Adjustable Gastric Banding (AGB) used to be one of the most common weight loss procedures. This procedure requires the use of an implant. In the United States, only two implants are FDA approved: REALIZE Band and Lap-Band System.
Both procedures are done laparoscopically as well as with single-incision through the belly button with little scaring. Both LAP BAND and REALIZE BAND have a proven track record for patients who are able to follow the postoperative diet guidelines and learn to do portion control.
Differences Between Lap-Band vs Realize Band?
There are very slight differences between Lap-Band to REALIZE. Both accomplish the same goal and functions in very similar ways. Most surgeons say that the differences are subtle, and the use of one or another is based on the surgeon’s preference.
Lap-Band System vs. REALIZE Band Table Comparison
| Implant: | REALIZE Band  | LAP BAND System  |
| Company | Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., part of Johnson & Johnson | Allergan, Inc. |
| Origin/First Version | Developed in Sweden in 1985. | Developed in Belgium in 1993. |
| U.S. FDA Approval Date | September 2007 (Approved in Europe Before) | June 2001 |
| US Clinical Trials | Started in 2003 | Started in 1995 |
| Patient Use | 100,000 Worldwide Patients | 650,000 Worldwide Patients |
| Band Versions | Two U.S. versions
| Three generations with continual improvements
|
| Adjustments or Fills | One size, fully adjustable | Two sizes, fully adjustable |
| Average Adjustments | Five to Eight in 2 years | 4 First Year, 2 Second and Third Year |
| Recall | Had a Recall In 2010. | None Known. |
| Reversibility | Yes | Yes |
| Results | At 3 Years
| At 1 Year
|
LAP-BAND System by Allergan
Lap-Band system is an implant from Allergan Corporation. The Lap-Band is the first AGB device approved by FDA in the United State for weight loss procedure. For patients who are in the United States. The Lap-Band is comparable in expected weight loss to the Realize Band. Allergan claims that their gastric band exerts equal pressure on all sides of the esophagus and stomach and as a result, it reduces the chance of erosion. The Lap-Band is offered in two different sizes. Lap-Band system is one of the most popular procedures and is widely known in the media.
REALIZE Band System by Johnson & Johnson
REALIZE Band, is an implant from the Ethicon Endo-Surgery, part of Johnson & Johnson Company. The Realize Band is the second AGB device approved by FDA in the United State for weight loss procedure in 2007. However, the REALIZE band was approved in Europe long before and has a track record of success.
The REALIZE Band has been implanted in over 100,000 patients. The Realize Band offers a comprehensive aftercare program (at REALIZE mySuccess) designed to help patients reach their weight loss goals. J & J claims that their gastric band has a low-pressure system that supports wider fill ranges and as a result. Understand the complications and risks associated to lap band erosion. The Realize Band is offered in one size that fits all.
Lap Band Surgery Comparisons
Helpful Lap Band Resources
- Gastric Banding Surgery Rescue & Revision Surgery
- Is Transitioning from Lap Band to Sleeve or Bypass Beneficial?
- Not Losing Weight With Lap-Band? What to do?
- Cost of Self-Pay Gastric Band Cost Without Insurance
- Lap Band Cost in Mexico
- Gastric Banding Surgery Risks, Complications
- Lap Band Surgery Before and After Photos
- Pre-Op Diet Guidelines
- Post-Op Diet Guidelines
- Side Effects of Lap-Band