What Is Lap-Band Surgery?
Lap-Band surgery, or adjustable gastric banding (AGB), involves placing a silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach to create a small pouch. The band is connected to a port placed under the skin, allowing it to be tightened or loosened by injecting or removing saline. This restricts food intake and creates an early feeling of fullness.
The procedure takes 30-45 minutes laparoscopically and is the only bariatric surgery that is completely reversible — the band can be removed and the stomach returns to its normal size. Average excess weight loss is 40-50% over 2-3 years, which is lower than sleeve (60-70%) or bypass (70-80%).
Current Status of Lap-Band in 2025
Lap-Band surgery has declined dramatically from its peak in the late 2000s. In the US, it accounted for over 40% of bariatric procedures in 2008 but dropped to less than 1% by 2023. The decline is driven by lower long-term weight loss, high reoperation rates (30-50% within 10 years), and the emergence of gastric sleeve as a simpler, more effective alternative. However, some surgeons still recommend it for specific patient populations.
Cost Comparison by Country
Lap-Band remains one of the least expensive bariatric procedures due to its shorter operative time and no stapling required. US costs range from $10,000 to $18,000. Abroad, prices at hospitals like American Hospital Istanbul start as low as $2,500. However, patients should factor in the cost of periodic band adjustments ($100-$300 each) and the possibility of eventual band removal or conversion to another procedure.
Lap-Band Surgery Cost Comparison 2025
| Country | Procedure Cost | All-Inclusive Package | Savings vs USA |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | $10,000 - $18,000 | $12,000 - $20,000 | — |
| Turkey | $3,000 - $4,500 | $3,800 - $5,500 | Up to 73% |
| Mexico | $3,500 - $5,500 | $4,200 - $6,500 | Up to 68% |
| India | $2,500 - $4,000 | $3,000 - $5,000 | Up to 75% |
| Thailand | $6,000 - $9,000 | $7,000 - $10,500 | Up to 48% |
| Czech Republic | $4,000 - $6,000 | $5,000 - $7,500 | Up to 63% |
| Colombia | $3,000 - $5,000 | $3,800 - $6,000 | Up to 70% |
Lap-Band surgery requires periodic adjustments (fills) which may incur additional costs of $100-$300 per visit. Factor in annual adjustment costs when comparing total expenses.
Pros and Cons of Lap-Band
- PRO: Only fully reversible bariatric procedure
- PRO: Shortest operative time (30-45 minutes)
- PRO: No stapling or cutting of the stomach
- PRO: Lowest immediate surgical risk
- CON: Lower weight loss (40-50% EWL vs 60-80% for other procedures)
- CON: 30-50% reoperation rate within 10 years
- CON: Requires regular adjustments and office visits
- CON: Band slippage, erosion, and port complications are common
Modern Alternatives to Consider
For patients seeking the safety and simplicity that originally made Lap-Band appealing, the gastric sleeve offers a better balance. It is permanent but produces 60-70% excess weight loss with much lower reoperation rates. The endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is another emerging option available at centers like Koç University Hospital — a non-surgical procedure that reduces stomach volume by 70% using an endoscopic suturing device with no incisions and same-day discharge.
Lap-Band Removal & Conversion
Band removal with conversion to another bariatric procedure is increasingly common. In the US, this combined surgery costs $15,000-$25,000. Abroad, hospitals such as Liv Hospital Istanbul offer the same procedure for $4,500 to $8,000. The conversion is typically performed in a single operation, with the band removed and either a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass completed during the same session.
Making Your Decision
In 2025, the Lap-Band is best suited for patients who strongly desire a reversible option, have a BMI of 30-35, or have medical conditions that make more invasive surgery risky. For most patients, gastric sleeve or gastric bypass offers superior long-term weight loss and lower rates of additional surgery. Discuss all options with a qualified bariatric surgeon to determine the best approach for your individual situation.
I had my Lap-Band placed in 2012 and lost 40 pounds, but it slipped twice. I had it removed and converted to a gastric sleeve in Turkey for less than the cost of just the removal in the US. I have now lost 90 pounds total.
Sandra L., Florida — Band Removal & Sleeve in Istanbul
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Explore Weight Loss ClinicsFrequently Asked Questions
Is Lap-Band still a recommended procedure?
While still FDA-approved, Lap-Band usage has declined to less than 1% of bariatric procedures in the US due to lower weight loss results and high reoperation rates. Most bariatric surgeons now recommend gastric sleeve or bypass as first-line options.
What is the reoperation rate for Lap-Band?
Studies show that 30-50% of Lap-Band patients require additional surgery within 10 years due to complications such as band slippage, erosion, port problems, or inadequate weight loss. Many end up converting to gastric sleeve or bypass.
Can I get my Lap-Band removed abroad?
Yes, many international bariatric centers specialize in Lap-Band removal and conversion procedures. The cost abroad for band removal with simultaneous conversion to sleeve or bypass is typically $4,500-$8,000, compared to $15,000-$25,000 in the US.
How much weight can I lose with Lap-Band?
Average excess weight loss with Lap-Band is 40-50% over 2-3 years, which is lower than gastric sleeve (60-70%) or bypass (70-80%). Long-term maintenance also tends to be less successful compared to other bariatric procedures.
How often does the Lap-Band need adjustment?
The band typically needs 4-6 adjustments during the first year and 1-2 per year thereafter. Each adjustment takes about 15 minutes in the office and involves adding or removing saline through the subcutaneous port.