The Low Down on Lap Band vs. Gastric Sleeve Weight Loss Procedures

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 22, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- While it was the gastric bypass procedure that first brought weight loss surgery to prominence, the lap band and the sleeve gastrectomy have become by far the most popular and widely discussed bariatric procedures. Both operations are significantly less invasive than older bypass options, and noted bariatric surgeon Michael Feiz, M.D., F.A.C.S., has found that both procedures have significant benefits that may make each an excellent choice for a great many people. The trick is figuring out which procedure is best for a given individual.

Below is a quick summary of  the benefits and issues surrounding both operations.

Lap Band

This procedure works by using miniature laparoscopic medical technology to tie off a large portion of the stomach, resulting in a greatly reduced capacity to hold food. The typical outcome is that patients are able to comfortably eat only a small fraction of the food they consumed at one sitting, aiding greatly in the dietary adjustment severely obese people need to make in order to defeat obesity.

Unlike a bypass, the procedure allows for normal digestion of food. In fact, it has the benefit of being both adjustable and reversible. Moreover, in cases where the procedure proves insufficiently effective, revision surgeries are available that can help to ensure a successful final outcome. (Additional information on these procedures can be found on Dr. Feiz's website.)

Gastric Sleeve

Often called a sleeve gastrectomy, this procedure, while substantially less invasive than the older gastric bypass procedure, nevertheless removes a very large portion of the stomach (roughly 75% to 85%). As with the lap band, this procedure allows you to eat a full range of foods, though in much smaller portions.

The sleeve procedure is becoming increasingly popular with both doctors and patients largely because of its reliability. This may largely be due to the fact that the operation does more than simply reduce the size of the stomach.

Dr. Feiz has long been among the medical professionals pointing out the fact that the sleeve procedure removes an area of the stomach called the fundus. The fundus, in turn, is largely responsible for the production of the formerly little known hormone called ghrelin. The hormone is believed to substantially contribute to the nagging feelings of appetite which make sustaining long-term weight loss so difficult. The result is that gastric sleeve patients appear to have an easier time making the adjustment to their new, healthier lifestyle, and may enjoy better results over time. 

If you are severely obese and interested in finding out which procedure is best for you, the only way to find out for sure is to get in touch with a qualified weight loss specialist. Free seminars are held on a regular basis at the offices of Dr. Feiz and Associates. For details, please visit his web site at www.drfeiz.com or call 800-868-5946.

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SOURCE Dr. Feiz and Associates