Lap-Band Revision Surgery

The Lap-Band (adjustable gastric banding) was once a popular weight loss surgery option, but it has fallen out of favor due to high rates of long-term complications and inadequate weight loss. Many Lap-Band patients experience band slippage, erosion into the stomach wall, port or tubing problems, esophageal dilation, chronic acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, and recurring vomiting.

Studies have shown that up to 50% of Lap-Band patients eventually require revision or removal surgery. Even among patients who do not experience complications, the average weight loss with the Lap-Band is significantly less than with other bariatric procedures.

At MISH Hospital, Lap-Band revision typically involves removing the band, port, and tubing and converting to a more effective bariatric procedure. The two most common conversion options are sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass.

Conversion to sleeve gastrectomy is often appropriate for patients without significant reflux issues. It provides excellent weight loss through restriction and hormonal changes. Conversion to gastric bypass may be recommended for patients who have reflux symptoms, as gastric bypass effectively treats GERD while providing strong weight loss results.

In some cases, the Lap-Band removal and conversion can be performed in a single operation. In other cases, your surgeon may recommend a staged approach, removing the band first and allowing the tissue to heal before performing the conversion procedure. The approach depends on the condition of your stomach tissue and the presence of scar tissue from the band.