The Surgical Weight Loss Centre specializes in the medical treatment of obesity and offers both Gastric Banding and Gastric Balloon Programs. As the Canadian leader in weight loss surgery, we have a proven track record of success with patients from across the country. We help our patients experience sustained weight loss which can improve their health, appearance and quality of life. Gastric Banding (Lap-Band Surgery) Gastric Banding is a simple procedure where an adjustable band called the Lap-Band is placed around the upper stomach creating a small pouch. The Lap-Band can help patients control their portion size and food intake while allowing all of the food nutrients to be absorbed normally. This procedure is performed laparoscopically and therefore is minimally invasive with a fast recovery. Most patients return to their normal activities within one week. Patients can achieve a weight loss of approximately 1 - 2 pounds per week over the first year. Although individual weight loss results may vary, studies show that weight loss is sustained. The Lap-Band is meant to be a permanent implant but it can be removed if necessary. With more than 300,000 procedures performed worldwide, the Lap-Band System is the standard of care for hundreds of surgeons around the world. This procedure is subject to fewer risks and complications than other types of weight loss surgery, such as gastric bypass surgery.

Gastric Balloon

The Gastric Balloon is a non-surgical aid in the treatment of obesity. It consists of a soft, expandable balloon which is inserted in the stomach and then filled with sterile saline. The Gastric Balloon gives patients a sense of early satiety or fullness which helps them to reduce their food intake. It can be left in the stomach for a period of up to six months before it must be removed.

The Gastric Balloon is an alternative to weight loss medications or surgery. The procedure takes about 20 – 30 minutes and patients are discharged within a few hours. Patients can expect to have noticeable weight loss in the first six months. The amount of weight lost and how long the weight loss is maintained will depend on how well patients adopt long-term lifestyle changes related to eating and physical activity.

The Surgical Weight Loss Centre Programs

Both the Lap-Band and the Gastric Balloon Programs at our clinic are supervised by an experienced team of surgeons, registered bariatric nurses and a dietitian with access to other specialists as necessary. Our patients are assessed by a surgeon who determines their candidacy based on their BMI and medical history. Our weight loss programs are appropriate for patients who are over the age of 18 with a BMI of 28 or above. We recommend that our patients discuss their weight and health history with the surgeon at the time of their consultation to determine which program is the best option for them. For our long distance patients we offer the option of a telephone consultation with one of our surgeons. Our Support Seminars are available for viewing on-line and we have trained doctors and nurses in major centres across Canada to help our patients with their post-op care.

If you would like a free consultation with one of our surgeons, please contact our clinic at 905-278-8000 or 1-888-278-7952
or visit our website at www.swlc.ca

website: www.swlc.ca

Quick Links:
• Info on Obesity and Surgical Options
• The Lap-Band System
• The Intragastric Balloon System
• Surgery and Financing