether you're having a conversion to a gastric sleeve or a gastric bypass during the same operation. Your surgeon will give you a more specific time estimate during your consultation.
Yes, absolutely. In fact, many patients at MemorialCare choose to have a revision weight-loss procedure performed during the same operation as their LAP-BAND removal. Common options include gastric sleeve surgery or gastric bypass surgery. These procedures have demonstrated higher success rates for long-term weight loss compared to gastric banding. Your surgeon will discuss your options and help you determine the best approach based on your health, weight-loss goals, and personal circumstances.
Insurance coverage for LAP-BAND removal varies depending on your specific plan and the medical necessity of the procedure. Many insurance companies will cover removal if you're experiencing complications such as band erosion, slippage, or persistent symptoms that significantly impact your quality of life. Coverage for conversion procedures may also be available if you meet specific criteria. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your benefits, and our team at MemorialCare can assist with pre-authorization documentation. You can learn more about insurance and payment options on our Accepted Health Plans page.
After LAP-BAND removal, your stomach will gradually return to its normal shape and function. The small pouch that was created by the band typically resolves over several months, and your stomach regains its ability to hold normal amounts of food. Any inflammation or irritation usually heals within a few weeks. If band erosion occurred, healing may take a bit longer, but most patients' stomachs recover completely with no lasting damage. However, it's important to note that without the restriction of the band or another bariatric procedure, weight regain is common without careful attention to diet and exercise.
Most patients can return to work within 7 to 10 days, provided their job doesn't involve heavy physical labor. If your work requires lifting, intense physical activity, or strenuous core work, you may need to wait 3-4 weeks or until cleared by your surgeon. If you had a conversion procedure performed during the same operation, your return-to-work timeline will follow the recommendations for that specific surgery, which may be slightly longer. During your consultation and follow-up appointments, your surgeon will provide personalized guidance based on your occupation and recovery progress.
If you have only your LAP-BAND removed without converting to another weight-loss procedure, weight regain is very likely without significant commitment to diet and exercise modifications. The LAP-BAND provided a mechanical restriction that helped limit food intake, and once it's gone, that restriction is eliminated. Many patients find it difficult to maintain their weight loss through lifestyle changes alone. This is why many patients at MemorialCare choose to have a conversion to a gastric sleeve or gastric bypass during the same surgery, which provides more effective and sustained weight loss through different mechanisms.
While the LAP-BAND was once a popular weight-loss surgery option, research over the past decade has shown that other bariatric procedures, specifically gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass, provide significantly better long-term weight-loss outcomes with lower complication rates and higher patient satisfaction. For this reason, MemorialCare focuses on offering the most effective weight-loss procedures available. However, we understand that many patients in our community had LAP-BAND surgery years ago, and we're committed to providing expert care for those who need band removal or wish to convert to a more effective procedure.