What is SILS?

Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS) is an advanced minimally invasive surgical procedure in which the surgeon operates exclusively through a single entry point instead of the traditional four or more laparoscopic incisions. This is the same procedure as the traditional surgery with the one incision being the main difference. Many times this incision can be hidden within the belly button so patients are truly left with a no visible scars.

SILS procedures require an experienced surgeon who is highly skilled in laparoscopic surgery. Procedures that can be performed through a SILS approach include Lap Band surgery, sleeve gastrectomy, gallbladder surgery, colon surgery, and hernia surgery. Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery leaves the patient with less scarring, the potential for less post-operative pain, quicker recovery time and reduced risk of wound site infections.

All patients are not candidates for this approach. The determination depends on many factors including the size of the liver, Body Mass Index (BMI) and previous surgeries. This will all be discussed during a patient’s initial consultation. Results can vary and are not guaranteed even for patients determined to be candidates before the surgery.

Dr. Paul Enochs is the leading expert nationwide in the SILS Lap Band procedure. He performed North Carolina’s first SILS Lap Band, and has performed to date more SILS Lap Bands than any other surgeon in the country. He is the national spokesperson and proctor for the SILS Lap Band and has travelled the country instructing and training surgeons in his procedure. In addition to Dr. Enochs, there are currently very few surgeons in the country that are fully trained in this technique.

Please call us at the office if you have any further questions about the SILS Lap Band procedure or to schedule your initial evaluation.