Millions of Americans deal with obesity or morbid obesity and the health complications that can accompany these conditions. It is a difficult issue to fight, and for some people, it requires more than just diet and exercise. One of the ways that people are going about getting themselves healthy is through the implantation of a gastric lap band in Jacksonville. The team at New Life Surgical Associates can help you understand the procedure and what it involves.

What is a Gastric Lap Band?

A gastric lap band is an adjustable belt that is surgically placed around the upper area of the stomach. This band is put in place by means of a laparoscopic procedure. The band is made of silicone and can be loosened and tightened by adding or removing the saline solution, like a donut-shaped balloon. It is accessed via a port located just under the skin of the patient’s abdomen.

Getting a gastric lap band in Jacksonville can really aid in reprogramming the stomach (and body) during eating. This, plus shrinking the size of the stomach, reduces the amount of food that the stomach can hold. It also slows down the passing of food from the stomach into the intestines. This allows the stomach to communicate to the brain that you are full with a smaller amount of food intake. This happens because the lap band only allows for a small part of the stomach to be active in the ingestion and digestion processes.

The Right Candidate

In order to be considered for a gastric lap band in Jacksonville, or anywhere, there is a strict list of requirements that patients have to meet before a surgeon will implant the device. For example, the prospective patient needs to be serious and committed to the lifestyle and nutrition changes necessary to lose weight after the surgery.

A gastric lap band in Jacksonville can really change the trajectory of someone’s life. It can help them to be able to live the life that they have always dreamed of. Consult the professionals at New Life Surgical Associates in Jacksonville to find out if you qualify for the procedure. Contact us today to book your appointment and get started!