If your gastric band is causing complications like reflux, difficulty swallowing, or inadequate weight loss, removal may be the best next step. At BetterLife Surgery, Dr Mo Atalla performs safe and effective lap band removal to help you regain your health and explore alternative weight loss options if needed.
*Individual Results May Vary
Remove the Lap Band and Explore Alternatives
Lap band removal is a surgical procedure to take out an adjustable gastric band that was previously placed around the upper part of the stomach to assist with weight loss. Over time, some patients experience complications like band slippage, erosion, reflux, or insufficient weight loss. Dr Mo Atalla performs lap band removal safely and carefully and often discusses alternative weight loss options to support your long-term health goals.
*Individual Results May Vary
Reasons to Consider Lap Band Removal:
- Ongoing reflux, nausea, or vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing or food intolerance
- Band slippage, erosion, or mechanical problems
- Not achieving the expected weight loss or regaining weight
- Infections or other band-related complications
- Feeling discomfort or restriction that affects daily life
- Preparing for a different bariatric procedure for better outcomes
Switch Over to Other Bariatric Surgery Options
If your gastric band is no longer providing the results you hoped for, or if you are experiencing complications, you may want to explore other effective bariatric surgery options.
At BetterLife Surgery, Dr Atalla offers several proven alternatives that can help you achieve long-term weight loss and health improvement after lap band removal.
Lap Band to Gastric Sleeve
Converting from a lap band to a gastric sleeve involves two key steps: first, removing the gastric band and then performing a sleeve gastrectomy. During a sleeve gastrectomy, about 75-80% of the stomach is surgically removed, resulting in a smaller, tube-shaped stomach. This limits the amount of food you can eat while reducing hunger hormones. Dr Atalla performs this procedure laparoscopically in most cases, which typically allows for a shorter hospital stay, faster recovery, and less postoperative discomfort.
*Individual Results May Vary
Lap Band to Gastric Bypass
A lap band to gastric bypass conversion involves removing the existing gastric band and then creating a small stomach pouch directly connected to the small intestine. This method reduces the amount of food you can eat and changes the way your body absorbs nutrients, promoting more significant weight loss. Gastric bypass is often recommended if you have severe reflux, inadequate weight loss with the band, or if you are seeking a more powerful metabolic effect to treat conditions like type 2 diabetes.
Lap Band to Duodenal Switch
A lap band to duodenal switch conversion is a more complex but highly effective option. After band removal, Dr Atalla reshapes the stomach into a sleeve and then reroutes a portion of the small intestine, significantly reducing calorie and fat absorption. This approach offers some of the highest long-term weight loss results among bariatric procedures, but also requires lifelong monitoring of vitamin and nutrient levels. The duodenal switch may be considered for patients with higher BMIs or those needing a stronger weight loss solution.
Why Choose Dr. Mo Atalla?
Dr Mo Atalla is a highly respected bariatric surgeon and Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS), dedicated to helping patients achieve health improvements. If your gastric band is causing complications or not delivering the desired results, lap band removal can be a crucial step toward a more sustainable weight loss journey. At BetterLife Surgery, Dr Atalla offers personalised care and a range of alternative solutions. Schedule your consultation today to explore your next steps with expert guidance and support.
