What’s The Difference? -This is a question that many patients ask before they decide on the best weight loss surgery option for them. Let’s take a look at both procedures and see how they stack up against each other.
1. Procedure
The gastric balloon is a one-time, minimally invasive procedure that involves a thin tube being swallowed and inserted into the stomach. From here liquid-filled balloon is then inflated with water to create a feeling of ‘fullness.
On the other hand, lap band surgery involves placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper portion of your stomach, creating a small pouch.
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2. Adjustable vs. fixed:
Gastric balloon: the gastric balloon is a one-time, minimally invasive procedure that involves a thin tube being swallowed and inserted into the stomach. From here liquid-filled balloon is then inflated with water to create a feeling of ‘fullness.
Lap band: the lap band is a reusable and adjustable gastric band that has been surgically placed around the upper portion of your stomach. It works by creating a small pouch to restrict the amount of food you eat at each meal.
3. Risks:
Gastric balloon: few, if any, risks are involved with the procedure, but there is a possibility of the balloon moving around or deflating.
Lap band: there are risks associated with all surgeries, but there are some specific to this type. These include scarring and infection at the site where the laparoscopic port was inserted, bile leakage, bowel obstruction, bladder perforation, hernia (either inside or outside the abdomen), and an increased chance of needing another surgery.
4. Recovery time:
Gastric balloon: recovery time is usually 2-3 days, but you are required to follow your doctor’s instructions on dieting for a couple of weeks before returning to work or school to allow your stomach to adjust.
Lap band: After a lap band surgery in Phoenix, you will need to stay in the hospital overnight, and it usually takes about a week for you to go home. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help with any discomfort during recovery.
We hope this has helped you better understand what to expect with gastric balloon vs. lap band surgery so you can choose which procedure might be right for your specific needs. The basic difference between a gastric balloon and a lap band is that a gastric balloon might be known as an intragastric balloon (inside the stomach). In contrast, the lap band actually sits around the upper portion of your stomach. However, for both procedures, you need to meet the BMI requirements. Calculate Your Body Mass Index to know if you are eligible.