A lap band is a medical device that is placed around the upper part of your stomach to help limit how much food you can eat. It was once a fairly common option for weight loss, but over the years, other options have become available that are used more frequently. Some people develop issues with their lap band or find that it is no longer working as they expected, and choose to have it removed.
Do you need a lap band removal?
Lap band removal takes out your adjustable gastric band when it is no longer working as it should or is causing problems. Many people consider removal after 10 or 15 years, or even earlier, but the timing will depend on your symptoms, level of comfort, and your health.
What Is Lap Band Removal?
Lap band removal is a surgery that takes out your adjustable gastric band, along with the tubing and access port that was installed during your original surgery.
Many patients choose removal when their lap band is no longer helping them lose or maintain their weight or begins to cause side effects.
Most of the time, the lap band is taken out using minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, which means the surgeon uses small incisions and a special camera to help guide the procedure.
Why Do People Need Lap Band Removal?
People usually consider lap band removal because they begin developing symptoms or the symptoms they are having change. Issues can begin developing slowly, even years after your original surgery.
Some common reasons include:
- Issues with swallowing food or liquids.
- Continuous nausea or vomiting.
- Frequent acid reflux or heartburn.
- The band slips or moves out of place.
- The band erodes into the stomach.
- Inadequate weight loss results or weight regain.
- Pain or discomfort in the port or band area.
- Problems with how the band functions.
- Would like to explore other options for weight loss.
Not everyone who has a lap band will need to have it removed, but these symptoms often lead patients to talk with a surgeon.
Lap Band Removal After 10 Years
Many patients start asking about lap band removal after 10 years, but it does not mean that the lap band must be removed at that point.
The Cleveland Clinic reported that long-term studies show that about 35 percent to 40 percent of patients have their bands removed around the 10-year mark. This is often due to discomfort, complications, or limited weight loss.
Some people do well with their band for many years, but others can develop symptoms that make removing the band a better option. The decision is based primarily on how you are feeling and not just how long the band has been in place.
If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms like reflux or vomiting, it is a good idea to have the band checked out to find out if there is an issue.
Lap Band Removal After 15 Years
While many patients start asking about lap band removal after 10 years, others may keep their band longer and only begin to notice issues years later. If new symptoms begin or current ones become worse, lap band removal after 15 years is still possible.
After you have had a lap band for about 15 years, your surgeon will usually wish to evaluate certain things before they perform lap band removal. Some of the things they will normally look at include the following:
- Irritation or inflammation that is ongoing.
- Scar tissue that has developed around the band.
- Changes to the shape of your stomach or how it functions.
- Ongoing reflux or other digestive issues that are related to the band.
- You have not lost the weight you expected, or are regaining the weight you lost.
If you have chronic side effects or are still struggling to maintain a healthy weight, removing your lap band may enhance your quality of life and allow you to try a different treatment option.
How Is Lap Band Removal Performed?
Lap band removal is usually done during a laparoscopic surgery that takes anywhere between thirty minutes and an hour. It is normally done as an outpatient procedure, so you can go home the same day.
If the surgeon finds complications such as erosion or heavy scarring, the surgery may be more involved, take more time, and involve a hospital stay.
Typical procedure steps include:
- A series of small incisions are made in your abdomen.
- The special medical device with a camera helps guide the surgeon to perform the procedure through these small incisions.
- The band, tubing, and port are taken out.
- The surgeon will inspect the area and ensure everything looks as it should.
- Any scar tissue that has formed over the band may be carefully released if needed.
- The small incisions are closed and dressed.
What Is The Lap Band Removal Recovery Time?
Lap band removal recovery time normally takes between one and two weeks but can vary for each person. Most people can return to some light activities within the first week or two, but most have lifting restrictions for three to four weeks. For those with more complex surgeries or who experienced some complications, recovery may take longer. Some reasons recovery may be extended include:
- There was band erosion or infection.
- Significant scar tissue had to be removed.
- Another procedure, like a conversion surgery, was done at the same time.
How Will I Feel After My Lap Band Removal?
When your lap band is removed, you can expect to feel some mild soreness for several days, and you will be on a special diet that will help you gradually return to eating normal food. You will also have some activity restrictions until you are cleared by your surgeon. You will be monitored through follow-up visits after your lap band removal to ensure you are healing properly.
Can Lap Band Removal Be Combined With Another Surgery?
Yes. Some patients choose to convert their lap band into another form of bariatric surgery after the lap band is removed through a revisional bariatric surgery. Some potential conversions people choose include:
- Gastric sleeve surgery
- Gastric bypass surgery
Sometimes the surgeries can be combined, but in some cases, the surgeon may recommend staging them separately. This will depend on your health, if there is inflammation or damage around the stomach, or if any scar tissue is present.
Where Can I Go To Learn More About Lap Band Surgery?
If you want to learn more about lap band removal or weight loss surgery, the Laparoscopic & Endoscopic Surgery Institute (LESI) in Alpharetta, GA, offers lap band surgery, removal, and other types of weight loss surgery to help you reach your goals.
The practice is led by board-certified bariatric surgeons Dr. Michael Williams and Dr. Brendon Curtis, who have extensive experience with lap band surgery as well as other options like gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and revisional procedures. They take time to evaluate your current health, medical history, weight loss history, goals, and lifestyle before recommending options that will work best for your needs and circumstances.
Also, after your surgery, LESI also offers extensive support with nutrition, lifestyle changes, and follow-up care that can help you stay on track and maintain your results. Set up your personal consultation today to learn more!
FAQs
Does Every Lap Band Need to Be Removed After 10 Years?
No. Some people keep their lap band longer without having any issues. Lap bands are designed to be used indefinitely, but may require removal earlier depending on symptoms, complications, and how well your weight loss journey is going.
Can a Lap Band Be Removed After 15 Years?
Yes. A lap band can be removed even 10 or 15 years later, depending on how well it is working for you and any symptoms you may be experiencing.
Can You Gain Weight After Lap Band Removal?
Yes. It is possible to gain weight after lap band removal, especially if you do not have some kind of back-up weight loss plan in place. Some patients are able to maintain their weight loss results with lifestyle changes, but others may choose to undergo another bariatric procedure to help them continue their work toward their goals.
