LAP-BAND® Fills and Gastric Band Adjustments in St. Louis

Gastric banding surgery with LAP-BAND adjustable gastric band can assist in weight loss by restricting food intake and allowing patients to feel full with smaller portions. Gastric band patients may periodically require gastric band adjustments, commonly known as LAP-BAND fills. At St. Louis Bariatrics, we offer LAP-BAND fills for patients who are experiencing weight gain, stalled weight loss, or increased hunger. Gastric band patients who are experiencing discomfort, pain, vomiting, or frequent heartburn may be in need of a band adjustment. We also have band adjustment appointments available for patients who had their gastric band procedure at another practice.

How Are LAP-BAND Fills Performed?

The LAP-BAND is a thin ring that is placed around the stomach to create a small pouch in the upper portion of the stomach. The band is hollow and has a small tube with an access port that can be filled with saline. When the band is filled, it tightens to increase the restriction around the stomach.

Dr. Jay Michael Snow is highly experienced in LAP-BAND placement and band adjustments. A small needle will be used to access the port in your abdomen and fill it with saline. At St. Louis Bariatrics, we always utilize fluoroscopy, which is an advanced type of x-raying, for band fills and adjustments. This increases the accuracy of your adjustment and reduces the chance of issues locating the port.

Frequently Asked Questions About LAP-BAND Fills

What can I do if my original gastric band doctor is not available?
It can be difficult to find a doctor to perform your band adjustment if your original gastric band surgeon is no longer in practice or you have moved from the area in which you had your procedure. In the St. Louis area, LAP-BAND patients can contact Dr. Snow. We are happy to see new patients for band adjustments, even if you had your gastric band surgery somewhere else.

How do I know If I need my band adjusted?
If a patient’s gastric band is too tight, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms. Signs that your gastric band may be too tight and needs an adjustment include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Pain
• Frequent heartburn
• Difficulty eating

How will I know if I need a LAP-BAND fill?
Some signs that you may need a gastric band fill include:

• Weight loss has stalled before you reach your goal weight
• You have gained weight
• You feel hungrier than usual and are not satisfied by healthy portions

In general, gastric band patients can expect to lose 1 to 2 pounds per week until they reach a healthy weight and should feel satisfied by small, nutritious meals.

Does it hurt to get a LAP-BAND fill?
The LAP-BAND fill is typically a quick, simple procedure with little to no discomfort. There are no incisions needed and the band is filled using a needle. The fluoroscopy machine is used in order to better locate and access the port.

What if I want my LAP-BAND removed?
A LAP-BAND fill may be a solution if you are generally satisfied with your gastric band, but you have experienced a recent stall in weight loss or spike in hunger. However, patients who have experienced gastric band complications and those who have not had satisfactory weight loss may choose to have their LAP-BAND removed. At St. Louis Bariatrics, Dr. Snow offers several gastric band revision options, including band removal, band repositioning, or band removal with conversion to sleeve gastrectomy. A consultation appointment at St. Louis Bariatrics can give you the opportunity to speak with an expert and learn more about your options.

Contact St. Louis Bariatrics For LAP-BAND Fills

At St. Louis Bariatrics, we pride ourselves on comprehensive patient care. Contact us if you have any questions about LAP-BAND fills or if you would like to schedule a consultation appointment.