Trying to live a normal life…is it worth it?

More persons who are unable to lose weight naturally, or those who are just too overweight to start a regular routine, are looking to surgery to jumpstart their success. Gastric sleeve surgery and the lap band are very popular choices, especially since they are seen as safer alternatives to other methods. There are however a number of differences between the two that has led to a gastric sleeve vs lap band debate for some persons contemplating the move.

The comparison of Gastric Sleeve Versus Lap Band

Gastric Sleeve, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a procedure in which portions of the stomach are removed. The stomach is sized down in a way that leaves it looking like a tube. The procedure is permanent, and can cost more than $10,000. By altering the size of the stomach, persons are better able to control how much they eat. This is because they will get full faster.

On average the human stomach can hold around six cups of food; this surgery significantly reduces that amount. Weight loss normally takes place within the first six to twelve months. Risks include blood clots, leaks at the places of incision, and weight gain due to stomach stretching with time.

Short for “laparoscopic adjustable gastric band“; the lap band is a form of gastric banding, and is reversible. The band is made of silicon, is inflatable, and can be adjusted over time. Basically, the band is fitted around the top portion of the stomach. This reduces the amount of food consumed at any specific time, since this section holds approximately 1/2 cup of food.

The food is slowly transported to the lower section of the stomach through the opening. Band slippage, infection or erosion can occur. The procedure can range from $17,000 to $30,000.

Common advantages

Neither procedure requires food to bypass the small intestines, as is the case with duodenal switch and gastric bypass. This is good since all of the nutrients in the food consumed can be absorbed by the body. Also, it is possible to get insurance to cover a part or all of the cost of each however, lap band patients may find it easier to do so.