The Lap Band is meant to provide long-term weight loss through a permanent reduction in your capacity to eat large portions. You will feel comfortably full with a small amount of food. Laparoscopic placement of an adjustable gastric band around the stomach creates a small upper pouch in which food is funneled slowly through a narrowed passage into the large lower portion of the stomach where digestion takes place in a normal fashion. Due to the slower emptying of your pouch, you will continue to feel full longer, which reduces the urge to eat between scheduled meals and snacks.