What is Gastric Band Surgery?
The gastric band is a small silicone band placed around the top of the stomach. The band is tightened or loosened by injecting water into it. The great appeal of the band is that it does not involve any cutting of the stomach and for this reason, it is reversible (not that we expect or plan to reverse it).
How Does Gastric Band Surgery Work?
It works by changing the way in which food passes through the stomach. Essentially, when you eat foods of the right texture, the top of the stomach will ‘squeeze’ that food through the band into the larger empty stomach below. When you eat slowly, and the band encourages this slower eating, you will feel satisfied with a smaller portion of food.
Your surgery provider should give you a lot of advice on how to get the most from your band procedure, including dietary advice, tips on eating behaviours and regular clinic reviews. The band will need to be adjusted and you should plan on 4 – 6 adjustments over the first couple of years of having it. Contact one of our surgeons today to get more information on gastric band aftercare requirements and discover in greater detail the procedure and how it works.
How Much Weight Will I Lose With Gastric Band Surgery?
In the best centres weight loss with the gastric band averages about 50% of your excess weight. This is achieved over the first two years and most of this weight loss is retained for the longer term.
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What is the Hospital Stay and Recovery For Gastric Band Surgery?
One of the attractions of the band is that it’s a day case procedure for most people. As it is minimally invasive you can also expect a fast recovery. Some patients report they feel well enough to return to work in just a few days. Contact us today to get more post-procedure information for the gastric band.
Other Considerations For Gastric Band Surgery?
The main consideration for band patients is whether they will be able to comply with the diet and eating habits required for success. If you believe that you can, the band is the safest surgical option and very effective.
IMPORTANT – Patients with higher BMI (45+) might do better with the gastric sleeve or the gastric bypass. Also, those with weight-related health problems will see quicker benefits with other procedures. To get the best possible advice on which procedure is best for you, contact us today by using the form below.