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Is LAP-BAND Surgery Right for You?

If you feel you have tried everything to lose weight and have been disappointed with the results or had a hard time maintaining them over time, you are not alone. Every year our clinic opens its doors to hundreds of patients facing the same issue, and we’ll be more than happy to help you.

Am I a LAP-BAND Candidate?

At DayOne Health our medical team considers several factors when evaluating whether or not you are a good candidate for the lap-band procedure, including your overall health and your previous weight loss efforts. That is why, in order to accurately assess whether lap-band procedure is what you need, you will need to meet us in person. All you have to do is schedule your first appointment online.

Alyssa's Lap-Band Surgery

LAP-BAND Evaluation Process

It is advised that to be eligible for laparoscopic gastric banding:

  • You need to be at least 18 years old
  • Your body mass index (BMI) should be at least 40
  • Your BMI is between 35 and 40 but you have one or more co-morbidities
In other words, to qualify you need to be at least 100 pounds overweight, or approximately 70 pounds overweight and have an illness associated with your weight. On the list of so called co-morbidities you can find:
  • Type II diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • GERD
  • Sleep Apnea
  • Asthma
  • High cholesterol
Remember, even though you may not meet some of the criteria listed above you may still be considered a candidate for lap-band surgery. In some cases for example, BMI or plain weight criteria are not enough to determine your eligibility. The final decision about whether it’s advisable for you get the lap-band depends on your doctor’s recommendation and your private decision. That is why to better understand the criteria as well as to see if you qualify for the adjustable gastric band you should first talk to the weight loss doctor.

Expanded Criteria for Low BMI Patients

In February 2011, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated their recommendations for use of the LAP-BAND® System, making it available to patients with a BMI between 30 and 35. Learn more about the FDA’s expanded recommendations on our low BMI LAP-BAND page.

Talk to a LAP-BAND Doctor in Chicago

During your first consultation with a lap-band surgeon, you will have an opportunity to ask any questions you may have regarding the lap-band procedure. You will hear about any medical considerations connected with the surgery and discuss your medical history along with final recommendations. The doctor will also tell you about medical conditions that may interfere with the surgery or your life with the band. While talking to your doctor, don’t forget to mention if you have any health problems such as severe sleep apnea, stomach ulcerations, or if your weight gain was a result of an illness.


To see if you are a good candidate for the lap-band procedure, sign up for the one-on-one consultation with a surgeon at one of our Chicago locations.