Lap Band Surgery has been a highly effective and safe operation at for Dr. Kim’s patients at North Hills Hospital. It is getting more popular in the United States, as well as in North Texas. It has some unique advantages compared to other bariatric procedures.


  • The procedure is performed laparoscopically.
  • A silicone and plastic band is wrapped around the upper part of the stomach creating a small pouch. Unlike Gastric Bypass Surgery, the pouch remains connected to the lower larger part of the stomach, so there is no alteration of the patient’s anatomy. Food passes through the opening slowly, and this can be adjusted by the surgeon. This limits the amount of food a person can eat, reducing hunger, and slowing down the digestive process.
  • This operation is readily adjustable because there is no alteration of a person’s anatomy.
  • Death after Lap Band Surgery has been reported to be significantly lower than Gastric Bypass Surgery. For this reason, Dr. Kim may suggest the Lap Band over Gastric Bypass Surgery in selected patients who may be at greater risk for developing complications following gastric bypass surgery.
  • The first band was the Swedish Adjustable Gastric Band (SAGB) which was patented in 1985. The Allergan Lap Band was approved for use by the FDA in 2001. The SAGB will be available for use through Ethicon (Johnson & Johnson) in 2008. Both bands have proven to be durable.
  • Weight loss after Lap Band Surgery occurs at a rate of one to two pounds per week. The person’s ultimate goal for weight loss can be achieved in two to three years. Like all other bariatric procedures, Lap Band Surgery requires proper diet and exercise.
  • When a patient becomes hungrier after the surgery, saline is placed in a port which connects to the band. This port cannot be readily seen, but can usually be felt. These adjustments are made in Dr. Kim’s office. After a Lap Band procedure, a typical patient has three to four adjustments the first year, then usually one or two during the second year. It is rare to require adjustments after the first two to three years.
  • Patients who undergo this procedure must chew their food thoroughly and adhere to a proper diet for optimal results.
  • It is extremely rare to develop a vitamin mineral deficiency following Lap Band Surgery.
Complications and Disadvantages of Lap Band Surgery