The Lap-Band® is a silicone band that is placed around the stomach, creating a small upper stomach pouch that prevents a patient from eating excessively. It is only a restrictive device (not a malabsorptive one), and can be adjusted and/or removed, if necessary. The procedure to place the band is done laparoscopically on an outpatient basis, so Dr. Collier's patients go home the same day as surgery in most cases. Recovery is relatively quick - with patients returning to work and/or most normal activities within 3-4 days. It is currently the least invasive form of bariatric surgery, with the lowest complication rate compared to all other alternate obesity surgeries. (Read more about the Lap-Band® procedure) Gastric bypass surgery involves a permanent changing the stomach by surgically reducing it's size with a stapling device. Its size is reduced to a small egg-sized pouch, permanently separating it from the remainding portion of the stomach. The remaining lower portion of the stomach and the first portion of the small intestine, where a significant potion of food and calorie, vitamin, and nutrient absorption occurs, are permanently therefore "bypassed". This creates a  type of surgery that has both a restrictive and a malabsorptive effect. It is a reversible procedure, but technically challenging. It should  only be performed by a surgeon with a great deal of experience in reversals due to the complexity of the procedure. Generally, gastric bypass patients stay in the hospital 3-4 days following surgery, and recovery takes approximately 2-4 weeks. Due to the nature of the procedure, gastric bypass surgery has a higher rate of  complications following surgery and a higher death rate.

You should be at least 40-100 pounds overweight to consider the Lap-Band® System. A better measure for determining your eligibility, however, is your BMI (Body Mass Index), a calculation based on your height and weight (Click here to calculate your BMI) The Lap-Band® is generally recommended for patients with a BMI of 35-60.

Yes. The Lap-Band® procedure is considered the least invasive bariatric surgery available — offering the fewest complications, less pain, less scarring, and a quicker recovery than any other form of obesity surgery. However, you should discuss this directly with your surgeon.

On average, Lap-Band® patients have lost 50% or greater of their excess weight within the first year after surgery. Results vary among patients, but optimum results are accomplished by each patient working closely with Dr. Collier, following the changes in their lifestyle eating habits recommended by his dietitan, and participating in a regular exercise program. Most of patients' associated medical problems, such as diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, joint pain, or high blood pressure, have improved or disappeared completely after a period of time following the Lap-Band® procedure. Weight loss goals can be discussed in further detail with you during your initial consultation with Dr. Collier and his licensed, registered dietitian.

Walking is great exercise to start out with following your surgery. After 6 weeks you may do most exercise activities you would like — aerobics, bicycling, running, strength conditioning, etc. Exercise is a vital part of your post-surgery regimen, as it will facilitate weight loss and contribute to your overall health and well-being. Dr. Collier's dietitian also has over twenty years experience as a personal exercise trainer and can often offer suggestions in exercise activity.

You should be up and walking within 45 minutes of your procedure, which will help blood flow and circulation. Depending on the type of work you do, your medical history, and your doctor's recommendation, you should be ready to return to work comfortably between three to five days. Those with particularly strenuous jobs or jobs requiring heavy lifting may be recommended to take off a few more days.

The LAP-BAND® is designed to stay in your body as a permanent implant. It can be removed safely if the patient desires, at which time the stomach will usually return to normal  and your other internal organs will not usually  be disturbed as they were not altered at the time of the Lap-Band® insertion. Most patients choose to keep the band even after they've reached their goal weight to assist them in maintaining their weight throughout the remainder of their lives. Studies have demonstrated that most patients who have any type of weight loss procedure reversed will frequently regain their weight.

Patients typically go home in two to four hours after having the surgery. Patients with significant medical  histories such as  heart or lung disease may be recommended to stay overnight. Medicare requires all patients to be kept overnight after this procedure.

The band won't change your habits for you, but it is a TOOL  which will assist your ability to make the changes in these eating habits. Consuming large amounts of food several times a day will no longer be possible. The Lap-Band® will help you win your weight-loss battle by allowing you the willpower to make the necessary changes for a healthier life. These changes in habits are further enhanced by working with Dr. Collier's licensed, registered dietitian who will direct your individual needs toward better habits. You however are still the reponsible person for completing these recommendations and must take charge of the necessary changes!