Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women. If you are concerned about your BMI number, please contact your doctor.

BMI Categories:
Underweight = <18.5
Normal weight = 18.5-24.9
Overweight = 25-29.9
Obese = 30-34.9
Severly Obese = 35 – 39.9
Morbidly Obese = 40+

• Overview
• Roux en Y Gastric Bypass
• Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding
• Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
• Financial Information

In June 2001, the FDA approved Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding for use in the United States. The Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band is a device that is placed around the upper portion of the stomach to make a "virtual pouch." The remaining stomach remains intact, and there is no cutting or dividing of the stomach tissue. The pouch created by the band allows the person to feel full after eating small amounts of food. Overall, the band is considered "less invasive" and has a lower early complication rate than the gastric bypass.

Click the image above to view the Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band procedure.

Advantages

• Lowest postoperative complication and mortality
• Least invasive approach
• No stapling or cutting of stomach or intestines
• Adjustable
• Potentially reversible
• Low malnutrition risk

Disadvantages

• Slower weight loss and overall less weight loss than with gastric bypass
• Regular follow up critical for band adjustments
• Requires implantation of a medical device
• Effectiveness can be reduced if band slips out of position
• Has higher incidence of long term complications that require operative intervention than gastric bypass
• Requires significant discipline on the part of the patient