Lap-Band vs. Gastric Sleeve, Which Procedure is Right for Me?

Gastric Sleeve vs Lap-Band

If you’re considering bariatric surgery in Texas, you may be wondering which option is best for your health, lifestyle, and long-term goals. At Cernero Surgery & Aesthetics in Denison, near Dallas, our team helps patients throughout North Texas explore their options for safe, effective, and sustainable weight loss.

One of the most common questions we hear is about the difference between gastric sleeve vs lap-band surgery. Both procedures are designed to help patients lose weight by reducing the size of the stomach and limiting food intake, but their methods, outcomes, and long-term results differ significantly.

 

Understanding Bariatric Surgery

If you are significantly overweight or obese, you likely struggle with more than just numbers on a scale. Carrying excess weight can increase your risk of serious health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, infertility, depression, and certain types of cancer.

The good news is that bariatric surgery can dramatically improve or even eliminate these risks. Many patients become less dependent on medications or no longer need them at all after achieving a healthy weight. Beyond the health benefits, losing weight can also restore confidence and improve overall quality of life.

LAP-BAND® Surgery

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, or Lap-Band®, reduces the amount of food your stomach can hold by placing a small, inflatable band around the upper portion of the stomach. The band creates two pouches: an upper, smaller pouch where food is held, and a lower pouch where digestion occurs. This slows the process of digestion and helps you feel full faster and longer.

Because the Lap-Band doesn’t require cutting, stapling, or rerouting of the intestines, it was once a popular choice. However, over the years, many patients have experienced Lap-Band® problems and complications, such as obstruction, band slippage, erosion, esophageal dilation, and poor nutrition. The procedure also requires lifelong follow-up appointments to adjust the band and monitor for issues.

Due to these concerns and the superior long-term outcomes of other procedures, Cernero Surgery & Aesthetics no longer performs Lap-Band® surgery. Our experienced team now removes or manages existing Lap-Bands, replaces Lap-Bands with the Gastric Sleeve procedure for more predictable, lasting results, and supports current Lap-Band patients with continued care and monitoring.

We’ve found that patients see better weight loss, fewer complications, and greater satisfaction with the gastric sleeve vs lap-band approach. During your consultation, we’ll review your medical history, evaluate your current device if applicable, and design a safe, personalized treatment plan.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Also known as Sleeve Gastrectomy, the Gastric Sleeve is now the most commonly performed bariatric procedure worldwide and for good reason.

This minimally invasive surgery permanently removes about 75 percent of the stomach, creating a smaller “sleeve” shape. The new stomach limits food intake and reduces hunger hormones, which helps patients eat less and feel satisfied sooner.

Studies show that Gastric Sleeve patients lose an average of 55 percent of their excess weight, while also seeing improvements in Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and cholesterol levels. Most patients spend only a couple of days in the hospital and return to daily activities quickly.

At Cernero Surgery & Aesthetics, our bariatric surgeons have seen the gastric sleeve vs lap-band comparison consistently favor the Gastric Sleeve in both safety and success. It offers long-term weight management without the maintenance or complications associated with adjustable bands.

Your Personalized Path to Weight Loss

Every patient’s journey is different. That’s why our team in Denison, Texas, takes time to understand your medical background, lifestyle, and goals before recommending a treatment.

If you’re exploring bariatric surgery options or managing an existing Lap-Band, we’re here to guide you with compassion, expertise, and experience.

Use our treatment planning tool to discover which procedure is right for you, or schedule a consultation with Cernero Surgery & Aesthetics today to take the next step toward a healthier, more confident you.

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All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.