REALIZE Band®, LAP-BAND®, Gastric Bypass or Gastric Sleeve

Click this link to view the animated Gastric Bypass video

Click this link to view the animated LAP-BAND® System video

At Southern Oregon Bariatric Center we perform Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (the LAP-BAND® System and Realize Band® ), Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery, and the Roux-en-y Gastric Bypass surgery with either laparoscopic or “open” techniques depending on the individual needs of the patient.

Our comprehensive program includes psychological evaluation, education, dietary and exercise counseling both before and after surgery. Attendance at support group is strongly encouraged for at least 18 months after surgery. Ongoing educational classes and special events are offered on dietary, exercise and behavior modification to support a lifetime of success after bariatric surgery.

It is important to understand that bariatric surgery is a major surgery. It should be viewed first and foremost as a method for alleviating a debilitating disease. Although most patients enjoy an improvement in obesity-related health conditions (such as mobility, self-image and self-esteem) after the successful results of weight loss surgery, these results should not be the primary reason for having the procedure. As Dr. Eaton often says, "We're not in the business of making skinny people. We want to help make people healthier."  The goal is to live better, healthier, and longer. The incidence of risks and complications from gastric bypass surgery, an adjustable gastric banding procedure or gastric sleeve are very low; however, they should be considered when making a decision as to your candidacy for the procedure. A summary of risks and benefits may be found here.

We have provided information on various weight loss operations here and also in our Related Topics FAQ for you to understand the different treatment options available. Before making your decision, it is best to be well informed. Please take advantage of our online tutorials. One will show you facts and information about gastric bypass surgery. The other tutorial on the REALIZE Band® and LAP-BAND® Systems is through a website called Emmi, an interactive patient education series which covers a wide variety of information about many surgical procedures.

Emmi will walk you through the entire surgical experience from pre-op to post-op, including risks and alternatives. You will have the opportunity to document questions about the REALIZE Band® and LAP-BAND® Systems as you go along. These questions will be printed by our office for discussion with your surgeon.

If you are already a registered patient of Southern Oregon Bariatric Center, you may login directly to EMMI. If you do not have an access code yet, please contact us at either 1-877-404-SOBC or 1-541-282-6680,  or email info@sobariatrics.com.