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Bariatric Surgery/life expectancy of implant for lap band surgery

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Expert: - 4/26/2010


Question
I want very much to get lap band surgery either with the equipment made by the Lap Band company or the Realize company.  I overheard someone at the weight loss seminar say that the implant does not last forever, that it has to be replaced at some point.  Is this true for both company's products?  What is the life expectancy for the implant?

Answer
Dear Bvcxnet,
For both manufacturers, the Band is designed to last for life.  The materials used are completely non-reactive with the body tissues, so they do not degrade over time.

It is possible for the tubing to kink or break, and for the balloon to leak, in rare cases with either manufacturer.  However, this type of mechanical failure is very uncommon and there is no planned replacement or "expiration date" for either Band.

Best wishes,
Dr JP

Bariatric Surgery

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Volunteer

John Pilcher, MD

Expertise

I can answer medically oriented questions about bariatric surgery including: patient selection, preparation for surgery, differences between types of bariatric surgery, aftercare following bariatric surgery. I can answer detailed questions about gastric bypass, Lap-Band, gastric sleeve, and revision bariatric surgery. I am only somewhat familiar with Biliopancreatic diversion. I am not prepared to answer insurance or other financial questions related to bariatric surgery.

Experience

I have been a practicing bariatric surgeon since 1995. About 85% of my current practice consists of bariatric surgery, including all of the above procedures except biliopancreatic diversion. I am the senior surgeon of a 5-surgeon group. I am recognized among surgeons and other medical professionals as the most experienced bariatric surgeon in my region.

Organizations
Fellow of American College of Surgeons Member, American Society for Bariatric Surgery

Education/Credentials
BA in Biochemistry - University of Virginia Medical Degree - University of Virginia Surgical Residency - University of Virginia

Awards and Honors
Alpha Omega Alpha

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