Aims Gastric bypass and vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) are currently the most commonly performed bariatric procedures but neither are ideal. The results of the first 56 patients who had laparoscopic Swedish adjustable gastric banding (SAGB) are presented. Methods All patients referred for bariatric surgery were considered for SAGB. Each was given the alternative of gastric bypass. Patients with a body mass index of less than 35, large hiatus hernia, under 18 years of age, gastric pathology and significant psychiatric illness were excluded. Preoperative gastroscopy, ultrasonographic examination of the gallbladder and specialist anaesthetic assessment were arranged. All but five patients had attempted laparoscopic procedures. Patients were discharged when they were mobile and could tolerate 1500 ml fluid per day. Patients were given a liquidized diet for 6 weeks. Assessments were made at 6 weeks and 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Results Some 56 consecutive patients were followed for up to 12 months. The conversion rate fell from 52 per cent for the first 25 patients to 20 per cent for the last 20. Conversion rates were higher in men and in superobese patients. The duration of a laparoscopic operation fell significantly with experience but was still significantly longer than that of an open procedure (P < 0·004). The length of hospital stay was significantly shorter for laparoscopic procedures (P < 0·001). There was no death and little morbidity. Two bands had to be removed (easily) by open surgery, one for infection and one for a recurrence of gastric herniation. The mean excess weight loss was 60 per cent at 12 months. Greater than 50 per cent of excess body-weight was lost by 48 per cent of patients at 6 months and 69 per cent at 12 months. Band adjustments in most patients achieved further weight loss to compensate for late pouch dilatation. Most failures were in patients who failed to attend. Conclusions SAGB appears to have many advantages over gastric bypass and VBG; it avoids stapling the stomach, should not cause any malabsorption, can be performed laparoscopically, is adjustable, is more readily reversed (if necessary) and, therefore, has the potential for lower associated morbidity and mortality rates. In terms of excess weight loss, the early results are certainly as good, if not better, than those of gastric bypass and VBG.