In the bariatric surgical community, and amongst patients, the question of gastric sleeve vs. lap band lingers on. For some, the relatively non-invasive nature of the Lap Band is a huge plus. The Lap Band does not require the cutting or removing of any major internal organs. Rather, Lap Band surgery involves the fitting of a plastic adjustable band around the stomach. The band tightens to constrict the stomach, forming an hourglass shape that slows the flow of food particles, just like sand through, well, an hourglass. The other appealing aspect of the Lap Band is that it is reversible. In other words, the band can be removed if results are lackluster or complications ensue.

So in the battle between lap band vs. sleeve, does the Lap Band come out the winner? Not so fast! In some cases, the Lap Band degrade, get infected, or cause patients to regurgitate their food. At Dr. Feiz & Associates, a prestigious weight loss surgery center in Beverly Hills, CA, the esteemed Dr. Michael Feiz, M.D., FACS has become an increasingly popular choice for conversions from the Lap Band to gastric sleeve surgery. Gastric sleeve surgery involves removing three quarters or more of the stomach and re-shaping the remaining portion into a banana-shaped sleeve. The patient experiences immediate weight loss, and studies have shown that patients who undergo gastric sleeve surgery often see very positive results with certain co-morbidities like Type 2 diabetes.

What gets lost, though, in the ongoing debate of lap band vs. gastric sleeve is that both procedures have been proven to help patients lose weight, albeit in different ways. As the stigma of weight loss surgery continues to fade away, more people are considering this as a safe and effective option.

For more information please contact Dr. Feiz’s clinic today or call him (toll free) at 800-868-5946, or at 310-817-6911.