Are you considering the possibility of transitioning from lap band to gastric bypass or gastric sleeve in Tijuana, Mexico to save on surgery costs? This can very well be a great option for you!

For many years, adjustable gastric banding – also called by their brand names, such as LAP Band and REALIZE Band – was one of the most popular bariatric surgery options for patients hoping to lose weight. Over the past several years, the LAP BAND has fallen out of favor, due to its frequent complications, including:

  • Frequent Heartburn and Indigestion
  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Band Erosion and Band Leaking
  • Band Slippage
  • Pouch Dilation and More

Lap Band Revision

Those on the Lap-Band tend to lose less weight and need regular checkups with doctors to ensure the band is still in the correct place. For many, the problems with the LapBand outweigh the benefits, leading them to choose Lap Band removal and preferably convert it to Gastric Sleeve or RNY Gastric Bypass.

Lap Band Removal

The exact process for Lap-Band removal depends on the complications with your Lap Band. But the average procedure is completed on an outpatient basis and usually takes less than one hour. Patients are under general anesthesia. The Lap-Band removal surgeon will cut off the sutures that have been made around the band that holds it in place.

They will then cut off the band, remove both the band and the associated tube through the incision, and then close the incision with stitches. It is a relatively straightforward procedure. Lap Band removal recovery takes between 1 and seven days depending on your individual health and the surgery, though it may be more if combined with a revision.

Replacing Bands with Sleeve / Bypass

When the Gastric Band has caused problems for you, or you haven’t lost the amount of weight you’ve expected, the best solution is to combine your Lap Band removal with other useful bariatric surgery options. In our center, most people replace Lap Bands with gastric sleeve surgery – a highly effective bariatric surgery technique with excellent outcomes, fewer complications, and less need for follow-up treatments.

At least 50% of patients that have undergone the Gastric Banding have either had it removed, or have undergone revision surgery.[1] Challenges with Lap-Bands are common, and the best solution may be to switch to a more efficient and reliable weight loss surgery procedure, rather than weight through Lap Band removal recovery alone.

Lap Band Removal Costs

In some cases, Lap Band Removal is covered by insurance, however, you may have some out-of-pocket expenses. Many health insurance companies do not cover Lap Band Removal because the side effects associated with Lap Band are well known and pose serious risks.

Those that have inadequate or no insurance may be expected to pay a minimum of $9,000 or more to have lap band removed in most hospitals in the United States. The gastric band removal costs may be significantly greater if they are combined with bariatric surgery revisions, such as the gastric sleeve or gastric bypass. Mexico offers much more affordable options for Lap Band removal and revision.

Lap Band Removal in Mexico

At Mexico Bariatric Center®, we provide Lap Band removal surgery, along with very affordable revision options for those that are uninsured or underinsured. We have only the most highly trained doctors and surgeons available and have successfully performed many Lap Band removal surgeries and revisions in our safe and comfortable environment.

If you are looking for Lap-Band removal surgeon, contact Mexico Bariatric Center today. Our team offers the same quality as hospitals in the United States, but for more affordable pricing to help you afford your medical expenses.

Helpful Lap Band Resources