Just recently the FDA approved the lap band for people who have a BMI of 30 or above.  That means that a 5 foot six inch person weighing 180 lbs can be a candidate for the band. This is the most successful population of patients with the band because loosing 50-60 lbs and maintaining that weight loss is the area where the band is very effective. 

The weight loss should be able to be accomplished in about 6-9 months.  The hardest thing will be having the insurance companies agree to pay for the new guidelines.  For patients that can not get their insurance companies to pay,  there are cash pay options with physicians across the country.  At our office in NJ, Allied Surgical Group, we offer lap banding and a year of followup for $12,000.   That includes the band which cost  $3200, anesthesia, the OR fees and all the surgeons fees.  It is on pare with a year of nutrisystem.

It is important for you to have your banding with a physician that you can visit at least once a month for the best results.  Most of my patients visit me monthly for the first 6-7 months and some once a month for the first year.  Than the visits can be individually set based on your success and comfort.

If you want more information about paying out of pocket for the band email me at davidswardmd1@gmail.com