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Gastric Band Surgery for Adjustable, Restrictive Weight Loss

A reversible bariatric option that helps limit food intake and support long-term weight control through portion management.

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What is Gastric Band Surgery?

Gastric band surgery, also known as laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (Lap-Band®), is a bariatric procedure that involves placing an inflatable band around the upper part of the stomach. This creates a small pouch that limits how much food you can eat at one time, helping you feel full sooner. The band can be tightened or loosened over time by adding or removing saline through a port placed under the skin. Unlike other bariatric surgeries, the gastric band does not involve cutting or rerouting the stomach or intestines and is reversible, making it a more conservative option for weight loss.

3D illustration of a stomach with an adjustable gastric band in place, showing the band around the upper portion and connected to a port.
Candidates

Is the Gastric Band Right for You?

Gastric band surgery (Lap-Band®) may be a good option if you have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher, or a BMI over 30 with weight-related conditions like high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or insulin resistance. It’s often considered by patients seeking a less invasive and reversible weight loss procedure, especially if they’re not ready to commit to a permanent anatomical change.

Calculate Your BMI​
  • BMI of 35+ (or 30+ with medical conditions)
  • Struggled to lose weight with diet and exercise
  • Experiencing obesity-related health issues
  • Prefer a less invasive and adjustable option
  • Are comfortable with regular follow-ups for band adjustments and monitoring
Benefits

Why Choose the Gastric Band?

Adjustable & Customizable

The gastric band can be tightened or loosened over time, allowing your care team to fine-tune your weight loss journey based on your needs.

Reversible & Less Invasive

Unlike other bariatric surgeries, the Lap-Band doesn’t involve cutting or stapling the stomach or intestines—and it can be removed if necessary.

Outpatient Procedure with Short Recovery

Most patients go home the same day and return to normal activities within a few days, thanks to the minimally invasive, laparoscopic approach.

Gastric Sleeve PATIENT SPOTLIGHT — Tina

“I truly believe having this surgery has saved my life.”

After a lifelong struggle with her weight, Tina turned to Eviva for support. With the Eviva team by her side, she lost over 160 lbs, reversed her high blood pressure and sleep apnea, and reclaimed her energy, confidence, and love for life.

Testimonials

Patient Before & After

Cerissa

Gastric Sleeve

Tina

Gastric Sleeve

Kevin 

Gastric Sleeve

Heidi 

Gastric Sleeve

Zuleica 

Gastric Sleeve

Shelly 

Gastric Sleeve

Providers

Providers that perform Weight Loss Surgery

Mimi Tan, MD

Bariatric & Metabolic Surgeon, Board Certified General Surgeon

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Profile picture of Dr. VanderWel wearing scrubs in front of blue background

Brandon VanderWel, MD

Bariatric & Metabolic Surgeon, Board Certified General Surgeon

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Smiling male doctor in a white coat with a yellow tie and blue shirt, sitting in a bright medical office.

Robert Landerholm, MD

Board Certified General Surgeon, Bariatric & Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery

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Our Process

How our Bariatric Surgery Program Works

Step 1.
Schedule a Virtual Consultation

Meet with one of Eviva's world class surgeons to learn which procedure is right for you.

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Step 2.
Intake + Insurance Review 

Your Bariatric Pathway Coordinator (BPC) is here to help every step of the way—navigating insurance approvals, clinical milestones, or walking you through the self-pay process.

Step 3.
Surgery Day

Your journey begins today—and you’re in the best hands. Our streamlined outpatient approach means most patients are home the same day, recovering comfortably and confidently with support from our experienced team.

FAQ

Most Popular Questions

How much weight can I expect to lose with a Lap Band?

Weight loss varies, but on average, patients may lose about 15% of their total body weight. Long-term success depends heavily on regular follow-ups and strict dietary habits.

Some patients develop band slippage, pouch dilation, or esophageal dilation, which can cause symptoms like reflux, vomiting, or reduced effectiveness. Rarely, the band can erode into the stomach lining if over-tightened long-term.

Yes. Eviva continues to support existing Lap Band patients with adjustments, imaging, and long-term follow-up care.

In most cases, insurance does cover Lap Band-related care, especially if you’re experiencing complications or need imaging or adjustments. Removal or revision procedures are often covered when medically necessary. We’ll help you verify your benefits before any step.

Yes. If the stomach or esophagus stretches or the band loses its optimal position or tightness, its ability to aid weight loss can decrease. Regular follow-ups are key to maintaining effectiveness.

Yes. If the band is no longer working or causing discomfort, our surgeons can discuss removal or a revision procedure, such as gastric sleeve or bypass. Many patients see renewed success after revision.

It’s important to note that Lap Band removal surgery can vary greatly in complexity. Bands that have been in place for many years-especially those surrounded by scar tissue or deeply encapsulated by fat-can be significantly more difficult to remove. The longer these issues go unaddressed, the more complicated they can become. If you’re experiencing symptoms or suspect problems with your band, we strongly encourage you to consult with a physician. Early evaluation can help prevent further complications and open up more options for care.

Signs include persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, frequent vomiting, or weight regain. If you notice these symptoms, we recommend a clinical evaluation with imaging.

Procedures we offer at Eviva

Our surgeons work closely with you to determine which weight loss procedure best matches your goals, medical needs, and lifestyle. From advanced laparoscopic techniques to non-surgical endoscopic procedures, each option we offer is backed by proven outcomes and long-term success. We also offer revision surgery for patients who’ve had prior procedures and need additional support.

Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Surgeries

Gastric Sleeve (LapSleeve®)

3D illustration of a stomach after sleeve gastrectomy, showing the reduced, tube-shaped stomach with surgical sutures.
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Gastric Sleeve Resources

  • Overview: The gastric sleeve, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a laparoscopic procedure where approximately 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a tubular “sleeve” that limits food intake.

  • How It Works: By reducing stomach size and removing the hunger-inducing hormone-producing part (fundus), it decreases appetite and promotes satiety.

  • Benefits: Patients typically experience a 25–30% total body weight loss. The procedure also improves conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea.

  • Ideal Candidates: Individuals with a BMI over 35. It is also frequently performed on BMI between 30–35.

  • Recovery: Most patients go home the same day. Recovery involves a staged diet starting with liquids and gradually progressing to solids over several weeks.

Gastric Bypass

3D illustration of a stomach after gastric bypass surgery, showing the small pouch connected directly to the small intestine, bypassing the lower stomach.
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Gastric Bypass Resources

  • Overview: Gastric bypass is a laparoscopic procedure that alters both the stomach and small intestine to reduce food intake and calorie absorption. A small pouch is created at the top of the stomach and connected directly to the small intestine.

  • How It Works: The procedure limits how much food you can eat and bypasses part of the intestine to reduce calorie absorption. It also influences hormones involved in hunger and blood sugar regulation.

  • Benefits: Patients may lose 30–35% of their total body weight. Gastric bypass has strong results for resolving type 2 diabetes, GERD, and metabolic syndrome.

  • Ideal Candidates: Individuals with a BMI over 35, especially those with type 2 diabetes, severe acid reflux, or complex metabolic conditions.

  • Recovery: Most patients go home the same day. Recovery includes a gradual diet progression and routine follow-ups for long-term support.

Gastric Band (LapBand®)

3D illustration of a stomach with an adjustable gastric band in place, showing the band around the upper portion and connected to a port.
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Gastric Band Resources
  • Overview: The lap band involves placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach, creating a small pouch to restrict food intake.
  • How It Works: The band creates early satiety by limiting how much food the pouch can hold. The tightness of the band is adjusted through a port placed under the skin.
  • Benefits: Less invasive with no stomach cutting or stapling. Adjustable and reversible. Typically results in 15–20% total body weight loss.
  • Ideal Candidates: Patients who prefer a reversible option or who may not qualify for sleeve or bypass procedures.
  • Recovery: Same-day discharge is common. Return to work within a few days. Band adjustments are performed in the clinic as needed.

Non-Surgical Endoscopic Procedures​

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (Endosleeve)

3D illustration of a stomach after endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG), showing internal sutures reducing the stomach volume without surgical removal.
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Endosleeve Resources
  • Overview: The lap band involves placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach, creating a small pouch to restrict food intake.
  • How It Works: The band creates early satiety by limiting how much food the pouch can hold. The tightness of the band is adjusted through a port placed under the skin.
  • Benefits: Less invasive with no stomach cutting or stapling. Adjustable and reversible. Typically results in 15–20% total body weight loss.
  • Ideal Candidates: Patients who prefer a reversible option or who may not qualify for sleeve or bypass procedures.
  • Recovery: Same-day discharge is common. Return to work within a few days. Band adjustments are performed in the clinic as needed.

Gastric Balloon

3D illustration of a gastric balloon placed inside the stomach to aid weight loss.
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Gastric Balloon Resources
  • Overview: A gastric balloon is a temporary device inserted endoscopically and filled with saline to occupy space in the stomach and limit food intake.
  • How It Works: The balloon takes up stomach space, promoting earlier satiety and reducing meal sizes. It is removed after approximately six months.
  • Benefits: Non-surgical and reversible. Can aid weight loss of 10–15% of total body weight when combined with lifestyle changes.
  • Ideal Candidates: Individuals seeking short-term weight loss support or those preparing for another procedure like surgery.
  • Recovery: Minimal downtime. Patients may experience nausea or discomfort for the first few days. Normal activities resume quickly.

Revision​ Procedures

Laparoscopic & Endoscopic Revision

Gastric Revision 3d Stomach
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Revision Resources

  • Overview: Revision surgery involves modifying or converting a previous weight loss procedure—such as converting a Lap Band to a Sleeve or Bypass—when initial results are inadequate or complications arise.

  • How It Works: Depending on the patient’s history and current needs, the revision may involve removing or modifying existing devices, reshaping the stomach, or rerouting the intestines.

  • Benefits: Offers a second chance at weight loss success. Can resolve issues such as inadequate weight loss, band slippage, reflux, or weight regain.

  • Ideal Candidates: Patients who had prior bariatric surgery but experienced complications, minimal results, or weight regain.

  • Recovery: Varies by procedure. Most are still performed laparoscopically with a focus on minimal downtime and tailored aftercare.

How can we help you?​