Lap Band v. Gastric Sleeve: Whichever Wins, We Lose (Weight)

The popularity of weight loss solutions like lap band and sleeve gastrectomy has led many people to rely on the expertise of Dr. Feiz to explain their differences

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Dr. Feiz and Associates

May 20, 2014, 08:51 ET

LOS ANGELES, May 20, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- As obesity has become an increasingly serious issue in recent years, many people have come to call on lap band surgeon Michael Feiz, MD, FACS for bariatric procedures. Yet, upon their initial consultation at Dr. Feiz and Associates, some are surprised to find Dr. Feiz recommend sleeve gastrectomy surgery instead of the more widely known lap band. This has led to many people wondering what the difference is when discussing lap band vs. gastric sleeve. Fortunately, as a top surgeon who is renowned for his empathy and communication skills as well as his medical acumen, Dr. Feiz is always eager to help patients understand more about both treatments.

Dr. Feiz would likely explain that, in a sleeve gastrectomy, the stomach is surgically narrowed to reduce its capacity, wherein lap band involves placing an inflatable band around the upper stomach, limiting the amount of food that can be ingested. Both procedures necessitate dietary changes once the procedure is complete – which is usually easier than a patient might expect, because both treatments will lead a person to feel full and satisfied after consuming a much smaller portion than usual. With sleeve gastrectomy, this is particularly true, because the treatment involves removal of the part of the stomach that contains ghrelin – the so-called "hunger hormone" that is responsible for intense feelings of hunger.

Perhaps the biggest difference between lap band and gastric sleeve surgery is that gastric sleeve involves the surgical removal of a portion of the stomach. Often, the procedure will require multiple incisions and the use of stitches. Because of this, sleeve gastrectomy is irreversible, while a lap band can be adjusted or even removed completely if the patient no longer requires it, or if the procedure proves to be the wrong fit for an individual.

Despite the fact that they are both distinctly different procedures, lap band and gastric sleeve still have a few traits in common. For example:

Both surgeries are performed laparoscopically, with only a few minor incisions made
Both involve a restriction of the amount of food one can ingest at one sitting
Neither surgery involves re-routing of the intestines
Both are appropriate for patients with a BMI of 35 or more

At Dr. Feiz and Associates, the main trait shared by those undergoing both gastric sleeve surgery and lap band treatment is the practiced hand and meticulous skill of Dr. Feiz. As a world-class surgeon and member of groups like the American Medical Association, the American Society for Bariatric Surgeons and others. The expert surgeon is renowned for his empathy and surgical experience, and in fact, despite having served Los Angeles patients for decades, Dr. Feiz boasts a zero mortality rate, a fact that serves to alleviate any anxiety a patient might feel prior to treatment.

In the end, the choice between lap band and sleeve gastrectomy comes down to the specific needs of each individual. Fortunately, Dr. Feiz is deeply attuned to his patients, and he is committed to providing every one with impeccable, life-changing surgery. Free seminars are held regularly. Please call 800-868-5946 or visit www.drfeiz.com.

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SOURCE Dr. Feiz and Associates