While both Gastric-Bypass and the Lap-Band procedure have similarities, there are differences in the amount of discomfort, effort, and amount and time of weight loss. There are many important decisions to be made when choosing which procedure would best fit the needs, lifestyle, and health of an individual. Comparing these side-by-side should help in making an informed decision. Here is a brief description of each procedure. Gastric-Bypass is a surgical bypass operation performed to restrict food intake and reduce absorption of calories and nutrients in the treatment of severe obesity that typically involves reducing the size of the stomach and reconnecting the smaller stomach to bypass the first portion of the small intestine. (1)The Lap-Band procedure is a silicone belt or collar that goes around the upper part of the stomach. (2) The Lap-Band procedure is also surgical based. Both procedures restrict the amount of food that can be eaten resulting in loss of weight. Both procedures are surgical. While Gastric Bypass alters the stomach and intestines, Lap-Band does not. On the other hand, Lap-Band introduces a band that is left inside of the body, while gastric bypass does not. The surgical risks of both procedures are very similar. Having Gastric By-Pass, the risks associated with the surgical procedure can include: Excessive bleeding, Infection, Adverse reactions to anesthesia, Blood clots, Lung or breathing problems, Leaks in your gastrointestinal system. Death (rare) (3). Some of the surgical risks involved with the Lap-Band are Placement of the LAP-BAND® System is major surgery and, as with any surgery, death can occur. Possible complications include the risks associated with the medications and methods used during surgery, the risks associated with any surgical procedure, and the patient's ability to tolerate a foreign object