When searching for the right lap band surgery center, you want to find someone who is knowledgeable and has plenty of experience. You may wander how the procedure works. A sequence of small incisions are made in the abdomen. A laparoscope (optical telescope) is inserted and used to lead the surgeon through as he or she puts the gastric band around the upper part of the stomach right beneath the esophagus forming a small pouch. This causes the upper stomach to get full easier so the patient eats less and loses weight.