Defective Lap-Band Lawsuits

Defective Lap Band Lawsuits in Syracuse, New York

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (Lap-Band) surgery was once promoted as a safe, reversible weight loss solution for obese patients. However, research now shows that more than half of Lap-Band patients experience complications requiring device removal. If your Lap-Band bariatric implant failed or caused serious health problems, the experienced Lap-Band lawsuit attorneys at Gillette & Izzo in Syracuse can help you recover compensation.

Call 315-421-1000 today for a free consultation with a bariatric device injury lawyer who understands the physical and emotional toll of failed weight loss surgery.

What Is the Lap Band System?

The Lap-Band is an adjustable silicone band placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch, restricting food intake and promoting weight loss. The band connects to an access port placed under the skin, allowing doctors to adjust tightness by adding or removing saline.

Manufacturers marketed Lap-Band as:

• Minimally invasive compared to gastric bypass

• Reversible (the band can be removed)

• Adjustable to individual patient needs

• Safe with low complication rates

However, long-term studies paint a very different picture.

Alarming Lap-Band Failure Rates

Multiple studies have documented unacceptably high Lap-Band complication and failure rates:

Study 1: Nearly Half Need Reoperation

Research published in the Archives of Surgery followed 82 patients for at least 12 years after Lap-Band surgery. The findings were shocking:

• 49 of 82 patients (60%) had at least one reoperation for complications or device failure

• 41 patients (50%) had their bands removed

• 14 patients required conversion to gastric bypass after band removal

• 32 patients (39%) suffered major complications

Despite these alarming failure rates, 60% of patients still reported being pleased or very pleased with the original procedure, highlighting the desperation of patients struggling with obesity.

Study 2: One-Third Experience Late Complications

A 10-year study of 317 Lap-Band patients found:

• 105 patients (33.1%) developed late complications

• Band erosion occurred in 9.5% of patients

• Pouch dilation/slippage in 6.3%

• Port or catheter problems in 7.6%

• Major reoperation required in 21.7% of patients

• Failure rates increased over time: 13.2% at 18 months → 23.8% at 3 years → 31.5% at 5 years → 36.9% at 7 years

Study 3: UCLA Health Reports Over Half Need Removal

According to UCLA Health, more than half of all Lap-Band patients eventually need band removal due to complications or inadequate weight loss after 7-10 years.

The evidence is clear: Lap-Band complications are common, not rare.

What Compensation Can a Lap-Band Lawsuit Recover?

Our Syracuse Lap-Band lawsuit attorneys pursue maximum compensation:

• Band removal surgery and hospitalisation

• Multiple revision surgeries for complications

• Conversion to gastric bypass or sleeve (if applicable)

• Treatment for erosion, slippage, or infection

• Nutritional counselling and supplementation

• Treatment for esophageal damage

• Long-term medical monitoring

Lost Wages and Income

• Time off work for multiple surgeries and recovery

• Lost income during extended illness

• Reduced earning capacity if complications prevent working

Pain and Suffering

• Chronic pain from complications

• Inability to eat normally for months or years

• Severe nausea and vomiting affecting daily life

• Emotional distress from failed weight loss surgery

• Depression and anxiety

• Weight regain and associated health problems

• Loss of enjoyment of life

Who Can Be Held Liable?

Our Lap-Band injury attorneys pursue all responsible parties:

• Lap-Band manufacturers (Apollo Endosurgery, Allergan)

• Component manufacturers, if defective parts caused failure

• Surgeons and hospitals if improper placement contributed to complications

Why Choose Gillette & Izzo for Your Lap-Band Case?

Our Syracuse bariatric device injury lawyers offer:

✓ Extensive experience: Decades of handling complex medical device cases

✓ Medical expert network: We work with bariatric surgeons and gastroenterologists

✓ Proven track record: Over $30 million recovered for injured clients

✓ Compassionate representation: We understand the physical and emotional challenges

✓ Free consultation: No-obligation case evaluation

✓ Contingency representation: No upfront costs, no fees unless we win

✓ Personalized attention: Direct access to experienced attorneys

Statute of Limitations for Lap-Band Claims

New York law imposes strict time limits:

• 3 years from the discovery of the injury (personal injury claims)

• 2 years from death (wrongful death claims)

Act now. Many complications develop years after surgery. The sooner you contact our Lap-Band lawyers, the better we can preserve evidence and build your case.

Contact Us About How A Dangerous Or Defective Medical Product Harmed You

We provide a free consultation with an experienced defective medical products attorney in Syracuse, New York. To schedule an appointment with Gillette & Izzo Law Office, complete our intake form or call 315-421-1000. We represent all clients injured by a dangerous or defective medical product on a contingency basis. You do not owe any legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.