Inclusion Criteria:

• Be at least 14 and less than 18 years of age at the time of enrollment into the study.
• Have a BMI of at least 40
• Have a history of obesity for at least 5 years, including failed attempts at diet and medical management of obesity.
• Confirmation by a psychologist or psychiatrist experienced with adolescents that the subject is sufficiently mature emotionally to comply with the study protocol. Express willingness to follow protocol requirements.
• Assure investigators that subject, if female of childbearing potential, is using an appropriate form of contraception.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Intention or need to have another surgical procedure for weight reduction within 12 months of Lap Band placement.
• History of congenital or acquired anomalies of the G.I. tract, such as; congenital or acquired intestinal telangiectasia, Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis; severe cardiopulmonary disease or severe coagulapathy; hepatic insufficiency or cirrhosis.
• Presence of dysphagia or documented esophageal dysmotility.
• Patients with autoimmune connective tissue disorders
• Patients with acute abdominal infections
• Pregnancy or intention of becoming pregnant in the next 12 months.
• Presence of psychiatric problems or immaturity which would compromise cooperation with the study protocol.
• History of previous bariatric surgery, intestinal obstruction or adhesive peritonitis.
• Presence of localized or systemic infection at the time of surgery.
• Chronic use of aspirin and/or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and unwillingness to discontinue the use of these concomitant medications.
• History of gastric or esophageal surgery.
• Use of weigh loss medications simultaneously