Is it possible to get the ORBERA Intragastric Balloon if you already have a lap band?

Question

I had lap band surgery done in 2006. I lost about 40 lbs over the course of 6 years but have gained about 1/2 of it back. I really need something that will help my appetite and sweets cravings and was hoping the gastric balloon would assist with that but it is possible to have both?

Paul Lee, MD · Answer

I agree with the previous two answers.  It is contraindicated to insert a gastric balloon in a patient who has a lap band.  However, if you get the band removed (since it does not seem to be effective at this time), there may be an option for the balloon then.

Christopher E. McGowan, MD · Answer

Hi, 
As others have noted, you cannot have an Orbera balloon if you have a LapBand. However, I'd like to clarify that even if the band is removed, you are still not a candidate for Orbera. This is because you will have scar tissue around your stomach after the LapBand is removed, which can lead to an increased risk of complications from Orbera, including stomach injury or perforation. These are extraordinarily rare events, but we would not want to place you at any risk with an elective procedure like this.

Steven Fowler, MD, FACS · Answer

Orbera Balloon is FDA approved for patients who have no prior gastric surgery. Your LapBand procedure disqualifies you from this intervention. The thought process is that prior stomach surgery could increase your risk of a complication such as an ulcer or perforation.

Isaac Raijman, MD · Answer

Hi Candy

Thank you for your query. Placement of the Orbera intragastric balloon is contraindicated in a patient who has an existing lap band. I presume the lap band has not been successful thus looking for alternative options. There are other options available to you, via endoscopy, as well as surgical.  I would first consider removal of the lap band. I hope this is helpful to you and best wishes on your efforts

Is it possible to get the ORBERA Intragastric Balloon if you already have a lap band?

Answers (4)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (4)

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS