Plano, TX, July 26, 2017 – When it was first introduced in the United States in 2001, the LAP-BAND® procedure rapidly became a popular choice for helping people address weight-related concerns in an effective, but reversible manner. Fast forward to 2017, however, and this procedure has largely fallen out of favor due to its relatively high potential for complications. Many former patients have found the device has stopped working for them. Others have encountered complications, such as acid reflux, nausea and slippage. The ongoing concerns have given rise to the need for many former LAP-BAND® patients to seek revisionary procedures.

“The potential for the LAP-BAND® device to cease working and to promote the development of side effects has given rise to strong recommendations for former patients to undergo annual evaluations,” explains Dr. Nick Nicholson, founder and lead surgeon at the Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery. “Revisionary procedures may be necessary to address device failure or slippage. In some cases, an office procedure to refill the band can remedy the situation. If other complications have occurred, such as slippage, revisionary surgery may be medically necessary.”

The LAP-BAND® procedure involves a laparoscopic surgery during which a band is placed around the stomach. This band limits the amount of food the stomach can comfortably hold, essentially enabling patients to feel fuller fast. In doing so, the band has been credited with helping many people lose a significant amount of excess body weight. Since the band is adjustable and removable, the procedure was once highly sought out as an alternative to the more invasive sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass surgeries.

When revisionary surgery is required, patients generally have options. The LAP-BAND® to sleeve revision involves the removal of the band in favor of the sleeve gastrectomy. Patients may also choose to have the LAP-BAND® removed entirely without an additional bariatric procedure.

“Our surgeons are experts in revisionary procedures,” says Dr. Nicholson. “We work with our patients to determine the best path to meet their immediate needs for revision without losing sight of their long-term weight loss goals. Since revisionary procedures are often medically necessary, our insurance advocates will work tirelessly on their behalf to ensure the lowest out-of-pocket cost for revision possible.”

People who have experienced failed surgical procedures will find help is available. To find out more about revisionary procedures and the Nicholson Clinic’s revisionalsurgery experts, visit the clinic online.

About Nicholson Clinic
Founded by Dr. Nick Nicholson, one of the country’s leading weight loss surgeons and co-author of “Weight Loss Surgery: The Real Skinny,” the Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery offers a variety of options to help patients gain control of their weight and their lives.